Bitcoin
Vitalik’s L2 Roadmap, XRP Unlock and More

This week in crypto, a lot happened across different ecosystems, despite the broader market’s prevailing bearish sentiment. Besides Bitcoin’s (BTC) drop to a 7-day low of $81,400, here are this week’s biggest updates.
For starters, crypto markets could have a new Ethereum Layer-2 roadmap. Meanwhile, Hyperliquid users could soon start enjoying better security.
Vitalik Buterin Pushes for Ethereum L2 Roadmap
Co-founder Vitalik Buterin outlined a roadmap for Ethereum’s Layer-2 (L2) ecosystem, emphasizing decentralization, security, and cost-efficiency.
He advocates for a model that reduces centralization risks while ensuring user-friendly experiences for developers and investors.
Buterin also reiterated his commitment to open-source funding within the Ethereum community. This stance comes as the phrase “public goods” has become politically and socially loaded. The phrase is often used in ways that prioritize perception over impact.
Against this backdrop, Buterin proposed shifting the focus from “public goods funding” to “open-source funding.” He said this would encourage greater financial support for projects that enhance network security and scalability.
“A big part of the reason why the term ‘public good’ is vulnerable to social gaming is precisely the fact that the definition of ‘public good’ is stretched so easily,” Buterin argued.
His vision aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen Ethereum’s L2 playing field and make it more resistant to potential censorship or network failures.
Hyperliquid Tightens Security After JELLY Crisis
Decentralized trading platform Hyperliquid also features among the key headlines this week in crypto. The platform announced new security measures following the JELLY incident, which resulted in substantial losses for users.
To prevent future incidents, the platform has increased monitoring, enhanced smart contract audits, and introduced stricter withdrawal limits.
Hyperliquid’s response aims to restore confidence in decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms amid rising security concerns.
“Hyperliquid is not perfect, but it will continue to iterate and grow through the collective efforts of builders, traders, and supporters,” the network explained.

BeInCrypto data shows that Hyperliquid’s HYPE token price was $11.89 as of this writing, up by a modest 0.97% in the last 24 hours.
Crypto Markets, Equities Sync Amid Recession Fears
Another headline this week in crypto was how the digital assets industry continues to mirror traditional financial (TradFi). Specifically, more than ever, the crypto market appears synchronized with indices like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq.
The synchrony comes as investors react to growing recession concerns. Bitcoin and Ethereum have followed similar downturns seen in stock markets, reinforcing the argument that cryptocurrencies are increasingly correlated with broader economic conditions.
With macroeconomic uncertainty looming, analysts warn that crypto could further decline if economic conditions worsen. However, some argue long-term investors may find opportunities in current market lows.
According to former BitMEX CEO Arthur Hayes, Bitcoin could reach $250,000 by year-end. However, this forecast is contingent on the Federal Reserve (Fed) shifting to Quantitative Easing (QE) to support markets.
Meanwhile, former Goldman Sachs executive Raoul Pal pointed to macroeconomic indicators that suggest a Bitcoin rally is imminent. He shared a chart correlating the global M2 money supply and Bitcoin’s price.
Based on history, Bitcoin tends to rise around 10 weeks after M2 increases. Pal’s analysis suggests that Bitcoin may soon enter a bullish phase.
“The waiting game is almost over…the 10-week lead is my preferred… but,” Pal stated.
Ripple Unlocked $1 Billion in XRP
Also, this week in crypto, Ripple released another 1 billion XRP from its escrow, increasing selling pressure on the token.

Historically, such unlocks have been followed by price declines. This aligns with recent Keyrock research that showed that 90% of unlocks create negative price pressure.
The tokens were moved from the “Ripple (27)” escrow address to two operational wallets, “Ripple (12)” and “Ripple (13).” This suggested the intention to distribute or sell XRP.
Investors remain cautious, watching for signs of potential accumulation. Meanwhile, others anticipate further downside as XRP struggles to regain upward momentum amid broader market uncertainty.
Notwithstanding, there are other positive developments for the XRP market. According to Glassnode data, Retail investors are choosing XRP over Bitcoin, and nearly half of XRP’s realized cap is increasing.
Another bullish fundamental for XRP this week is Coinbase’s filing for a futures contract offering in the Ripple token. The move indicates shifting regulatory tides in the US and also bolsters XRP ETF (exchange-traded funds) approval odds.
Standard Chartered Predicts Crypto Winners
Standard Chartered also made it to the top headlines this week in crypto. The bank identified Bitcoin (BTC) and Avalanche (AVAX) as the primary beneficiaries of a potential post-Liberation Day crypto market surge.
The bank suggests that favorable macroeconomic conditions and increasing institutional adoption could propel these assets higher in the coming months.
“We expect volatility to edge gradually lower once the ETF market matures, increasing Bitcoin’s share of an optimal gold-BTC portfolio. Access plus lower volatility could see Bitcoin reach the $500,000 level before Trump leaves office,” wrote Geoff Kendrick, Head of Digital Asset Research at Standard Chartered, in an email to BeInCrypto.
This forecast aligns with the growing narrative that institutional interest will play a key role in shaping the next phase of the crypto market cycle. However, skeptics remain cautious, citing regulatory uncertainty and potential economic headwinds as factors that could delay or dampen such a rally.
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 Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Bitcoin
Public Companies are Buying Bitcoin Again After a Brief Pause

Bitcoin is rebounding after tariff chaos, and public companies like Metaplanet are conducting major acquisitions. The firm bought $28.2 million worth of the asset, nearly a $2 million increase from last week.
However, despite this new confidence, Metaplanet’s stock has continued to perform shakily. The crypto market is showing cautious optimism, but that won’t immediately translate into major gains.
Although a few corporate Bitcoin whales briefly paused their big purchases recently, the markets are heating back up again. Metaplanet began buying the dip last week, and Bitcoin has been making steady progress since then.
Today, its CEO, Simon Gerovich, announced a new purchase as BTC rebounds:
“Metaplanet has acquired 330 BTC for ~$28.2 million at ~$85,605 per bitcoin and has achieved BTC Yield of 119.3% YTD 2025. As of 4/21/2025, we hold 4855 $BTC acquired for ~$414.5 million at ~$85,386 per bitcoin,” he claimed.
Trump’s tariff threats caused massive uncertainty and crypto liquidations in the last few weeks. However, since he announced a pause, crypto and industry-related stocks have been rallying.
Whales like Metaplanet and MicroStrategy immediately began buying Bitcoin, and the whole market is rising. The Crypto Fear and Greed Index was recently in Extreme Fear but has since recovered greatly:

Still, markets are showing cautious optimism, not a full rally. A quick look at some major crypto-related stocks will paint a clearer picture.
MicroStrategy rose over 4% in the last five days and nearly 6% in the last month, but it’s a pillar of confidence in BTC. Metaplanet, a much smaller Bitcoin holder, only fell 1.89% in the last five days but over 20% in the last 30.
In other words, it can be difficult to cleanly connect Bitcoin’s recent successes with major holders like Metaplanet. Compare two prominent US-based crypto miners, Marathon and Riot.
The former recovered from its slump in early April, while the latter only continued to drop. Coinbase, too, has only made brief rallies on a trend of continual decline.
While Bitcoin’s adoption has surged dramatically over the past year, there’s still a lot of uncertainty about tariffs and recession. Metaplanet may be in shaky territory right now, but its confidence in Bitcoin can provide a long-term sense of stability.
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 Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Bitcoin
Dollar Dips While Bitcoin Hits New Heights

The US Dollar Index (DXY) has dropped to a three-year low amid reports that President Donald Trump is considering removing Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.
Meanwhile, the development positively affected Bitcoin’s (BTC) price, pushing it to its highest level since President Trump’s Liberation Day.
Trump’s Push Against Powell Adds Pressure on the Dollar
According to the latest data, DXY has plunged below 99. At press time, it stood at 98.2, representing the lowest value since March 2022.

Economist Peter Schiff highlighted the severity of the situation in the latest post on X (formerly Twitter).
“Gold is up over $50, hitting a record high of $3,380. The euro is above $1.15. The dollar has also fallen below 141 Japanese yen and .81 Swiss francs (a new 14-year low, just 3% above a record low). The dollar Index is below 98.5, a new three-year low. This is getting serious,” Schiff posted.
The dollar’s steep fall comes amid the latest comments made by National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett on Friday, April 18. Hassett revealed that Trump and his team are actively exploring the possibility of ousting Powell.
His statement was in response to a reporter’s question about whether removing Powell was an option.
“The president and his team will continue to study that matter,” Hassett replied.
In addition, he called out the Federal Reserve for politically motivated actions under Powell’s leadership. Specifically, Hassett criticized the Fed for raising interest rates shortly after Trump’s election and cutting them ahead of the election, moves he claims favored the Democratic Party.
Notably, the growing contempt towards Powell is a response to the Fed’s stance on interest rates. BeInCrypto reported earlier that the Fed will likely not cut rates in May amid rising inflation and President Trump’s tariff pause.
Recently, Trump also blamed the Fed Chair for being slow to act on interest rate cuts. In a post on social media, Trump compared Powell’s actions unfavorably to the European Central Bank (ECB), which is set to implement its seventh interest rate cut.
Trump argued that Powell, whom he described as “always too late and wrong,” should have taken similar measures long ago to address economic conditions.
“Powell’s termination cannot come fast enough!” the President wrote.
The Fed Chair’s potential removal raises serious questions about the Federal Reserve’s independence and its implications for global markets. Powell, whose term as chair extends to May 2026, has previously stated that legal protections prevent his removal and that he intends to serve out his term.
Will Dollar Weakness Drive Bitcoin to New Heights?
Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that if Powell is removed and President Trump successfully persuades the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, it could likely lead to a crypto market rally. Generally, when the Fed lowers interest rates, the US dollar tends to weaken.
Therefore, investors prefer cryptocurrencies, especially Bitcoin, which is often seen as a hedge against inflation and the weakening of fiat currencies. The inverse relation between the DXY and BTC further solidifies the case for a rally if the dollar depreciates.
In fact, the latest decline in the dollar index has coincided with a notable increase in Bitcoin’s price. The largest cryptocurrency surged to over $87,000 for the first time since April 2.
“USD weakness is driving the rally in crypto,” Sean McNulty, Derivatives Trading Lead at FalconX, told Bloomberg.

At the time of writing, BTC was trading at $87,586. BeInCrypto data showed that this represented an appreciation of 3.5% over the past day. As markets celebrate these gains, the focus remains on Trump’s next moves and their broader economic consequences.
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 Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Bitcoin
Solana, Bitcoin in Texas, and Initia

Several top crypto news stories are in the lineup this week in crypto, spanning various ecosystems with the potential to drive volatility.
This week, traders looking to capitalize on event-specific volatility should monitor the following developments.
This week, the Solana Community Conference, or Breakpoint, is among the top crypto news stories. It kicks off on April 25 and is Solana’s flagship gathering of developers, investors, and innovators.
Historically, Solana Breakpoint is a stage for major announcements, such as new project launches, partnerships, or technological advancements. In recent years, key announcements in similar gatherings have included the Solana Seeker phone or the Firedancer validator client.
According to Solscan data, Solana’s ecosystem boasts nearly 4 million active wallets. Meanwhile, DefiLlama data shows up to $7.37 billion in total value locked (TVL). With these numbers, the Solana community conference could drive positive sentiment for SOL, which was trading at $141.05 at press time.

Traders should brace for potential price volatility, as positive news could spark short-term spikes. In the same way, any underwhelming news or network concerns, like past outages, might temper enthusiasm.
Texas Bitcoin Reserve Hearing
Another top crypto news story this week concerns a strategic crypto reserve. On April 23, Texas will hold a strategic Bitcoin reserve hearing, marking a significant event given the state’s pro-crypto stance.
The bill, introduced four months ago, passed the committee with a 9-0 vote and received senate approval with 80% support. Similarly, Dan Patrick, Lieutenant Governor for the State of Texas, listed Bitcoin Reserve as a top priority for 2025.
“My statement announcing the first round of top 40 priority Bills for the 2025 legislative session,” he shared on X (Twitter) in January.
Against these backdrops, the Wednesday hearing could clarify Texas’s approach to institutional Bitcoin adoption. This could set a precedent for other states or federal policy.
A favorable outcome might bolster Bitcoin’s legitimacy, driving demand from institutional investors and positively influencing the BTC price.

Initia’s Mainnet and INIT Token Launch
Also in the headlines, this week in crypto, Initia’s mainnet launch and its token, INIT, debut on Thursday, April 24. This comes after the network revealed a 50 million token airdrop three weeks ago.
The Thursday event will mark a key milestone for the layer-1 blockchain, which is focused on interoperability and user experience. The launch could attract attention from decentralized finance (DeFi) and cross-chain enthusiasts, as Initia aims to simplify dApp interactions.
For traders, INIT’s initial price action will be critical, as new token launches often experience high volatility due to speculative trading.
“Initia INIT Binance Spot Listing Date Announced! Listing on: 24th April 2025. Mainnet will also officially launch on the same day. Airdrop claim date and exact time are yet to be announced,” the network stated recently.
Investors should evaluate Initia’s partnerships and developer adoption, as its success hinges on ecosystem growth.
Injective’s Lyora Mainnet Upgrade
Injective’s Lyora mainnet upgrade, scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, aims to enhance network performance and transaction speed. It would strengthen its position as a DeFi-focused layer-1 chain.
“The Injective Lyora Mainnet is nearly here! Vote today to dramatically enhance Injective infrastructure, performance, and transaction speeds. The official launch is on April 22,” Injective said.
This upgrade could improve user experience and attract developers to Injective’s ecosystem, particularly for derivatives and trading platforms.
Traders should watch INJ’s price for short-term momentum, as successful upgrades often drive positive sentiment.

At the same time, investors should consider Injective’s growing TVL (total value locked) and partnerships, like its collaboration with Sonic for AI agent platforms, as indicators of long-term potential.
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 Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.