• Bitcoin’s price is trading at nearly $104,000 and is close to reaching its all-time high of $109,300.
• Supply to centralized exchanges has dropped to 2.17 million BTC, the lowest level in over six years.
• Over-the-counter desks now hold only 120,000 BTC, which has significantly declined from late 2021.
• Spot Bitcoin ETFs have accumulated over $40 billion in assets since January last year, supporting strong demand.
• Corporations like Strategy now hold large Bitcoin reserves, encouraging more firms to follow their lead.

Bitcoin price traded steadily near $104,000 this week as market participants prepared for a potential breakout. A narrowing supply of Bitcoin across exchanges and OTC desks has created conditions that could spark a sharp upward move. With demand surging and supply shrinking, Bitcoin price now approaches its all-time high of $109,300 with strong technical backing.

Bitcoin Price Rises Amid Shrinking Exchange Supply

Bitcoin price continues to gain strength as available supply on exchanges hits the lowest level in over six years. Centralized exchanges currently hold 2.17 million BTC, down from 2.72 million in January 2024. This drop limits sell-side pressure and could support a strong upward move in Bitcoin price.

Over-the-counter desks have also seen a reduction in available Bitcoin, signaling reduced liquidity for large off-exchange transactions. OTC supply has fallen to 120,000 BTC, a steep drop from nearly 500,000 BTC in late 2021. This tightening market may help sustain momentum as Bitcoin price targets a new record.

This chart doesn’t lie.

Bitcoin OTC liquidity is drying up fast.

Sellers are gone. Supply shock is coming.

How high do you think $BTC goes in 2025? pic.twitter.com/hciqWSrg4h

— Merlijn The Trader (@MerlijnTrader) May 16, 2025

The declining supply aligns with increased market activity and larger inflows into long-term holdings. This shift in Bitcoin distribution reduces immediate selling potential and builds a solid case for further price gains. The reduced supply across all major platforms strengthens Bitcoin price resilience.

Bitcoin Price Climbs on Strong Institutional Buying

Institutional activity remains a key driver behind the current Bitcoin price movement. Since early last year, Spot Bitcoin ETFs have attracted over $40 billion in assets, boosting overall demand. These funds accumulate large amounts of Bitcoin, applying upward pressure on the market.

Corporations have also joined the trend, with companies like Strategy holding 568,500 BTC worth about $59 billion. Strategy now owns approximately 2.7% of the total Bitcoin supply, setting a strong precedent. Other firms like Next Technology and Metaplanet have followed with steady acquisitions.

As more companies observe the benefits of these holdings, broader corporate adoption may accelerate. Strategy’s market value has surged from $1 billion to $115 billion since 2020, showing the impact of Bitcoin’s exposure. These moves add consistent long-term demand supporting the ongoing Bitcoin price climb.

Chart Patterns Point to Bitcoin Surge

Bitcoin’s price is consolidating within a bullish pennant pattern, forming just under resistance near $108,420. This formation indicates continuation in a broader uptrend, supported by a strong market structure. The price also forms a cup and handle pattern, adding further bullish confirmation.

The 50-day and 100-day Exponential Moving Averages are trending upward, reinforcing short-term strength. This alignment suggests sustained momentum, with the BTC price poised to challenge its historical peak. A successful breakout could push the price beyond $110,000, a significant psychological barrier.

If Bitcoin price breaks past the $109,300 level, it could attract additional buying activity and reinforce positive sentiment. The consolidation below the resistance appears orderly, increasing the probability of a breakout. As supply dries and demand holds firm, BTC price may set a new record high soon.

The post Bitcoin Price Nears Breakout as Supply Hits Record Low Levels appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Méliuz has become Brazil’s first publicly traded company to adopt Bitcoin in its treasury.
• The company purchased 274.52 BTC for $28.4 million at an average price of $103,604 per coin.
• Méliuz now holds a 320.3 BTC, currently valued at over $33 million.
• Shareholders approved the plan to transform Méliuz into a Bitcoin treasury corporation on May 15.
• The company aims to increase Bitcoin per share using structured financial strategies and cash generation.

Brazil-based fintech company Méliuz has officially adopted Bitcoin as part of its treasury strategy, acquiring BTC worth $28.4 million. The company confirmed it now holds 320.3 BTC, making it the first public company in Brazil to take this step. This decision positions Méliuz at the center of Brazil’s growing corporate crypto adoption landscape.

Brazil’s Méliuz Embraces Bitcoin Treasury Model

On May 15, Méliuz held a general shareholder meeting to vote on a Bitcoin-focused corporate strategy. The shareholders decided to transform the company into a Bitcoin treasury corporation. The majority supported the motion, enabling Méliuz to begin aligning its business model with Bitcoin accumulation.

This marks a new direction for the Brazil-based company, as it reorients its financial priorities toward digital asset growth. Méliuz announced it will maximize Bitcoin per share through internal structures and capital reallocation. The strategy includes using revenue streams and financial tools to grow its BTC reserves efficiently.

Méliuz’s leadership views this transition as a core operational shift, not just a hedge against Brazil’s inflation and currency instability. The firm plans to gradually increase BTC holdings using available liquidity and structured capital management. The strategy reflects a broader movement among firms in Brazil, incorporating digital assets into their long-term planning.

Details of the Bitcoin Purchase

Méliuz reported that it acquired 274.52 BTC at an average price of $103,604 per coin, for a total of $28.4 million. This increased its total BTC holdings to 320.3. The company confirmed that the current market value of its Bitcoin is over $33 million.

Historic day! Our shareholders have approved, by a wide majority, the transformation of Méliuz into the first Bitcoin Treasury Company listed in Brazil.

And today, we took another step forward:
Acquired 274.52 BTC for US$ 28.4M
Average price: US$ 103,604
Achieving a BTC Yield of… pic.twitter.com/y12JlKwW6N

— Israel Salmen (@IsraelSalmen) May 15, 2025

The first BTC purchase occurred on March 6, 2025, when Méliuz bought 45.73 BTC as a strategic entry. With this initial step, Brazil’s Méliuz laid the groundwork for a more aggressive Bitcoin accumulation plan. Future acquisitions will continue based on structured financial planning and BTC market conditions.

Méliuz has clarified that all BTC purchases will support shareholder value while aligning with Brazil’s financial reporting standards. The firm aims to optimize Bitcoin treasury growth while maintaining compliance and transparency. It will track BTC performance and adjust its strategy based on macroeconomic and company-specific factors.

Wider Crypto Industry BTC Buying Trends

Méliuz joins a growing list of companies worldwide adopting Bitcoin as a treasury asset amid rising corporate interest. In the United States, DayDayCook disclosed a BTC purchase of 100 coins with plans to reach 5,000 BTC in three years. This trend underscores companies restructuring capital around Bitcoin to protect against fiat depreciation.

Bahrain-based Abraaj Restaurants Group became the first public company to adopt Bitcoin with a 5 BTC purchase in the Middle East. These moves signal a broader shift toward crypto integration in treasury functions across multiple regions. As Bitcoin gains institutional trust, more Brazil-based companies may follow Méliuz’s example.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s business sector continues to monitor these developments while adjusting to the evolving crypto landscape. As BTC prices remain above $104,000, speculation grows about Bitcoin’s long-term role in corporate finance. Méliuz’s bold move sets a precedent for public companies in Brazil embracing digital asset strategies.

The post Brazil Fintech Giant Méliuz Stuns with Bold Bitcoin Treasury Plan appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Bitcoin has climbed above $104K, growing more than 20% over the last month
• Global institutional investors now appear to be driving the rally, replacing Korean retail traders
• Small investors have increased their participation by 3.4% since late April
• The Exchange Stablecoins Ratio has reached 5.3, potentially indicating selling pressure
• Technical indicators still point to continued bullish momentum despite caution signals

Bitcoin has pushed through the $104,000 price barrier, marking another milestone in its 2025 price action. The cryptocurrency is showing impressive strength with over 20% growth in the past month, even with a minor 0.4% pullback in recent 24-hour trading.

Market data reveals an interesting shift in the forces propelling Bitcoin’s current rally. This isn’t just another price increase – it represents a fundamental change in who’s buying.

According to research from CryptoQuant, the traditional “Korea Premium” – a measure that tracks price differences between Korean exchanges and global platforms – has been trending downward despite Bitcoin’s rising price.

This decline suggests something important about the current market structure. The rally isn’t being fueled by Korean retail traders as in previous cycles but instead by institutional investors from other markets.

The Korea Premium was a famous indicator during the 2017 and 2021 bull runs. During those periods, Bitcoin often traded up to 20% higher on Korean exchanges due to intense local demand.

Market Maturity Signs

This changing dynamic points to a maturing cryptocurrency market. As analyst Avocado Onchain explains, this represents a new phase in how capital flows through the crypto ecosystem.

The launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States has created new channels for institutional money to enter the market. Corporate treasuries and even sovereign funds are showing greater interest in Bitcoin exposure.

These developments have altered the trading landscape. Institutional strategies now drive more market activity than retail speculation – a stark contrast to previous bull markets.

Even as Bitcoin broke through major resistance levels in recent months, the Korea Premium remained subdued. This confirms the shift away from retail-driven price action that characterized earlier cycles.

The analyst notes that in the current market environment, any Korea Premium approaching 10% should be considered high. For context, this level would have been viewed as moderate during previous bull runs.

This absence of regional premiums shows that Asian retail traders no longer set the pace for Bitcoin markets. Instead, global institutions with access to specialized investment vehicles are leading the charge.

Retail Investors Return

While institutions dominate the current rally, smaller investors aren’t sitting on the sidelines. On-chain data shows retail participants – those with wallets holding under $10,000 in Bitcoin – are gradually increasing their market presence.

CryptoQuant analyst Carmelo Aleman tracked this trend using the BTC: Retail Investor 30-Day Change indicator. This metric turned positive on April 28 and has since shown a 3.4% increase in retail buying through mid-May.

Though retail investors typically don’t time markets as effectively as institutions, their behavior remains an important barometer for market sentiment. Their increasing participation creates a positive feedback loop that strengthens bullish market narratives.

Aleman suggests monitoring several other on-chain metrics alongside retail activity. Active addresses, UTXO count, new wallet creation, and transfer volume all tend to increase when retail interest grows.

These smaller investors often diversify into other crypto assets once they enter the market. This pattern could benefit the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem as the retail wave expands.

Warning Signals Emerge

Despite the optimistic indicators, some warning signs have appeared. The Exchange Stablecoins Ratio recently hit 5.3 as Bitcoin approached $104,000.

This metric compares Bitcoin reserves on exchanges to stablecoin balances. The current reading suggests that BTC reserves now exceed stablecoin reserves – a potential indicator of building selling pressure.

According to CryptoQuant contributor EgyHash, readings above 5.0 often precede market corrections. A similar spike to 6.1 in January was followed by a price pullback, suggesting investors might be converting Bitcoin positions back to cash.

However, Bitcoin continues to display bullish momentum on many technical indicators. The Stochastic RSI shows renewed strength, suggesting the upward trend could continue.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin trades at $103,993, maintaining its overall upward trajectory despite these mixed signals.

The post Bitcoin (BTC) Price Prediction & Analysis: Around $103K as Retail Investors Return to the Market appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Nebraska Introduces Excise Tax on Crypto Mining
• Public Power Districts Granted Authority Over Mining Infrastructure
• Grid Impact Studies Mandated Before Imposing Costs
• Tax Applies Exclusively to Cryptocurrency Mining
• Marathon Digital Holdings’ Operations Potentially Affected

Nebraska introduces grid-focused rules for Bitcoin miners after lawmakers passed a bill to oversee power use in mining operations. The bill, LB 526, brings new infrastructure and reporting requirements without placing outright limits on mining activity. The vote passed unanimously, indicating growing interest in energy-focused crypto regulation across the U.S.

LB 526 Targets Energy Use in Crypto Mining

Nebraska introduces grid-focused rules for Bitcoin miners through LB 526, a bill awaiting the governor’s signature. The legislation requires large-scale miners to fund electrical infrastructure upgrades if their operations burden the state’s power grid. It also mandates miners to report energy consumption and allows authorities to interrupt services during peak demand.

🚨 The Nebraska Legislature just passed a bill to regulate Bitcoin miners.

LB 526 requires large miners to cover the cost of infrastructure upgrades, requires miners to report energy usage, and permits authorities to interrupt service.

The bill passed unanimously 49-0 pic.twitter.com/BINPNaQ0VB

— Bitcoin Laws (@Bitcoin_Laws) May 14, 2025

The bill does not address emissions or environmental concerns, focusing solely on grid stability and electricity supply. This follows patterns in states like Texas, where crypto mining strained grids and triggered outages. Nebraska’s approach mirrors that concern while maintaining a moderate stance toward digital asset innovation.

With rising temperatures and increased electricity demand in the summer months, regulators aim to prevent brownouts and blackouts. Mining operations often run 24/7, consuming large volumes of electricity, which stresses local utilities. The bill balances crypto growth with stable power delivery for residential and commercial users.

Marathon’s Role in the State’s Mining Sector

Marathon Digital Holdings remains the only major mining company operating in Nebraska under the new grid-focused framework. Earlier this year, Marathon completed upgrades at its facility in Kearney, aiming to improve efficiency and output. Its operations may serve as a model for how firms respond to infrastructure regulations.

The Nebraska bill may impact Marathon’s cost structure, especially with added obligations tied to power grid contributions. However, it does not restrict expansion or prohibit future installations, which keeps the state open for business. Marathon’s strategy includes hardware enhancements and direct Bitcoin purchases to strengthen its portfolio.

Given shrinking mining profits and high power demands, new rules could shift Marathon’s future development in Nebraska. The firm has yet to release a formal response, but its actions may set the tone for industry compliance. Large miners may need to optimize energy use to maintain operational margins as regulatory clarity improves.

Broader Impact on U.S. Crypto Regulation

Nebraska introduces grid-focused rules for Bitcoin miners while other states consider stricter approaches or outright bans. The Nebraska model promotes moderate regulation by supporting the industry while protecting power infrastructure. This legislation may influence similar bills in neighboring states looking to manage mining activities.

Lawmakers chose not to limit Bitcoin mining directly, signaling a preference for utility-based governance rather than environmental enforcement. The bill’s unanimous support reflects bipartisan agreement on regulating energy-heavy industries without halting innovation. This stance contrasts sharply with aggressive measures passed elsewhere, especially in the Southwest.

As more crypto firms expand across the U.S., state-level legislation like Nebraska’s could guide long-term regulatory frameworks. Transparent reporting and infrastructure costs could become standard across jurisdictions. The bill now awaits final approval from Governor Jim Pillen, who has praised crypto as an emerging economic sector.

The post Nebraska Introduces Grid-Focused Rules for Bitcoin Miners appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Ukraine is preparing a law to establish a national strategic Bitcoin reserve.
• The draft law is being finalized by the Finance and Tax Committee.
• Ukraine plans to submit the legislation to parliament in the near future.
• Binance is actively supporting Ukraine’s efforts to develop the Bitcoin reserve.
• The reserve initiative is part of Ukraine’s broader crypto regulatory strategy.

Ukraine is preparing to introduce legislation establishing a national strategic Bitcoin reserve. This initiative is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to develop a legal foundation for digital assets. The draft law is nearing completion and will soon be submitted to parliament.

Ukraine Advances Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Plan

Ukraine is developing a legal framework for holding Bitcoin in its national reserves. A specialized parliamentary committee, led by finance officials, is finalizing the draft legislation. This effort follows earlier legislative attempts that were withdrawn due to regulatory pushback.

Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a senior lawmaker, confirmed Ukraine’s plan to create a crypto reserve infrastructure. He oversees the preparation of draft laws within the finance and tax committee. The proposal includes provisions to regulate how the state may acquire, store, and manage Bitcoin reserves.

Ukraine seeks to align the initiative with upcoming crypto regulations expected in 2025. The law would support holding digital assets and their use in national financial planning. Authorities aim to secure transparency, compliance, and oversight from the central bank and regulatory agencies.

Binance Supports Ukraine’s Bitcoin Reserve Development

Ukraine is reportedly receiving support from Binance to build its national Bitcoin reserve. The collaboration includes guidance on reserve mechanisms and technical infrastructure. Binance has been working with several governments on similar crypto reserve projects.

The extent of Binance’s cooperation with Ukraine has not been fully disclosed. However, both parties are involved in active discussions regarding implementing the reserve strategy. Binance’s global partnerships have positioned the company as a key advisor for crypto integration in public policy.

Richard Teng, Binance CEO, has stated that many governments are exploring Bitcoin reserves. His team has participated in advisory roles with other countries in the region. Ukraine benefits from these partnerships as they accelerate efforts to legislate and build digital asset reserves.

Revised Crypto Bill Gains New Momentum in Ukraine

Ukraine plans to finalize a comprehensive digital asset law in coordination with the National Bank and the IMF. This law will create fiscal policies, regulate exchanges, and enforce anti–money laundering measures. Lawmakers intend to pass the bill in early 2025.

The draft bill includes capital gains taxation on crypto converted to fiat currencies. It will also define legal responsibilities for market participants and state institutions. Ukraine aims to standardize crypto activities and ensure legal clarity for all digital transactions.

Earlier versions of the legislation faced delays due to internal concerns from the President’s Office. Financial regulators, including the National Securities and Stock Market Commission, also resisted. Ukraine has since revised the proposal to address these concerns and move forward confidently.

The post Ukraine to Launch Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Under New Crypto Law Plan appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Strategy holds more than 568,000 Bitcoin valued at approximately 59 billion dollars.
• The company raised 12 billion dollars in just 50 days in late 2024 to increase its Bitcoin reserves.
• Strategy announced a new plan to raise 84 billion dollars through equity and debt to buy additional Bitcoin.
• Michael Saylor expects Strategy to grow into a multi-trillion-dollar company through continued Bitcoin accumulation.
• Strategy is currently ranked as the 151st largest public company with a market capitalization of 117 billion dollars.

Strategy has gained global attention following bold claims from within the company about its potential to become the world’s top public stock. The firm, led by executive chairman Michael Saylor, has heavily invested in Bitcoin and expanded its capital-raising activities. A recent Financial Times documentary highlights how Strategy’s unprecedented Bitcoin exposure may position it above current leaders like Microsoft.

Strategy Owns Over 560k BTC

Strategy currently holds 568,840 BTC, with a market value of approximately $59 billion based on current prices. The firm has strategically used equity and debt to build the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin reserve. Its holdings significantly surpass those of any other publicly traded company.

The company raised $12 billion in capital in just 50 days during late 2024, reflecting strong market interest. All funds were directly allocated to Bitcoin purchases, intensifying its exposure to the digital asset. According to internal analysis, this gives Strategy a long-term advantage over its peers.

Michael Saylor supports this direction by outlining a plan for exponential enterprise growth. He has set long-term milestones aiming to scale Strategy’s valuation into trillions. The company is now capitalizing on Bitcoin’s price surge, which recently surpassed $104,000.

Strategy Expands Capital Plan for More Bitcoin

Strategy has announced a plan to raise $84 billion to increase its Bitcoin holdings further. This includes an additional $21 billion in common stock issuance beyond an already completed program. The firm also expanded its debt issuance capacity to $42 billion, with $14.6 billion still available.

This expansion supports the Strategy’s broader vision of securing more Bitcoin while leveraging traditional finance tools. By increasing both equity and debt offerings, the Strategy continues to attract significant capital inflows. Its approach signals confidence in Bitcoin’s role as a long-term corporate asset.

The company’s current market capitalization is $117 billion, placing it 151st among global public companies. However, analysts like Jeff Walton believe Bitcoin could propel Strategy to the top position. The Strategy must surpass Microsoft, valued at over $3.3 trillion to achieve this.

Public Companies Ramp Up Bitcoin Exposure

Other public firms are also increasing Bitcoin allocations, highlighting a broader trend. Metaplanet recently purchased 1,241 BTC, raising its total to 6,796 BTC worth over $706 million. The move reflects a strong corporate interest in Bitcoin acquisitions.

Meanwhile, GD Culture Group Limited announced a plan to raise $300 million through a stock offering. The funds will go toward acquiring Bitcoin and Trump Coin ($TRUMP), despite Nasdaq delisting risks. This development further underscores the rising adoption of Bitcoin among public firms.

Publicly listed companies grew their collective Bitcoin holdings by 16.1% in Q1 2025. This growth indicates a steady shift toward Bitcoin as a balance sheet asset.

The post Analyst Predicts Strategy May Surpass Microsoft With Bitcoin Bet appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Bitcoin trading at $104,271, up over 10% in past week, approaching $109,000 all-time high
• US and China agreed to reduce tariffs for a 90-day period, easing global trade tensions
• Taker Buy-Sell Ratio at 1.02, a level that has marked important price turning points before
• Lower-than-expected US inflation figures increase chances of Federal Reserve rate cuts
• Altcoins outperforming Bitcoin with Ethereum up 8.7% and Dogecoin surging 9.5%

Bitcoin has pushed past the $104,000 mark, continuing its upward trajectory following a substantial price increase over the last seven days. The top cryptocurrency is now trading at $104,271, placing it within striking distance of its all-time high of $109,000.

The recent price action comes as global markets react to improving macroeconomic conditions. At the forefront is a temporary truce in the ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China.

Under the new agreement, the US will cut its tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%. China will respond by reducing its retaliatory tariffs from 125% to 10%. These changes will remain in effect for a 90-day period.

This cooling of trade tensions has sparked renewed investor confidence across various asset classes. Both traditional markets and cryptocurrencies have benefited from this shift in sentiment.

The weekend saw Bitcoin gain momentum as traders digested the implications of the trade agreement. Technical analysis points to increased buying pressure that could sustain the current rally.

On-Chain Metrics Point to Bullish Outlook

Market analysts have highlighted a key indicator that suggests further upside for Bitcoin. The Taker Buy-Sell Ratio, which tracks the relationship between market buy and sell orders, has reached 1.02.

This particular metric has proven reliable at identifying major market shifts in the past. Similar readings were recorded during the market bottom in late 2022 when Bitcoin traded between $15,000 and $20,000.

The same indicator also flashed before Bitcoin broke above $30,000 in October 2023. Analysts interpret the current reading as a sign that buyers are taking more aggressive positions in the market.

This uptick in buying activity indicates that market participants who are willing to pay the asking price are gaining control. This type of market behavior often precedes continued price appreciation.

Some experts note that while this signal points to potential gains, it has also appeared during periods of increased volatility. These conditions have marked both the beginning and end of previous trends.

Another metric reinforcing the positive outlook is Bitcoin’s realized price. This measure calculates the average price at which all Bitcoin in circulation was last moved.

The realized price continues its upward trend, showing that investors are comfortable buying at progressively higher prices. This pattern contrasts with previous market cycles where realized price reversals preceded major corrections.

Economic Factors Support Crypto Rally

Recent economic data has added to the constructive environment for cryptocurrencies. The latest US Consumer Price Index (CPI) report came in below market expectations.

This softer inflation reading has reduced fears about the potential price impacts of trade tariffs. It has also strengthened the case for potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve.

The prospect of lower interest rates typically benefits risk assets like cryptocurrencies. However, market watchers caution that the Fed remains cautious about inflation risks.

Economic analysts believe the central bank will require clear evidence of economic slowdown before implementing rate cuts. The Fed continues to prioritize its inflation-fighting mandate over short-term growth concerns.

Despite this cautious approach from the Fed, the crypto market has responded positively to the improving economic outlook. Bitcoin’s gains have been outpaced by several altcoins.

Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, jumped 8.7% to reach $2,667.30. XRP posted a 3.6% increase, bringing its price to $2.5869.

Other altcoins showed even stronger performance. Solana rose by 7%, while Cardano gained 4.8%. Polygon added 6% to its value.

The meme coin sector saw some of the largest moves. Dogecoin surged 9.5%, and Trump-themed token $TRUMP increased by 8.4%.

The post Bitcoin (BTC) Price: New ATH Soon? Moves Higher After Softer US Inflation Data appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Twenty One Capital has purchased 4,812 Bitcoin at approximately $95,319 per token
• The $458.7 million acquisition brings the company’s total holdings to 36,312 BTC
• The firm now ranks as the third-largest corporate Bitcoin holder globally
• The purchase is linked to an ongoing SPAC merger with Cantor Equity Partners
• CEO Jack Mallers aims to create a “superior vehicle” for Bitcoin exposure

Bitcoin investment firm Twenty One Capital has expanded its cryptocurrency holdings with a major new acquisition. The company added 4,812 Bitcoin to its treasury through a transaction executed by its major backer, Tether.

This purchase, valued at approximately $458.7 million, was revealed in a May 13 filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The Bitcoin was acquired at an average price of $95,319 per token on May 9.

The transaction involved Tether transferring the newly purchased Bitcoin to an escrow wallet. This forms part of a private investment in public equity (PIPE) arrangement tied to Twenty One Capital’s ongoing Special Purpose Acquisition Company merger.

Cantor Equity Partners, Inc aka Jack Mallers' Twenty One Capital files 8-K with the #SEC announcing first purchase by @Tether_to of 4,812 #Bitcoin worth $458.7 million at average price of $95,319.83.@twentyone21___ @cantorfitzgerld

On April 22, 2025, Cantor Equity Partners,… pic.twitter.com/IdtKw8Pd0Y

— MartyParty (@martypartymusic) May 13, 2025

With this addition, Twenty One Capital’s Bitcoin holdings have grown to 36,312 BTC. This places the firm third in the rankings of corporate Bitcoin holders worldwide.

Only Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) with 568,840 BTC and MARA Holdings with 48,237 BTC hold larger amounts. The gap between these companies highlights the scale of investment flowing into corporate Bitcoin treasuries.

Twenty One Capital was co-founded in April 2025 by three major backers. These include stablecoin issuer Tether, cryptocurrency exchange Bitfinex, and Japanese technology investor SoftBank.

Market Impact and Corporate Strategy

The purchase comes at an interesting time for Bitcoin prices. The cryptocurrency has been trading around $103,540, close to its all-time high of approximately $109,000.

Market analysts are watching closely for a potential breakout. The recent Consumer Price Index data showed lower-than-expected inflation, which some experts believe could create favorable conditions for Bitcoin’s next upward move.

Twenty One Capital’s SPAC merger is being facilitated through Cantor Equity Partners. This Cayman Islands-based entity is affiliated with the Wall Street firm Cantor Fitzgerald.

When the merger completes, Twenty One Capital will trade under the ticker symbol “XXI” on public markets. Currently, it trades as CEP (Cantor Equity Partners).

The market has reacted strongly to news of the Bitcoin purchase. CEP shares experienced extreme volatility, surging from $10.65 to $59.73 before settling at $29.84.

After the recent SEC filing was made public, the stock gained an additional 5.2% in after-hours trading. This demonstrates the market’s sensitivity to Bitcoin-related corporate actions.

According to earlier filings, Twenty One Capital aims to debut with at least 42,000 Bitcoin in its treasury. The plan calls for Tether to contribute 23,950 BTC, SoftBank to provide 10,500 BTC, and Bitfinex to supply around 7,000 BTC.

These Bitcoin holdings will be converted into company shares at a price of $10 each. This structure aligns with the firm’s goal of measuring performance through “Bitcoin per share” rather than traditional metrics.

At the helm of Twenty One Capital is Jack Mallers, founder of the Bitcoin payments application Strike. Mallers has been a vocal advocate for Bitcoin adoption and has worked extensively on Lightning Network payment solutions.

Mallers has described the new venture as a stock “built by Bitcoiners, for Bitcoiners.” He has outlined plans for the company to develop Bitcoin-native financial products including lending tools and capital market offerings.

In April statements, Mallers positioned Twenty One Capital as a future competitor to Strategy. The company stated its intention to become a “superior vehicle” for capital-efficient Bitcoin exposure.

Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, has also commented on the venture. He views it as a long-term investment in Bitcoin’s institutional relevance and value proposition.

“Twenty One will take a Bitcoin-first approach that aligns with our vision—prioritizing accumulation over speculation and building long-term value for those who understand what Bitcoin represents,” Ardoino said last month.

Cantor Fitzgerald serves as both sponsor and advisor to the merger. The firm has raised $585 million to fund future Bitcoin purchases, demonstrating substantial institutional backing for the venture.

The post Tether-Backed Twenty One Capital Expands Bitcoin Holdings With $458.7M Purchase appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Twenty One Capital makes first move with a $459 million Bitcoin purchase
• Tether buys and will transfer 4,812 BTC to Twenty One after merger
• Company will hold over 42,000 BTC placing it among top public holders
• Led by Jack Mallers with backing from Tether, Bitfinex and SoftBank
• Bitcoin price nears all-time high as Twenty One prepares Nasdaq debut

The Bitcoin investment firm, Twenty One Capital, made its first move by acquiring 4,812 BTC for $458.7 million. The purchase positions the company among the largest Bitcoin-holding public firms. The deal marks the start of a planned series of acquisitions designed to reinforce its Bitcoin-focused treasury model.

🚨BREAKING: Jack Mallers Twenty One Capital acquires 4,812 #Bitcoin worth $458M 💪 pic.twitter.com/irYt6olgxa

— Marzell (@MarzellCrypto) May 13, 2025

The Bitcoin acquisition was conducted through a private investment in public equity (PIPE) transaction. Tether co-founded the firm and initially purchased the BTC and stored it in a secure wallet. Upon closing the merger, Tether will transfer the Bitcoin to Twenty One Capital at the exact purchase price.

The company was created via a special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC) merger with Cantor Equity Partners. Twenty One will trade under the ticker “XXI” on Nasdaq once the merger is finalized. Until then, Cantor Equity Partners trades under the symbol “CEP”.

$459M Purchase Cements Treasury Strategy

Tether bought the 4,812 BTC at an average price of $95,319.83 and earmarked it for the upcoming transaction. Once the PIPE deal closes, the coins will be officially transferred to Twenty One Capital. This move underscores the company’s commitment to building a sizable BTC treasury from day one.

The PIPE structure includes $385 million in convertible senior secured notes and $200 million in common equity funding. This capital raise provides the financial foundation for Twenty One’s immediate and future Bitcoin acquisitions. Additionally, the firm can raise an extra $100 million in convertible notes within 30 days.

Following the transaction, Twenty One Capital will hold over 42,000 BTC valued near $4.4 billion at current market prices. This level places the firm among the top public Bitcoin holders globally.

Tether, Bitfinex, and SoftBank Lead Formation

Tether and its sister company Bitfinex are the majority stakeholders in Twenty One Capital. SoftBank Group holds a minority stake, adding a traditional finance component to the crypto-native entity. The strategic alliance combines stablecoin liquidity, exchange infrastructure, and institutional capital.

Jack Mallers, founder of Bitcoin payments firm Strike, leads Twenty One as CEO. Under his leadership, the company aims to offer Bitcoin lending and other crypto-financial services. The firm emphasizes Bitcoin ownership per share as a key performance metric.

Twenty One seeks to operate as a Bitcoin-native financial institution. It plans to launch products aligned with Bitcoin’s monetary framework and capital market dynamics. These include lending instruments, structured notes, and Bitcoin-centric corporate services.

Bitcoin Market Rebounds as Launch Nears

Source:  CoinMarketCap

Bitcoin’s price recently climbed to $104,356.21, just 4% below its all-time high of $108,786. The 24-hour trading volume declined by 19.53%. The upward trend reinforces confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term strength and store-of-value role.

With its treasury model and capital structure, Twenty One Capital aims for rapid BTC accumulation. The firm’s first purchase signals aggressive intent and a long-term bullish outlook. Its listing under the ticker XXI will mark a milestone for Bitcoin-focused public companies

The post Tether-Backed Twenty One Capital Debuts With $459M BTC Buy: What’s Next for the Firm appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Bitcoin ETFs have reached a new all-time high with over $41.1 billion in cumulative inflows.
• The funds rebounded strongly after early-year outflows caused by global trade tensions.
• Bitcoin dropped to $75,000 in April but quickly recovered, driving renewed ETF interest.
• Regulatory approval in January opened the door for broader participation in Bitcoin ETFs.
• The ETFs continue to attract capital as Bitcoin trades close to its all-time high near $108,000.

Bitcoin ETFs have surpassed expectations once again, reaching a new peak with more than $41.1 billion in cumulative flows. The surge follows months of market volatility and marks a major recovery in crypto-linked fund activity. After a slow start to the second quarter, Bitcoin ETFs are now dominating the financial landscape.

Bitcoin ETFs Rebound Strongly Despite Trade-Driven Pullbacks

Bitcoin ETFs saw a notable outflow amid geopolitical tensions and a renewed global trade war earlier in the year. Billions exited the funds through February and March after steep losses triggered by tariff threats and political instability. However, once trade rhetoric cooled, Bitcoin ETFs gained momentum and quickly returned to growth.

Market conditions shifted in April, allowing Bitcoin ETFs to recover from their lowest weekly inflows of the year. After hitting a one-month low of $75,000, Bitcoin rapidly climbed, boosting ETF participation again. Funds began absorbing capital consistently by mid-April as risk appetite gradually returned to the markets.

Bitcoin ETFs became more attractive as traditional investors sought regulated access to crypto without directly holding digital assets. This trend accelerated after the U.S. SEC approved spot-based Bitcoin ETFs in January. The regulatory greenlight enabled participation from institutional money previously restricted from crypto exposure.

Flows Into Bitcoin ETFs Set Records Amid Price Recovery

Data from Farside Investors confirmed that cumulative inflows into Bitcoin ETFs have exceeded $41.1 billion as of Monday’s close. These inflows came despite short-term selloffs and confirmed continued confidence in the long-term value of Bitcoin exposure. The spike followed a month-long recovery, adding over 25% to Bitcoin’s price.

Bitcoin ETFs benefited from renewed demand as traders re-entered the market during price pullbacks instead of exiting entirely. Though Bitcoin dropped sharply in April, funds recorded consistent inflows rather than redemptions, signaling sustained interest. The bounce back helped Bitcoin ETFs reclaim a high-water mark not seen since January.

Bitcoin currently trades at $104,260, about 4% below its all-time high from earlier this year. The asset has regained nearly all losses from the trade-driven decline, boosting ETF appeal. With momentum building again, BTC ETFs are expected to maintain strong demand in the coming weeks.

More Crypto ETFs Await SEC Approval

Bitcoin ETFs are part of a broader shift in crypto finance as regulatory clarity attracts more capital into transparent investment products. The SEC’s approval last year ended a decade of rejection and unlocked access for mainstream financial institutions. This decision sparked immediate product launches from ten different issuers.

Bitcoin ETFs have become leading market exposure vehicles due to their accessibility and institutional-grade infrastructure. Unlike direct crypto holdings, ETFs allow real-time trading through standard brokerage accounts without custody concerns. These factors support rising demand for Bitcoin ETFs across retail and professional sectors.

More crypto-linked products are expected as issuers await further regulatory decisions. Ethereum ETFs began trading last summer, and applications for altcoin-based funds are currently under SEC review. If approved, these could expand the ETF market beyond Bitcoin and strengthen crypto’s position in global finance.

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