Connect with us

Bitcoin

Bitcoin Hits 1 Billion Transactions Milestone

Published

on


Bitcoin (BTC), the largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, has marked a significant milestone by processing its one billionth transaction. This achievement highlights the robust activity and growing adoption of Bitcoin despite the fluctuating market conditions.

The Bitcoin community, particularly on social media platforms like X (Twitter), has been abuzz with celebrations. The excitement highlights this milestone’s significance for investors and enthusiasts.

The Road Ahead: Bitcoin After 1 Billion Transactions

On-chain data confirmed this historic moment for Bitcoin. The dashboard from Clark Moody shows that the all-time transaction count on the Bitcoin network has reached 1,000,193,647. Additionally, data from Swan indicates that the 1 billion transaction milestone was achieved at the block height of 842,241.

Glassnode’s recent data points to April 23 as the day with the highest number of Bitcoin transactions in 2024 so far. On that date, 926,842 transactions were recorded when Bitcoin was priced at $66,403. However, the transaction count from the previous day was 625,859, with Bitcoin’s price around $64,000.

Read more: A Basic Guide On How Bitcoin Transactions Work

Bitcoin's Number of Transactions.
Bitcoin’s Number of Transactions. Source: Glassnode

Despite this milestone, Bitcoin’s scalability remains a topic of discussion. Crypto analyst Colin Talks Crypto shared his insights. He sees that the challenges and potential scaling issues still remain as Bitcoin continues to grow.

He predicts that Bitcoin’s price might see “euphoric blow off tops,” leading to massive congestion and a significant increase in transaction fees. Such scenarios could make it unaffordable for many to transact. As fees might exceed the balance in over 90% of Bitcoin addresses, making these balances are essentially unspendable.

“It could also mean weeks or even months of waiting for the backlog of transactions to clear from the mempool. This is when I think things have a chance of changing. […] Only when congestion and fees have gotten bad enough that most people are priced out of using the system, will there be enough outcry to finally increase the block size. In my opinion, it could take things getting worse than the 2015-2017 transaction backlog and high fees to cause the shift,” Colin added.

Colin’s perspective highlights a critical debate within the Bitcoin community between ‘big blockers’ and ‘small blockers.’ The big blockers advocate for increasing the block size to handle more transactions and reduce fees. Conversely, the latter resist such changes, focusing on maintaining decentralization and security.

Furthermore, Colin also critiques the effectiveness of the Lightning Network, a proposed solution for Bitcoin’s scalability issues. He suggests that it fails to address core issues at the base layer.

As Bitcoin navigates these challenges, the community remains divided on the best path forward. While some argue for significant protocol changes to enhance scalability, others believe the current infrastructure, including secondary layers like the Lightning Network, will evolve to meet demand. Expected to occur without compromising the foundational principles of Bitcoin, this evolution will maintain the core values of the system.

Amidst the new milestone, Bitcoin’s market performance continues to capture attention. At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at $63,805, marking a 0.94% increase over the last 24 hours. This recent uptick follows a climb from below the $60,000 threshold, catalyzed by a favorable US labor report the previous Friday.

Read more: Bitcoin Price Prediction 2024/2025/2030

Bitcoin Price Performance.
Bitcoin Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto

However, a new report from Bitfinex suggests a possible period of price stabilization for Bitcoin, which could last up to two months. This forecasted stability might provide a respite for the market, allowing users and developers alike to focus on long-term solutions for scalability and usability.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.





Source link

Bitcoin

Marathon Digital to Sell $2 Billion in Stock to Buy Bitcoin

Published

on



Marathon Digital Holdings, one of the largest Bitcoin mining companies in the US, made headlines with its announcement of a $2 billion stock offering to increase its Bitcoin holdings. 

This strategic move, detailed in recent SEC filings, shows Marathon’s aggressive approach to capitalize on the growing crypto market. 

Marathon’s $2 Billion Stock Offering: Key Details

On March 30, 2025, Marathon Digital Holdings announced a $2 billion at-the-market (ATM) stock offering to fund its strategy of acquiring more Bitcoin. The company filed a Form 8-K with the SEC, outlining its plan to raise capital through the sale of shares, with the proceeds primarily aimed at increasing its Bitcoin holdings. 

According to the SEC filing (Form 424B5), Marathon intends to use the funds for “general corporate purposes,” which include purchasing additional Bitcoin and supporting operational needs.

Marathon holds 46,376 BTC, making it the second-largest publicly traded company in Bitcoin ownership, behind MicroStrategy. The company’s Bitcoin holdings have grown significantly in recent years, from 13,726 BTC in early 2024 to the current figure. 

“We believe we are the second largest holder of bitcoin among publicly traded companies. From time to time, we enter into forward or option contracts and/or lend bitcoin to increase yield on our Bitcoin holdings.” Marathon confirmed

This $2 billion stock offering continues Marathon’s strategy to bolster its balance sheet with Bitcoin, a move that aligns with its long-term vision of leveraging cryptocurrency as a store of value.

Marathon’s strategy mirrors that of MicroStrategy. MicroStrategy’s stock price has soared with Bitcoin’s value, providing a blueprint for companies like Marathon to follow. By increasing its Bitcoin holdings, Marathon aims to position itself as a leader in the crypto mining sector while diversifying its revenue streams beyond traditional mining operations.

Marathon Digital CEO Fred Thiel advises investing small amounts in Bitcoin monthly, citing its consistent long-term growth potential.

The issuance of new shares to raise $2 billion could dilute the ownership of existing shareholders, potentially impacting the company’s stock price (MARA). As of March 31, 2025, MARA stock has experienced volatility, trading at around $12.47 per share, down from a 52-week high of $24, according to data from Yahoo Finance.

Moreover, Marathon’s heavy reliance on Bitcoin exposes it to the cryptocurrency’s price fluctuations. If Bitcoin’s price were to decline significantly, the value of Marathon’s holdings would decrease, potentially straining its financial position.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.



Source link

Continue Reading

Bitcoin

US Macroeconomic Indicators This Week: NFP, JOLTS, & More

Published

on


Crypto markets have much to look forward to this week, which marks the end of the first quarter (Q1). As Q2 commences on Tuesday, several US economic data will drive Bitcoin (BTC) and crypto sentiment this week.

Traders and investors will watch a slate of US economic data releases that could ripple through Bitcoin and altcoin prices.

5 US Economic Data To Watch This Week

These US macroeconomic indicators could drive volatility amid fresh insights into the health of the world’s largest economy.

US economic data with crypto implications this week
US economic data with crypto implications this week. Source: MarketWatch

“Buckle up—volatility’s knocking. Right on time for the monthly shake-up,” a user on X quipped.

JOLTS

The first is the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, or JOLTS, due for release on Tuesday, April 1. This report tracks available job vacancies in the US, effectively offering a window into employer confidence and labor market demand.

A strong showing, with openings exceeding recent trends of around 7.7 million, would suggest a strong economy. While this would strengthen the US dollar, it would dampen Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge against weakness.

Conversely, a sharp drop in openings might stoke expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts to bolster the economy. This outcome would lift risk assets like Bitcoin and crypto as investors seek alternatives to low-yield bonds.

ADP Employment

Adding to the list of US macroeconomic indicators this week is the ADP Employment report on Wednesday, April 2. This report will provide a private-sector payroll snapshot, serving as a preview of Friday’s main event.

There is a median forecast of 120,000 for March, following the previous month’s 77,000 reading. If job growth tops the consensus forecast, it could reinforce confidence in traditional markets, possibly pressuring crypto prices as the dollar gains ground.

On the other hand, a weaker-than-expected figure, say below 77,000, might hint at a slowdown. This would boost Bitcoin’s allure as a safe haven amid uncertainty. While not as authoritative as the official numbers, surprises here often set the tone for crypto traders adjusting their positions.

Liberation Day

Meanwhile, the stakes are high this week, with the US economy enduring uncertainties like Trump-era policies, including tariffs and government streamlining efforts. BeInCrypto reported on the upcoming Liberation Day, which is expected to bring new tariff announcements targeting nations imposing trade barriers.

“The last two months have already hurt American businesses and consumers, but the April 2 deadline seriously could make all of that look like a tempest in a teapot. We don’t know exactly what they’re going to do, but from what they’re saying, it sounds functionally like new tariffs on all US imports,” said Joseph Politano, economic policy analyst at Apricitas Economics.

Analysts predict extreme market volatility, with potential stock and crypto crashes reaching 10-15% if Trump enforces broad tariffs.

“April 2nd is similar to election night. It is the biggest event of the year by an order of magnitude. 10x more important than any FOMC, which is a lot. And anything can happen, “Alex Krüger predicted.

Initial Jobless Claims

On Thursday, April 3, crypto markets will watch the Initial Jobless Claims report, which shows the number of US citizens filing for unemployment insurance. Released weekly, this is a near-real-time pulse on layoffs and labor market stability.

Fewer claims, under the previous week’s 224,000 reading, could suggest resilience, supporting the dollar but tempering crypto enthusiasm. However, potentially exceeding the median forecast of 226,000 might raise red flags about economic health.

Such an outcome would drive demand for decentralized assets to hedge against potential turmoil. Given its weekly cadence, this report tends to spark quick reactions in the crypto market, especially when amplified by broader narratives like government efficiency cuts or tariff impacts in 2025.

US Employment Report

The week’s crescendo arrives Friday, April 4, with the US Employment Report, widely known as Non-Farm Payrolls. This comprehensive labor market update—including jobs added, the unemployment rate, and wage growth—is a linchpin for markets worldwide.

A strong report, higher than the previous reading of 151,000 jobs and a steady 4.1% unemployment rate, could bolster faith in the economy. This could curb crypto gains if the dollar rallies.

However, strong wage growth exceeding 0.3% month-over-month (MoM) might rekindle inflation fears, indirectly supporting Bitcoin as a store of value.

Conversely, a disappointing tally—under the median forecast of 140,000 jobs with unemployment ticking beyond 4.1%—could ignite recession worries. This would send investors flocking to Bitcoin and crypto.

Significant deviations from consensus forecasts, often by 50,000 jobs or more, have historically triggered sharp Bitcoin moves of 1-2% or greater.

“BofA [Bank of America] Securities expects a pickup in job growth for March. Keep an eye on those numbers,” crypto researcher Orlando noted.

For crypto market participants, the game plan is clear: track consensus estimates on economic calendars, watch real-time reactions, and brace for swings. Nevertheless, this week’s data could dictate Bitcoin’s next move in Q2 2025, particularly in April.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell will also address the economic outlook at the SABEW Annual Conference on Friday at 11:25 a.m. EST.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto

BeInCrypto data shows BTC was trading for $82,192 as of this writing, down by over 1% in the last 24 hours.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.



Source link

Continue Reading

Bitcoin

Gold Keeps Outperforming Bitcoin Amid Trump’s Trade War Chaos

Published

on


Bitcoin (BTC) has long been touted as “digital gold.” However, as the global economy reels from escalating trade war tensions under Trump’s second term, institutional investors are fleeing to the real thing.

A recent Bank of America (BofA) survey found that 58% of fund managers view gold as the best-performing haven in a trade war—leaving Bitcoin with only a 3% preference.

Bitcoin’s Haven Status Faces a Reality Check

Gold is proving its dominance as the crisis asset of choice while Bitcoin struggles to hold its ground. This comes amid rising geopolitical risks, the ballooning US deficit, and uncertainty driving capital flight.

“In a recent Bank of America survey, 58% of fund managers said gold performs best in a trade war. This compares to just 9% for 30-year Treasury Bonds and 3% for Bitcoin,” The Kobeissi Letter noted.

Survey of Gold vs. Bitcoin during trade wars
Survey of Gold vs. Bitcoin during trade wars. Source: Bank of America

For years, Bitcoin advocates have championed it as a hedge against economic instability. Yet, in 2025’s volatile macro environment, Bitcoin struggles to earn institutional investors’ full trust.

The Bank of America survey reflects this status, with long-term US Treasury bonds and even the US dollar losing appeal as trade wars and fiscal dysfunction shake market confidence.

The US deficit crisis—now projected to exceed $1.8 trillion—has further eroded confidence in traditional safe havens like US Treasuries.

“This is what happens when the global reserve currency no longer behaves as the global reserve currency,” a trader quipped in a post.

However, instead of looking to Bitcoin as an alternative, institutions are overwhelmingly choosing gold, doubling physical gold purchases to record levels.

Gold vs. Bitcoin. Source
Gold vs. Bitcoin. Source: TradingView

Barriers To Bitcoin Institutional Adoption

Despite its fixed supply and decentralization, Bitcoin’s short-term volatility remains a key barrier to institutional adoption as a true safe-haven asset.

While some traders still view Bitcoin as a long-term store of value, it lacks the immediate liquidity and risk-averse appeal that gold provides during crises.

Further, President Trump is expected to announce sweeping new tariffs on “Liberation Day.” Experts flag the event as a potential trigger for extreme market volatility.

“April 2nd is similar to election night. It is the biggest event of the year by an order of magnitude. 10x more important than any FOMC, which is a lot. And anything can happen, “Alex Krüger predicted.

Trade tensions have historically driven capital into safe-haven assets. With this announcement looming, investors preemptively position themselves again, favoring gold over Bitcoin.

“Gold’s no longer just a hedge against inflation; it’s being treated as the hedge against everything: geopolitical risk, de-globalization, fiscal dysfunction, and now, weaponized trade. When 58% of fund managers say gold is the top performer in a trade war, that’s not just sentiment that’s allocation flow. When even long bonds and the dollar take a back seat, it’s a signal: the old playbook is being rewritten. In a world of rising tariffs, FX tension, and twin deficits, gold might be the only politically neutral store of value left,” trader Billy AU observed.

Despite Bitcoin’s struggle to capture institutional safe-haven flows in 2025, its long-term narrative remains intact.

Specifically, the global reserve currency system is changing, US debt concerns are mounting, and monetary policies continue to shift. Despite all these, Bitcoin’s value proposition as a censorship-resistant, borderless asset is still relevant.

However, in the short term, its volatility and lack of widespread institutional adoption as a crisis hedge mean gold is taking the lead.

For Bitcoin believers, the key question is not whether Bitcoin will one day challenge gold but how long institutions will adopt it as a flight-to-safety asset.

Until then, gold remains the undisputed king in times of economic turmoil. Meanwhile, Bitcoin (BTC exchange-traded funds notwithstanding) fights to prove its place in the next financial paradigm shift.

“The ETF demand was real, but some of it was purely for arbitrage…There was a genuine demand for owning BTC, just not as much as we were led to believe,” analyst Kyle Chassé said recently.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.



Source link

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2024 coin2049.io