‍Blockchain Association Opposes Stablecoin Yield Ban Extension The Blockchain Association, representing over 125 crypto groups, has formally opposed proposed regulatory changes that would ban third-party providers from offering rewards to stablecoin holders. In a letter to the US Senate Committee on Banking, the association argued that extending the yield prohibition under the GENIUS framework would stifle innovation and concentrate market power with traditional financial institutions. They contend that crypto-based rewards are comparable to incentives offered by credit card companies and banks, and that these opportunities help consumers combat inflation. The FDIC has also proposed allowing traditional banks to issue stablecoins, suggesting a move towards integrating them into the regulated banking system. The Blockchain Association disputes claims that stablecoin rewards threaten banks, emphasizing regulatory parity for crypto platforms.
‍Bitcoin Price Model Predicts $1.42 Million by 2035 A new analysis from CF Benchmarks, a Kraken subsidiary, suggests Bitcoin could reach $1.42 million by 2035. This projection is based on Bitcoin capturing 33% of the global gold market, yielding an estimated 30.1% annualized return. The report outlines a bull case of $2.95 million and a bear case of $637,000. Catalysts include regulatory clarity, liquidity, and institutional acceptance. Experts like Cathie Wood and Michael Saylor also have optimistic long-term forecasts for BTC.
‍Arthur Hayes: Fed's RMP Program is 'Hidden Money Printing' Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, argues the Federal Reserve's new Reserve Management Purchases (RMP) program is a rebranded form of quantitative easing. Announced December 10, 2024, alongside a 25 basis point rate cut, the RMP involves purchasing ~$40B in short-term Treasuries. While the Fed states RMP aims to maintain ample reserves, Hayes believes it's a way to finance government spending and inject liquidity, potentially benefiting assets like Bitcoin. He warns such policies can devalue currency and hinder economic output. Bitcoin traded around $92,695 on the announcement day, but has since seen a correction. Market sentiment, via Polymarket, suggests a 77% probability of unchanged interest rates in January 2025. The future Fed leadership, with Jerome Powell's term ending May 2026, could also influence monetary policy.