Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

Crypto exchange Bullish (NYSE:BLSH) stunned investors as its IPO more than doubled on debut. The company, backed by Peter Thiel and led by former NYSE President Tom Farley, priced the Bullish IPO at $37 per share. Trading opened at $90 and spiked to around $102.44 before a temporary halt, reflecting overwhelming demand.

Institutional Interest Drives Bullish IPO

Farley emphasized that the institutional wave in crypto is underway. “The last leg of growth in crypto was basically all retail,” he told CNBC, “the institutional wave has begun, and it’s here.” With strong reception from investors, the Bullish IPO marks a pivotal moment for institutional adoption of cryptocurrency trading platforms.

Bullish is structured to blend decentralized finance protocols with the security of a centralized exchange, appealing specifically to professional traders. The company’s Cayman Islands headquarters have not deterred major U.S. institutional interest.

Bullish Platform Growth and Market Reach

Since launching in 2021, Bullish has processed over $1.25 trillion in trading volume. Beyond trading, the company owns CoinDesk, a leading crypto news and analytics platform, giving it a significant foothold in market intelligence and media influence within the crypto ecosystem.

The Bullish IPO comes amid a growing wave of cryptocurrency companies going public in the U.S., often after earlier moves in Canada or private markets. For example, Circle (NYSE:CIRCLE) raised over $1 billion in June, and Galaxy Digital transitioned to Nasdaq (NASDAQ:GLXY) from Toronto. Other crypto ventures, including BitGo and Gemini, are preparing for U.S. listings, signaling sustained investor appetite.

Bullish IPO Valuation and Investor Sentiment

The IPO’s pricing at $37 per share valued the company at $5.4 billion pre-trading. Analysts initially expected a range of $32–$33, with earlier indications between $28–$31. Opening at $90 represents a massive 143% jump, reflecting investor confidence in the platform’s long-term prospects.

Industry observers note that Bullish’s focus on institutional traders differentiates it from competitors that primarily target retail investors. By emphasizing security, compliance, and advanced trading features, Bullish positions itself as a key player in the evolving crypto ecosystem.

Implications for Crypto Investors

The success of the Bullish IPO underscores a larger trend: mainstream investors are increasingly treating cryptocurrency platforms as serious, regulated investment vehicles. For those holding or considering stakes in crypto-related equities, BLSH’s debut may signal strong growth potential.

However, the market remains sensitive to regulatory developments and shifts in sentiment. As Farley highlighted, the institutional wave is just beginning. Investors should monitor adoption trends, trading volumes, and any changes in U.S. financial policy that could affect crypto exchanges.

Looking Ahead

Bullish’s NYSE debut demonstrates the evolving dynamics of crypto finance and the appetite for institutional-grade platforms. With a strong start in the public markets, Bullish is poised to play a pivotal role in bridging decentralized finance and traditional investment frameworks.

The Bullish IPO success story highlights the broader maturation of crypto markets, signaling that institutional investors are increasingly confident in this high-growth sector.

Additionally, investors should consider market volatility, regulatory trends, and adoption rates when evaluating crypto exchange stocks like BLSH for potential inclusion in diversified portfolios.

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July’s U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) data has stirred up strong debate among crypto analysts, with many warning that the report could trigger a massive sell-off in the cryptocurrency markets. The mixed inflation signals from the July CPI readings are making investors anxious about the Federal Reserve’s next move and its impact on crypto assets like Bitcoin (BTC).

July CPI Data: Mixed Signals Create Uncertainty

The headline CPI in July rose 2.7% year-over-year, slightly below the anticipated 2.8% increase forecasted by economists. This “cooler” inflation figure gave crypto bulls hope for a potential Federal Reserve interest rate cut in September, which generally boosts risk assets including Bitcoin.

However, the core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices and is closely monitored by the Fed, increased by 3.1%, slightly surpassing the 3.0% estimate. This suggests that underlying inflationary pressures remain persistent and could complicate the Fed’s decision-making process.

This split inflation data leaves investors in a quandary. While lower headline CPI might support looser monetary policy, the elevated core CPI warns of sticky inflation that may force the Fed to maintain or even raise rates longer than expected.

How CPI Influences Crypto Markets

Interest rates and inflation data are critical drivers for cryptocurrencies, which tend to perform well in environments of low rates and moderate inflation. Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like Bitcoin, thereby attracting more investment.

Crypto Key Opinion Leader Fefe Demeny commented, “If CPI comes in cooler, a rate cut is confirmed for September,” underscoring the potential positive impact of low inflation data on crypto prices.

Conversely, crypto analyst Benjamin Cowen described a CPI reading near 2.9% as “somewhat neutral” but warned that any higher reading could spark a market sell-off.

Potential for Bitcoin Correction if CPI Surprises

Derivatives exchange Bitunix’s analysts warn that a hotter-than-expected CPI could push Bitcoin prices below $117,000, triggering a deeper correction phase. This would reflect investor fears that the Fed might postpone rate cuts or even hike rates, hurting risk assets.

Despite these concerns, Bitcoin showed resilience. Data from Bitfinex indicates that Bitcoin bounced back from an August low near $112,000 to a trading floor around $115,800, buoyed by $769 million of inflows into Bitcoin ETFs over three days. This suggests strong institutional support and confidence in the market’s long-term outlook.

Market Activity Around CPI Release

Before the CPI data release, Bitcoin (BTC) was trading around $118,468.96, down roughly 1.76% over the prior 24 hours, with trading volumes declining nearly 12%. Following the report, Bitcoin experienced a modest 1% price uptick, climbing to $119,110.83, according to Kraken exchange data.

This price movement indicates that while the market is sensitive to inflation data, investors are cautiously optimistic. Around 70% of short-term Bitcoin holders remain profitable, which slows down the urge to take profits and limits extreme volatility.

What’s Next for Crypto Investors?

The July CPI data underscores the fragile balance in the market between inflation fears and hopes for easing monetary policy. Investors should be prepared for potential volatility in cryptocurrencies as markets digest future economic data and Fed signals.

With the Federal Reserve’s September meeting approaching, crypto markets will likely remain highly reactive to any new inflation figures and policy announcements. Traders and investors should monitor CPI updates closely, as they will heavily influence the trajectory of Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets in the coming months.

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Operation Chokepoint became widely known during the Biden administration as a regulatory effort aimed at restricting the cryptocurrency industry. This initiative sought to isolate crypto firms by cutting their access to the banking system, severely limiting their ability to operate. Donald Trump, recognizing the damaging effects, promised to shut down Operation Chokepoint and has since taken concrete steps to do so.

What Was Operation Chokepoint?

Operation Chokepoint was an orchestrated move by government regulators to pressure banks into cutting ties with crypto businesses. In 2023, venture capitalist Nic Carter revealed that this was a coordinated effort to marginalize the crypto industry in the U.S. Regulators effectively urged banks to refuse services to crypto firms, which significantly hindered their operations.

Founders such as Tyler Winklevoss, Roman Storm, and Jesse Powell have confirmed that they and their companies were affected. Elon Musk also disclosed that about 30 tech founders were secretly debanked as part of this operation.

Banks that refused to comply with these regulatory pressures, like Silvergate, Signature, and Silicon Valley Bank, found themselves targeted. Silvergate, once a key crypto-friendly bank, voluntarily liquidated despite being solvent because regulators no longer allowed it to serve crypto clients.

Nic Carter emphasized that the shutdown of Silvergate was not due to financial instability but was a direct result of Operation Chokepoint. He highlighted that regulators had the power to “capriciously” end the business of firms under their watch, illustrating the risks of politicized oversight.

Interestingly, Operation Chokepoint’s reach extended beyond crypto. Donald Trump revealed in an interview that major banks like JPMorgan and Bank of America had rejected his deposits, making him personally aware of these politicized banking practices.

Donald Trump’s Move to End Operation Chokepoint

As president, Donald Trump took action to reverse the effects of Operation Chokepoint. He signed an executive order that mandates fair and equal banking access for all Americans, explicitly condemning Operation Chokepoint as an example of undue regulatory influence leading to unlawful banking restrictions.

The order directs federal banking regulators to remove references to “reputation risk” or similar concepts from their regulatory guidance. This move aims to prevent regulators from using vague criteria to justify politically motivated debanking.

Regulators must implement these changes within 180 days of the order, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to restoring a fair banking environment.

Prior to this, the Federal Reserve had already announced the end of reputational risk oversight, signaling alignment with Trump’s executive order.

Why Operation Chokepoint Matters to Crypto and Beyond

Operation Chokepoint serves as a cautionary tale about how regulatory overreach can stifle innovation and unfairly target emerging industries like crypto. By cutting off banking access, regulators created barriers to growth and contributed to instability within the crypto ecosystem.

Donald Trump’s executive order not only restores banking fairness for crypto companies but also protects all sectors from politicized debanking.

The crypto industry now stands on stronger footing with renewed access to banking services, allowing firms to operate more freely and innovate without fear of arbitrary shutdowns.

Looking Ahead

With Operation Chokepoint officially ended, the crypto industry and other affected sectors can expect more equitable treatment from banks and regulators. This development may lead to increased investment, innovation, and broader adoption of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies.

This development may lead to increased investment, innovation, and broader adoption of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies. It also sets a precedent for safeguarding financial services from political interference, fostering a healthier economic environment.

Moving forward, stakeholders across the financial and tech industries will be watching closely to ensure these regulatory reforms are fully implemented and sustained. The end of Operation Chokepoint could mark a turning point, encouraging more startups and established firms alike to pursue innovation with greater confidence and stability.

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The space tourism crypto payments era has arrived. Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin has teamed up with Shift4 Payments to allow customers to purchase tickets for its New Shepard spaceflights using cryptocurrencies and stablecoins.

According to a Monday press release, passengers can now pay in Bitcoin (BTC-USD), Ether (ETH-USD), Solana (SOL-USD), Tether (USDT-USD), and USD Coin (USDC-USD). Blue Origin, which has flown over 75 passengers beyond the Kármán Line — the recognized boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space — will accept direct payments from popular crypto wallets like MetaMask and Coinbase.

Shift4 CEO Taylor Lauber said the company was “thrilled” to extend its vision of revolutionizing commerce beyond Earth. Alex Wilson, Shift4’s head of crypto, added that digital assets and stablecoins are poised to become a preferred payment method for high-end purchases like space travel.

NFTs and Blockchain Already in Orbit

The fusion of blockchain technology and space travel isn’t entirely new. In 2022, NFT project Azuki made headlines when it sent its “Bobu the Bean Farmer” character to space aboard a SpaceX/NASA mission, blending the worlds of digital collectibles and frontier exploration.

Blockchain infrastructure projects have also been taking root in orbit. In 2020, Spacechain executed what it called the first multisignature Bitcoin transaction from the International Space Station, proving that blockchain transactions can be conducted entirely off-planet.

More recently, in December 2024, Spacecoin XYZ launched its first satellite to begin developing an orbital blockchain network. The initiative aims to create a multi-tiered blockchain system anchored in space to support decentralized applications and future extraterrestrial economies.

Stratospheric Connectivity Through Blockchain Networks

Blockchain-powered aerospace innovation is also impacting Earth’s skies. Telecom startup World Mobile is deploying a 5G network using hydrogen-powered drones flying at 60,000 feet, delivering wireless connectivity over 15,000 square kilometers.

Developed in partnership with Indonesian telecom company Protelindo, the network integrates with World Mobile’s decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN), combining traditional telecom systems with independently operated nodes. The result: ultra-low latency of around six milliseconds and costs reportedly up to 18 times lower per gigabyte than satellite alternatives.

This hybrid approach could revolutionize connectivity in underserved regions while maintaining the decentralized ethos of blockchain technology.

Tron Founder’s $28 Million Blue Origin Flight

Blue Origin’s relationship with the crypto community extends beyond payments. On August 3, 2024, blockchain entrepreneur Justin Sun, founder of Tron (TRX-USD), flew aboard the NS-34 mission from West Texas. Sun had secured his seat in a 2021 auction for $28 million, joining five other passengers on the suborbital journey.

The ticket proceeds were donated to 19 space-related charities, supporting educational programs in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM). After the flight, Sun remarked on the fragility of Earth, stressing the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.

Space Tourism Crypto Payments: A New Frontier for Payments and Exploration

The acceptance of cryptocurrency and stablecoin payments for space tourism represents a pivotal moment in both industries. For the crypto sector, it signals mainstream adoption in one of humanity’s most aspirational experiences. For space tourism, it expands access to a growing base of digital asset holders eager to convert virtual wealth into tangible adventures.

With blockchain already making its mark in space — from NFT launches to orbital transaction networks — the partnership between Blue Origin and Shift4 could accelerate the integration of decentralized technology into aerospace and tourism. As more companies adopt crypto-friendly payment systems, the boundary between Earth’s financial systems and outer space exploration will continue to blur.

And as the space tourism crypto payments trend gains momentum, future travelers might not just carry their wallets to the stars — they’ll bring their digital wallets too, turning cryptocurrency into the universal currency for the final frontier.

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The Bitcoin price surge continued on Monday, with Bitcoin (BTC-USD) hitting $122,000 before settling around $120,000. The rally reflects a potent mix of investor optimism, favorable policy signals from the Trump administration, and growing institutional adoption.

The cryptocurrency market’s momentum accelerated following President Trump’s nomination of Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors and an executive order paving the way for 401(k) retirement plans to include crypto investments. This policy shift could make digital assets more accessible to millions of retirement savers.

At the same time, inflows into Bitcoin-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have reached record levels, and more public companies are adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets as part of a long-term diversification strategy.

Ethereum Joins the Rally

Bitcoin wasn’t alone in benefiting from bullish sentiment. Ethereum (ETH-USD), the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, reached price levels not seen since 2021. Ethereum has surged roughly 190% since April’s market lows, as companies increasingly view it as a strategic asset tied to decentralized finance (DeFi) and blockchain infrastructure.

Institutional players are not just betting on price appreciation — they are also investing in Ethereum for its role in powering digital assets like stablecoins and NFTs. This dual appeal of technology and investment potential continues to strengthen Ethereum’s position in the market.

Macro Tailwinds: Fed Rate Cuts and Monetary Policy Shifts

The Bitcoin price surge has also been fueled by macroeconomic expectations. Investors anticipate the Federal Reserve will begin cutting interest rates in September. Lower rates tend to make risk assets like cryptocurrencies more attractive, as borrowing costs decline and liquidity increases.

According to Sean Farrell, head of digital asset strategy at Fundstrat, “If the Fed is cutting into an economy that is still growing, with unemployment in check and inflation elevated, that is a macro cocktail that should favor allocation to crypto.”

Stephen Miran, Trump’s nominee for the Fed board, has historically supported a weaker U.S. dollar policy — a stance that typically benefits commodities, equities, and crypto assets. Such a policy shift could help sustain higher Bitcoin prices over the longer term.

Regulatory Tailwinds from Washington

Policy changes under the Trump administration have provided a clear boost to crypto markets. Last week’s executive order directing the Department of Labor to explore allowing cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement plans marked a significant milestone.

This move would integrate crypto into the traditional retirement system, potentially unlocking billions in fresh investment capital. Trump’s public and private endorsements of Bitcoin, as well as remarks from Eric Trump urging investors not to “bet against BTC and ETH,” have further reinforced market confidence.

Short-Term Froth, Long-Term Potential

While some analysts caution that the market may be overheated in the short term, many believe the Bitcoin price surge reflects deeper structural changes. Tom Essaye, founder of Sevens Report Research, observed, “The administration is pushing crypto. They are pushing Bitcoin. Bitcoin is the lead dog in the crypto market… longer term, there are some fundamental changes here that I think are bullish for it and will send it much higher in the future.”

If institutional adoption continues to accelerate, and regulatory conditions remain favorable, Bitcoin could see sustained growth beyond the current rally. For now, both Bitcoin and Ethereum’s gains highlight the powerful combination of policy support, macroeconomic shifts, and technological relevance driving the digital asset market forward. And with more traditional investors beginning to view Bitcoin as a legitimate hedge against inflation and currency risk, the foundations for continued expansion appear stronger than ever — setting the stage for potential new all-time highs in the months ahead.

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