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Why Singapore Outpaces Hong Kong In Attracting Crypto Operators

Why Singapore Outpaces Hong Kong In Attracting Crypto Operators

Singapore has emerged as a beacon of stability and innovation. Over the past few years, the city-state has positioned itself as a global leader in digital assets and blockchain technology, attracting some of the biggest names in the industry. This success is no accident. It is the result of a carefully designed regulatory framework by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which has managed to strike a delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring investor protection.

With over 200 licensed payment institutions (MPIs) and a growing number of digital payment token (DPT) service applications, Singapore has become a prime destination for crypto operators looking to expand in Asia. In 2024 alone, MAS issued 13 Major Payment Institution (MPI) licenses for crypto exchanges, more than doubling the number issued in 2023. This surge in licensing reflects Singapore’s growing dominance in the cryptocurrency space and its ability to attract major players like Okx, Upbit and Bitgo.

However, Singapore’s success is not just about the numbers. It is about the city-state’s ability to create a regulatory environment that inspires trust, encourages innovation, and mitigates risks. I want to explore Singapore’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation, examines its competitive edge over Hong Kong, and considers the broader implications of its strategy for the global crypto industry.

Singapore’s Regulatory Framework: A Global Standard

Singapore’s success in the cryptocurrency space is built on the foundation of the Payment Services Act (PS Act), which came into effect in January 2020. This legislation introduced an activity-based licensing framework for payment services, including digital payment token (DPT) services. Unlike traditional regulatory models that impose blanket rules on entire industries, the PS Act tailors its requirements to the specific activities of each service provider. This nuanced approach allows MAS to address risks such as money laundering, terrorist financing, and market volatility without stifling innovation.

MAS Managing Director Chia Der Jiun has emphasized the importance of this balanced approach, describing the PS Act as a framework that “applies appropriate risk-mitigating regulations for the specific payment service, while allowing latitude for growth and innovation.” This dual focus on risk management and innovation has been instrumental in attracting a diverse range of crypto operators to Singapore. It sends a clear message to the industry: Singapore is open for business, but only for those who are willing to meet its high standards.

The results are undeniable. Since the PS Act’s implementation, the number of licensed MPIs in Singapore has grown as mentioned above. This rapid growth is a testament to the confidence that crypto operators have in Singapore’s regulatory environment. It also reflects MAS’s ability to adapt its rules to address emerging risks, as evidenced by the expansion of the PS Act’s scope in April 2024.

Learning from the Past: Turning Challenges into Strengths

Singapore’s regulatory approach has been shaped by the lessons of the past. The crypto market’s volatility in 2021 and the collapse of several high-profile firms during the crypto winter of 2022 exposed significant vulnerabilities in the ecosystem. These events served as a wake-up call for regulators around the world, highlighting the need for stronger safeguards to protect investors and ensure market stability.

MAS responded to these challenges with characteristic pragmatism. Instead of retreating from the crypto space, it doubled down on its efforts to create a robust regulatory framework. The expanded scope of the PS Act in 2024 introduced stricter requirements for DPT service providers, including enhanced risk management and compliance measures. These changes were not merely reactive; they were part of a broader strategy to future-proof Singapore’s regulatory framework against the rapidly evolving risks of the digital asset landscape.

This adaptability has been a key factor in Singapore’s success. By continuously refining its rules, MAS has been able to address new risks as they arise while maintaining a supportive environment for innovation. This dynamic approach has not only enhanced investor confidence but has also encouraged more crypto operators to set up shop in Singapore. It is a clear example of how regulation, when done right, can be a catalyst for growth rather than a barrier to it.

Why Singapore Outpaces Hong Kong in Crypto Licensing

While Singapore has been issuing crypto licenses at an unprecedented rate, Hong Kong has taken a more cautious approach. As of 2024, Hong Kong has only seven fully licensed crypto exchanges, a stark contrast to Singapore’s 13 MPI licenses issued in the same year. This disparity raises an important question: Why has Singapore been more successful than Hong Kong in attracting crypto operators?

One key factor is regulatory clarity. Singapore’s PS Act provides a clear and consistent framework for crypto operators, giving them the confidence to invest in the city-state. In contrast, Hong Kong’s regulatory environment has been criticized for its lack of clarity and frequent changes. While Hong Kong introduced a licensing regime for virtual asset service providers (VASPs) in 2023, the implementation process has been slow and cumbersome, deterring some operators.

Another factor is Singapore’s proactive approach to risk management. By addressing risks such as money laundering and market volatility upfront, MAS has created a safer and more stable environment for investors and operators alike. Hong Kong, on the other hand, has been slower to address these risks, which has undermined investor confidence. Singapore’s support for innovation has also given it a competitive edge. The city-state’s regulatory framework is designed to facilitate innovation while mitigating risks, creating a fertile ground for startups and established players alike. In contrast, Hong Kong’s regulatory environment has been perceived as more restrictive, limiting its appeal to innovative companies.

Finally, geopolitical factors cannot be ignored. Singapore’s political stability and business-friendly environment have made it a preferred destination for global crypto operators. While Hong Kong remains a major financial hub, its political situation and closer alignment with mainland China have raised concerns among some crypto operators, prompting them to look elsewhere.

Hong Kong’s Strategy: A Work in Progress

Despite its slower start, Hong Kong is making efforts to catch up with Singapore in the crypto space. The introduction of the VASP licensing regime in 2023 marked a significant step forward, and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has been working to provide more clarity and support for crypto businesses. However, the city still faces several challenges.

One of the biggest hurdles is the perception that Hong Kong’s regulatory environment is overly restrictive. The VASP regime, for example, requires crypto exchanges to comply with stringent anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) requirements, which can be burdensome for smaller operators. Additionally, the slow pace of licensing has frustrated some applicants, leading them to explore opportunities in other jurisdictions.

Another challenge is the competition from mainland China. While Hong Kong has positioned itself as a gateway to China, the mainland’s strict ban on cryptocurrency trading has limited the city’s ability to attract global crypto operators. This has put Hong Kong at a disadvantage compared to Singapore, which has no such restrictions.

That said, Hong Kong has some unique advantages. Its proximity to mainland China and its status as a global financial hub make it an attractive destination for companies looking to tap into the Chinese market. Additionally, the HKMA’s efforts to develop a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and promote blockchain innovation could help the city carve out a niche in the digital asset space.

The Broader Implications: A Win for the Global Crypto Industry

The competition between Singapore and Hong Kong is not just a regional story; it has broader implications for the global crypto industry. As these two financial hubs refine their regulatory frameworks and attract new players, they are helping to drive the growth and maturation of the digital asset ecosystem. Their efforts are setting benchmarks for other jurisdictions, demonstrating that it is possible to balance innovation with investor protection.

For Singapore, the challenge will be to maintain its momentum while addressing new risks and ensuring that its regulatory framework remains fit for purpose. The city-state’s success has attracted a growing number of crypto operators, but this also increases the potential for bad actors to exploit the system. MAS will need to remain vigilant and proactive in its approach to regulation.

For Hong Kong, the challenge will be to overcome its slow start and build a more attractive regulatory environment for crypto businesses. This will require greater clarity and consistency in its rules, as well as a more streamlined licensing process. Additionally, Hong Kong will need to leverage its unique advantages, such as its proximity to China and its status as a global financial hub, to differentiate itself from Singapore.

Conclusion: Singapore’s Winning Formula

Singapore’s rise as a global cryptocurrency hub is a testament to the power of thoughtful and proactive regulation. By balancing risk management with innovation, MAS has created an environment that attracts a diverse range of crypto operators while protecting investors and fostering growth. This approach has not only positioned Singapore as a leader in the digital asset space but has also set a benchmark for other jurisdictions to follow.

While Hong Kong has made strides in recent years, it still has a long way to go to catch up with Singapore. The city’s slow pace of licensing and restrictive regulatory environment have limited its appeal to crypto operators, giving Singapore a significant edge. However, with the right reforms and a renewed focus on innovation, Hong Kong has the potential to become a major player in the crypto space.

Ultimately, the competition between Singapore and Hong Kong is a win for the global crypto industry. As these two financial hubs continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the digital asset space, they are helping to shape the future of finance. For now, however, Singapore remains the undisputed leader, setting the standard for what a crypto-friendly jurisdiction can achieve.

 

 

Source: https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44695782/why-singapore-outpaces-hong-kong-in-attracting-crypto-operators

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j

Market wrap: A tale of tariffs, Bitcoin whales, and corporate crypto adoption

Market wrap: A tale of tariffs, Bitcoin whales, and corporate crypto adoption

The financial world is buzzing with a mix of cautious optimism and underlying tension. I’m here to break it all down with as much detail and clarity as I can muster. From President Trump’s tariff policy flip-flops to a massive Bitcoin withdrawal from a major exchange, and the growing corporate appetite for cryptocurrency, there’s a lot to dissect. Let’s dive in.

Global risk sentiment has seen a notable uptick in recent days, largely driven by signals from the Trump administration that suggest a potential softening of trade tensions. Trump’s floating of a possible pause on auto tariffs has injected a dose of relief into markets already buoyed by his earlier suspension of levies on certain consumer electronics.

These temporary exemptions across select sectors have sparked hope among investors that there might be room for negotiation with key trading partners, particularly in Europe and Asia. However, Trump’s frequent policy reversals—shifting from aggressive tariff threats to conciliatory gestures—have kept investors on edge. The unpredictability of his trade strategy has become a hallmark of his administration, and while markets have welcomed the latest reprieve, there’s an underlying wariness that the pendulum could swing back toward confrontation at any moment.

Adding to the trade narrative, the US Commerce Department has initiated probes into semiconductor and pharmaceutical imports, signaling that the administration is far from done with its protectionist agenda. These sectors are critical to global supply chains, and any tariffs imposed here could have far-reaching implications, particularly for tech-heavy markets such as South Korea and Taiwan, as well as pharmaceutical hubs in Europe and India.

The prospect of new tariffs has already stirred unease in Asian markets, though early trading today saw a lift in equities, led by Japan, where the Nikkei 225 gained 1.1 per cent on hopes of broader tariff exemptions. Meanwhile, US equity index futures are pointing to a slightly softer open, with a projected dip of 0.2 per cent, reflecting the mixed sentiment that’s pervading global markets.

On the macroeconomic front, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has sought to calm nerves following a recent selloff in the bond market. Yields on US Treasuries fell sharply today, with the 10-year yield dropping 11.6 basis points to 4.37 per cent and the two-year yield declining 11.5 basis points to 3.85 per cent. Bessent dismissed speculation that foreign nations, such as China or Japan, were offloading their US Treasury holdings en masse, a rumour that had gained traction amid heightened trade tensions. His comments provided some reassurance, but the bond market’s volatility underscores the broader uncertainty that investors are grappling with.

The US Dollar Index, meanwhile, continued its downward trajectory, shedding 0.5 per cent today, while gold, often a safe-haven asset in times of uncertainty, consolidated its recent gains with a modest 0.8 per cent decline. Brent crude oil, hovering around US$65 per barrel, eked out a 0.2 per cent gain, buoyed by optimism over potential tariff relief.

Shifting gears to the cryptocurrency space, a significant development has caught the attention of market watchers: a massive withdrawal of 1,000 Bitcoin (BTC), valued at over US$84 million, from the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. According to blockchain monitoring firm Whale Alert, the transaction occurred late on April 14, with the funds moved to an unknown wallet.

This kind of movement often sparks speculation in the crypto community, as large withdrawals by so-called “whales” can signal a variety of intentions—ranging from long-term holding (a bullish sign) to preparation for a major sale (a potential bearish signal). Given the timing, however, this withdrawal aligns with a broader wave of optimism in the crypto market, as Bitcoin and other altcoins are showing signs of a potential price recovery.

Bitcoin has indeed been on a tear in recent days, with CoinMarketCap data showing a 1.98 per cent price increase and a staggering 25.82 per cent surge in trading volume over the past 24 hours as of April 15. This uptick comes after a period of consolidation following a slump that saw BTC dip below US$80,000 earlier this month. The renewed interest from both retail and institutional investors is palpable, and key metrics—such as trading volume and on-chain activity—are painting a bullish picture.

Analysts are increasingly optimistic, with price targets ranging from US$132,000 (as predicted by Jamie Coutts) to an ambitious US$250,000 (projected by Charles Hoskinson) by the end of 2025 or into 2026. These projections reflect a growing belief that Bitcoin is solidifying its status as a store of value, often dubbed “digital gold,” especially in a world where macroeconomic uncertainty is driving demand for alternative assets.

However, the crypto market isn’t without its challenges, and regulatory developments are casting a shadow over the sector. A recent post from Eleanor Terrett on X highlighted that the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has delayed its decision on allowing WisdomTreeFunds and VanEck to process in-kind creations and redemptions for their Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs until June 3.

For those unfamiliar, “in-kind” transactions involve exchanging the underlying assets (such as Bitcoin or Ethereum) directly, without converting to cash—a mechanism that helps investors avoid taxable events while maintaining liquidity and price stability. The SEC’s hesitation stems from concerns raised during the Gary Gensler era, where the regulator prioritised cash creations to limit tax advantages, even though in-kind transactions are often more efficient for ETF operations. This delay underscores the ongoing tug-of-war between innovation in the crypto space and the regulatory framework that governs it, a tension that continues to shape the market’s evolution.

On a more positive note, corporate adoption of Bitcoin is gaining momentum, a trend that’s bolstering the bullish sentiment. Strategy (formerly known as MicroStrategy) made headlines today with its latest purchase of 3,459 BTC for US$285.8 million, bringing its total holdings to an impressive 531,644 Bitcoin as of April 15.

This acquisition, at an average price of approximately US$82,600 per Bitcoin, reaffirms Strategy’s position as one of the largest corporate holders of the cryptocurrency. The company’s aggressive accumulation strategy has been a bellwether for institutional interest in Bitcoin, and its success has inspired other firms to follow suit. Japanese firm Metaplanet, Semler Scientific, and even GameStop have joined the corporate Bitcoin adoption trend, collectively contributing to a 16.11 per cent quarter-over-quarter increase in public company Bitcoin holdings, which now stand at 694,453 BTC—or 3.3 per cent of the total supply.

This surge in corporate adoption has been facilitated by a significant regulatory shift: the SEC’s decision to drop Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121 (SAB 121), a rule that previously made crypto custody financially unattractive for public companies. SAB 121 required firms to record crypto holdings as liabilities on their balance sheets, a requirement that deterred many from entering the space. With this hurdle removed, companies are now more willing to allocate capital to Bitcoin, viewing it as a hedge against inflation and a potential driver of shareholder value. Strategy’s success, in particular, has been a proof of concept—since it began accumulating Bitcoin in 2020, the company’s stock has soared, often outperforming the cryptocurrency itself on a risk-adjusted basis.

From my perspective, the convergence of these macro and crypto developments paints a picture of a market at a crossroads. On one hand, the improving global risk sentiment and signs of tariff relief are providing a tailwind for equities and risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. The MSCI US index’s 0.8 per cent gain today, led by a 2.2 per cent surge in the Real Estate sector, reflects this optimism, as does the resilience of Asian equities.

On the other hand, the specter of new tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, coupled with the SEC’s cautious approach to crypto ETFs, reminds us that structural risks remain. The crypto market, in particular, is a microcosm of this duality—while Bitcoin’s bullish metrics and corporate adoption are encouraging, the massive whale withdrawal and regulatory delays highlight the volatility and uncertainty that still define the space.

I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and caution about where we’re headed. Bitcoin’s trajectory, in particular, feels like a litmus test for the broader adoption of digital assets. The fact that companies such as Strategy and Metaplanet are doubling down on BTC amid trade war concerns suggests that corporate treasuries see it as a viable hedge against macroeconomic turbulence—a narrative that’s gaining traction. Yet, the SEC’s delay on in-kind ETF creations is a reminder that the path to mainstream acceptance is fraught with regulatory hurdles. For investors, the key will be to navigate this landscape with a clear-eyed understanding of both the opportunities and the risks.

In conclusion, today’s market wrap reveals a world where hope and uncertainty coexist in equal measure. Trump’s tariff reprieve has lifted spirits, but the threat of new levies looms large. Bitcoin’s resurgence and corporate adoption are bright spots in the crypto space, but whale movements and regulatory delays serve as sobering reminders of the sector’s volatility.

 

Source: https://e27.co/market-wrap-a-tale-of-tariffs-bitcoin-whales-and-corporate-crypto-adoption-20250415/

 

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j

From tariffs to Powell’s speech: Will crypto dips and stocks rally?

From tariffs to Powell’s speech: Will crypto dips and stocks rally?

The recovery in global risk sentiment, spurred by US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs (except for China), brought a much-needed sigh of relief to equity markets. Yet, beneath the surface, there’s a nagging sense that we’re not out of the woods. The bond market’s volatility, surging inflation expectations, and a weakening consumer sentiment all point to deeper uncertainties that could shape the trajectory of the global economy in the weeks and months ahead.

Let’s unpack this week’s developments and what they mean for investors, consumers, and policymakers.

The US equity markets staged an impressive rebound last week, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbing five per cent, the S&P 500 gaining 5.7 per cent, and the Nasdaq Composite surging 7.5 per cent. These gains came after a tumultuous period where markets were rattled by fears of an escalating trade war, particularly between the US and China. Trump’s decision to pause tariffs for 90 days on most trading partners, allowing time for negotiations, was a pivotal moment. It signaled a potential de-escalation, at least temporarily, and markets responded with enthusiasm. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), often called Wall Street’s “fear gauge,” reflected this shift, dropping to 37 after spiking above 50 earlier in the week. That’s still elevated compared to historical norms, suggesting investors remain on edge, but it’s a far cry from the panic levels seen during the height of the tariff uncertainty.

The bond market told a different story. The selloff in US Treasuries was striking, with the 10-year Treasury yield jumping nine basis points to 4.48 per cent and the two-year yield climbing 12 basis points to 3.97 per cent. This was the largest weekly surge in yields in over two decades, a clear signal that investors are bracing for higher inflation and possibly tighter monetary policy. The ongoing US-China trade war, despite the tariff pause for other nations, continues to stoke fears of supply chain disruptions and rising costs. When goods become more expensive due to tariffs, businesses often pass those costs onto consumers, fueling inflation. The bond market’s reaction suggests that investors are betting on this scenario playing out, even if equities are basking in the tariff reprieve for now.

The US Dollar Index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, closed lower last week, adding another layer of complexity. A weaker dollar typically supports commodities priced in dollars, and we saw that dynamic play out with gold soaring past US$3,200 per ounce, a two per cent gain for the week. Gold’s rally wasn’t just about a softer dollar—it was also driven by recession fears and the safe-haven demand that kicks in when trade wars escalate. Similarly, Brent crude oil jumped 2.26 per cent to settle at US$65 per barrel, buoyed by comments from US Energy Secretary Chris Wright about potentially ending Iran’s oil exports to pressure the country over its nuclear programme. Geopolitical tensions, layered on top of trade uncertainties, are keeping energy markets volatile, and that’s something I’ll be watching closely in the weeks ahead.

On the economic data front, the picture is sobering. The University of Michigan’s preliminary consumer sentiment index for April plummeted 11 per cent to 50.8, its lowest level since June 2022. This sharp decline reflects growing anxiety among Americans about the economic fallout from tariffs, rising prices, and uncertainty about jobs and growth. Even more concerning is the surge in inflation expectations, with the one-year outlook hitting 6.7 per cent, the highest since 1981. That’s a staggering figure, and it underscores the psychological impact of the trade war rhetoric and policy shifts. When consumers expect prices to keep rising, they may pull back on spending or demand higher wages, both of which can create a feedback loop that drives inflation higher. For the Federal Reserve, this is a nightmare scenario—balancing growth, inflation, and now trade-driven disruptions.

Over the weekend, the Trump administration added a twist by exempting smartphones, computers, and other tech devices from reciprocal tariffs. This move was a relief for markets, particularly in Asia, where tech supply chains are heavily integrated. Asian equity indices traded higher in early sessions today, and US equity futures pointed to a positive open. The exemption makes sense from a consumer perspective—hitting tech products with tariffs would have driven up prices for everyday goods such as iPhones and laptops, risking a backlash. But it also highlights the delicate balancing act the administration is trying to perform: projecting strength on trade while avoiding self-inflicted economic wounds. I suspect this exemption is a pragmatic nod to the reality that tech is the backbone of modern economies, and disrupting it too severely could backfire.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s upcoming speech. Investors are desperate for clarity on how the Fed plans to navigate this inflationary environment, especially with consumer sentiment tanking and inflation expectations soaring. Powell has been cagey in recent comments, emphasising that the Fed is monitoring trade policies closely. If he signals a hawkish tilt—perhaps hinting at pausing rate cuts or even tightening policy to combat inflation—it could dampen the equity rally. Conversely, a dovish stance might boost stocks but risks fueling inflation further. It’s a tightrope walk, and Powell’s words will carry immense weight.

China’s first-quarter GDP and monthly activity data, due this week, will also be critical. The trade war with the US is undoubtedly weighing on China’s economy, and weaker-than-expected numbers could reignite fears of a global slowdown. Given that several markets will be closed for Good Friday, trading volumes may be thinner, potentially amplifying any market moves. My sense is that investors are in a wait-and-see mode, parsing every headline for clues about the direction of trade talks and monetary policy.

The cryptocurrency market, meanwhile, has been a mixed bag. Bitcoin slipped more than two per cent on Sunday, trading at US$83,482 during Asian hours. Ethereum fell below US$1,600, and altcoins showed varied performance. The crypto market’s sensitivity to trade policy signals is intriguing—when tariffs on Chinese electronics were floated, digital assets wobbled, likely because of fears that supply chain disruptions could hit mining hardware or broader tech sentiment. Yet, Bitcoin advocate Michael Saylor remains undeterred, using social media to double down on his “Buy the Future” mantra. His latest post, timed with Bitcoin’s brief rally to US$83,246, underscores his belief that cryptocurrencies are a hedge against economic chaos. I’m skeptical about Bitcoin’s role as a reliable safe haven—it’s still too volatile and sentiment-driven—but Saylor’s conviction is a reminder of the passionate community behind it.

Ethereum’s technical picture offers some hope for bulls. After finding support at US$1,449 last week, it’s hovering around US$1,638. A close above US$1,700 could spark a rally toward US$1,861, supported by a Relative Strength Index (RSI) that’s climbing toward neutral territory. But the risk of a drop to US$1,300 looms if support breaks. XRP, meanwhile, is showing resilience, stabilizing at US$2.14 after a 14.28 per cent recovery. A break above US$2.23 could push it toward US$2.50, though it needs to hold above its 200-day EMA to sustain momentum. These technical levels matter for traders, but the bigger driver for crypto will be macro developments—trade policies, Fed signals, and global growth.

As I reflect on this week, my view is one of cautious optimism tempered by realism. The tariff pause and tech exemptions are positive steps, but the underlying tensions—US-China trade frictions, inflation fears, and consumer unease—aren’t going away. Equities may continue to climb if trade talks show progress, but the bond market’s warning signs and weak consumer sentiment suggest fragility. Gold’s strength and crypto’s volatility reflect a market searching for anchors in uncertain times. For investors, diversification and vigilance are key. For policymakers, the challenge is to avoid tipping the economy into recession while addressing legitimate trade concerns.

 

Source: https://e27.co/from-tariffs-to-powells-speech-will-crypto-dips-and-stocks-rally-20250414/

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j