<h2>Crypto Liquidations Surge as Bitcoin Plummets Below $100K</h2><a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">Bitcoin</a>’s price took a sharp dive over the weekend, falling below $100,000 and deepening its losses into the next trading session. The steepest drop saw&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">BTC</a> touching $91,163, marking its lowest point in more than three weeks. Market jitters were fueled by growing concerns over escalating trade wars, prompting investors to pull back from riskier assets.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img alt="chart_11zon.jpg" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/chart_11zon_aa4b78aaa0.jpg"></figure>Bitcoin had struggled to hold above $108,000 on January 20, indicating weak buy-side pressure before eventually slipping beneath $99,000. It later tested support levels between $92,000 and $96,000, highlighting the internal supply zones where traders sought to stabilize the market.<a href="https://coin360.com/review/bybit">Bybit</a> CEO Ben Zhou projected that total liquidations in the crypto market could range between $8 billion and $10 billion, a figure significantly higher than the previous $2.24 billion reported in 24-hour liquidations on February 3. More than 730,000 traders saw their positions wiped out, with the largest single&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/understanding-liquidation-crypto-trading-guide">liquidation</a> order reaching $25.6 million on&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/review/binance">Binance</a>’s&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/ethereum-eth">ETH</a>/BTC trading pair.&nbsp;<div class="raw-html-embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am afraid that today real total liquidation is a lot more than $2B, by my estimation it should be at least around $8-10b. FYI, Bybit 24hr liquidation alone was $2.1B, As you can see in below screenshot, Bybit 24hr liquidations recorded on Coinglass was around $333m, however,… <a href="https://t.co/4WLkPxTYF4">https://t.co/4WLkPxTYF4</a> <a href="https://t.co/woTOHQvNkt">pic.twitter.com/woTOHQvNkt</a>— Ben Zhou (@benbybit) <a href="https://twitter.com/benbybit/status/1886393172152156604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Despite the bloodbath, some traders capitalized on the downturn, including one who secured nearly $16 million from a 50x leveraged short position, underscoring the volatility-driven profit opportunities in crypto.The fallout from Bitcoin’s decline was not limited to the digital asset market. Asian crypto-related stocks mirrored the slump, with Japan’s Metaplanet dropping 9.44%, SBI Holdings falling 3.60%, and Hong Kong-listed OSL Group shedding 2.69%. Boyaa, Asia’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder, also suffered a 4.64% decline.&nbsp;These losses outpaced broader market movements, as the Nikkei 225 slid 2.66% while the Hang Seng Index remained largely flat, down just 0.04%. Meanwhile, U.S. stock&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/futures-contracts">futures</a> signaled additional turbulence, pointing to a rough start for Wall Street’s trading week.Tensions in the global economy played a critical role in the broader sell-off. U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, alongside a 10% tariff on Chinese goods. In response, Canada retaliated with a 25% tariff on CA$155 billion worth of U.S. imports, while Mexico also vowed countermeasures. China escalated its stance by filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization and preparing additional tariffs of its own.&nbsp;Trump has hinted at extending tariffs to the European Union, triggering warnings from EU leaders such as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/politics/2025/02/03/donald-trump-hitting-eu-with-10pc-tariffs-on-imported/">suggested</a> a retaliatory tariff hike of 50% or more on U.S. goods. Amid the heated trade landscape, Trump called the UK “out of line,” as he&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/COIN360com/status/1886391892776239252">left the door open</a> for negotiations. The uncertainty led to a sharp pullback in risk assets, with crypto markets reacting swiftly to the potential macroeconomic fallout.Wintermute CEO Evgeny Gaevoy&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/EvgenyGaevoy/status/1886254989011509294">dismissed</a> speculation that Bitcoin’s price drop was manipulated, emphasizing that the downturn was a direct consequence of traditional finance events.&nbsp;“Understanding that our little crypto market is now very directly linked to the real world outside […] is pretty essential to being a (more) successful trader,” Gaevoy noted, underscoring the increasing connection between digital assets and macroeconomic factors.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/wintermute_tweet_5ca3fbb146.png" alt="wintermute tweet.png"><figcaption>Source: X</figcaption></figure>He refuted claims that major crypto firms were deliberately triggering liquidations, instead pointing to inventory management strategies that can amplify volatility during downturns. Institutional trading patterns have played a role in past crashes, as seen in August 2024, when five major market makers offloaded 130,000 ETH worth $290 million.Despite the recent turmoil, some analysts see a longer-term bullish case for Bitcoin. Jeff Park, a strategist at Bitwise,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/dgt10011/status/1886125163642552606">argued</a> that Trump’s tariff policies could ultimately accelerate Bitcoin’s growth. Citing the Triffin dilemma, Park suggested that U.S. policymakers may need to weaken the dollar to maintain global trade demand. He believes the administration’s moves are designed to push foreign nations toward de-dollarization, which could, in turn, lead to lower U.S. bond yields and a reduced reliance on external investment.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img alt="bitwise analyst tweet" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1886125163642552606_11zon_45d91cd2ff.jpg"><figcaption>Source: X</figcaption></figure>If tariffs continue to disrupt global trade, Park predicts that Bitcoin will emerge as a key hedge against inflation and fiat devaluation.&nbsp;“As the world enters a sustained tariff war, the demand for Bitcoin will skyrocket,” he projected.Historically, Bitcoin has thrived around the Lunar New Year, posting gains in 83% of past cycles. However, this year’s economic uncertainties may disrupt its decade-long bullish trend during the holiday period.&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitget-token-bgb">Bitget</a> chief analyst Ryan Lee cautioned that macroeconomic fears, rather than speculative trading, are driving the current downturn. Over the past week, Bitcoin has shed 6.3% of its value, though Park maintains that the ongoing economic shifts could ultimately strengthen Bitcoin’s long-term appeal.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

A robot surfs a digital wave of liquidated crypto trades

A robot surfs a digital wave of liquidated crypto trades_11zon.webp

Bitcoin’s Market Crash Shakes Crypto and TradFi Amid Trade War Fears

<h2>Utah Moves to Become First U.S. State with Bitcoin Reserves After 8-1 Vote</h2>Utah is poised to become the first U.S. state to adopt Bitcoin reserves following the approval of a bill in the Utah House, which received an 8-1 vote. The bill allows the state to invest a portion of public funds in digital assets with a market cap over $500 billion and includes approved&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/stablecoin">stablecoins</a> as investment options. This legislative effort is expedited by Utah's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewfhF7m9xhg">45-day legislative calendar</a>, which is unmatched in speed and momentum compared to other states. The move has garnered significant political will, with Senator Cynthia Lummis and Dennis Porter from the Satoshi Action Fund emphasizing Utah's leading role in the Bitcoin initiative.&nbsp;Notably, every recent bill from the House Economic Development Committee has become law, bolstering confidence in this proposal's success. Arizona is the only other state at a similar legislative stage, while states like Alabama and Florida have shown public support but lack formal proposals.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Thailand SEC to Launch Blockchain Platform for Tokenized Debt Trading</h2>Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to launch a blockchain-based trading platform to enable securities firms to trade debt instruments via digital tokens, enhancing the efficiency of the local capital market. Deputy Secretary-General Jomkwan Kongsakul emphasized that the platform aims to reduce the current 14-day delay in trading bonds from the primary to secondary market by digitalizing settlement, trading, and investor registration processes. The initiative will introduce two types of digital securities: traditional bonds converted into digital form and electronic securities designed specifically for the new platform.&nbsp;The SEC has already approved four digital token projects and is reviewing two additional ones. Furthermore, private sector firms may develop independent chains as long as they comply with SEC standards. The project is part of Thailand's broader goal to modernize financial infrastructure in response to growing interest in tokenized investments and digital assets.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Kraken and Coinbase Secure Regulatory Approvals to Expand Services in EU and UK</h2>On February 3, 2025,&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/exchange/kraken">Kraken</a> and Coinbase, prominent U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchanges, secured crucial regulatory approvals to expand their services in the European Union and the UK. Kraken obtained a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) license by acquiring a Cypriot investment firm, enabling it to offer compliant derivatives products to advanced crypto traders in specific EU markets. Meanwhile, Coinbase was granted a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registration from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority, allowing it to provide crypto and fiat services in the UK.&nbsp;This expansion is timely as the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations will become effective in late 2024, with the UK's comprehensive crypto regulatory framework expected in early 2025. Shannon Kurtas, Kraken's Co-GM, emphasized the acquisition's reflection of their confidence in the EU market and their dedication to creating a regulated environment for traders and investors.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>India Introduces 70% Penalty on Undisclosed Crypto Gains Under New Tax Amendments</h2>India's new crypto tax amendments impose a hefty 70% penalty on undisclosed cryptocurrency gains, effective retroactively from February 1, 2025. Classified under Section 158B of the Income Tax Act, these regulations highlight the government's commitment to increasing tax compliance and transparency in digital assets, equating crypto profits to traditional assets like jewelry and bullion. Traders who have not reported crypto profits since 2021 may face severe penalties and backdated tax liabilities.&nbsp;The government also mandates reporting from cryptocurrency exchanges, responding to concerns regarding unpaid crypto taxes totaling $97 million as of December 2024. Major exchanges like&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/review/bybit">Bybit</a> have already suspended services in India due to heightened regulatory pressures, leading to increased uncertainty in the market.&nbsp;<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Russia Launches Online Reporting for Digital Currency Miners in Taxpayer Accounts</h2>On February 3, 2025, the Federal Tax Service of Russia announced a new functionality in taxpayers' personal accounts, allowing users to report the receipt of digital currency through an online service. This initiative aligns with the federal law on digital financial assets and cryptocurrency, obligating miners to report mined currencies by the 20th of the month following their acquisition. Taxpayers, including individuals and legal entities engaged in cryptocurrency mining, must utilize a qualified electronic signature to access this feature.&nbsp;For individuals, reporting can be done in the "Mining" section, while legal entities will report in the "Mining of Digital Currency" section. Additionally, individual entrepreneurs and legal entities can submit reports only if they are registered in the official registry of miners and operators, ensuring compliance with the new regulatory requirements established for the taxation of digital currency in Russia.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Tokenized debt trading, robot at futuristic holographic blockchain terminal

Tokenized debt trading, robot at futuristic holographic blockchain terminal_11zon.webp

Regulators Tighten Crypto Laws: India’s 70% Crypto Tax, Utah’s Bitcoin Bet, and EU Approvals

<h2>El Salvador Buys 50 More Bitcoin, Adjusts Policies to Meet IMF Loan Conditions</h2>El Salvador has&nbsp;<a href="https://bitcoin.gob.sv/">purchased</a> an additional 50 Bitcoin in the past month, raising its total holdings to approximately 6,056&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">BTC</a>, valued over $601 million. This acquisition reflects the country's enduring commitment to Bitcoin, despite adjustments to comply with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions attached to a $1.4 billion loan agreement. Policy changes include making Bitcoin acceptance voluntary for businesses, eliminating tax payments in BTC, and phasing out the state-supported Chivo&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/crypto-wallets">wallet</a>.&nbsp;The IMF has consistently voiced concerns regarding the potential financial instability linked to Bitcoin adoption. Nevertheless, El Salvador is advancing its initiative to enhance Bitcoin education and training in the public sector. The country’s favorable regulatory environment has attracted major players like stablecoin issuer&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/tether-usdt">Tether</a>, which has relocated its headquarters to El Salvador.&nbsp;<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Bitcoin ETFs Hit Record $5.25B Inflows in January, Led by BlackRock's IBIT</h2>In January 2025, U.S. Bitcoin ETFs saw record net inflows of $5.25 billion, a rise from $4.53 billion in December 2024. BlackRock's IBIT ETF led this surge with impressive inflows of $3.23 billion, bringing its total net assets to $59.39 billion, a significant increase of $7.67 billion for the month. Fidelity's FBTC ETF followed, attracting $1.28 billion in January and growing its assets from $18.87 billion to $21.76 billion.&nbsp;Analysts anticipate that inflows for 2025 could exceed $50 billion, despite ongoing market volatility and a 4.2% decline in Bitcoin's price, which hovered around $95,500. This trend highlights the growing institutional interest in Bitcoin as it continues to gain legitimacy and popularity as an investment asset, even alongside traditional market uncertainties. The competitive environment between leading firms like BlackRock and Fidelity underscores the increasing demand for Bitcoin investment products.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Parents Favor Bitcoin Over 529 Plans as a Hedge Against Inflation</h2>More American parents are increasingly choosing Bitcoin over traditional 529 college savings plans, viewing it as a long-term investment and a hedge against inflation. This shift is attributed to Bitcoin's impressive growth, with prices surging to nearly $110,000 in 2025—up 500% from its 2022 low of under $20,000. While some parents completely replace 529 plans with Bitcoin, others see it as a diversification strategy, believing their children can handle market fluctuations before accessing tuition funds. Financial expert Rajat Soni suggests investing $10-$100 monthly in Bitcoin over 18 years for significant future benefits.&nbsp;However, selecting Bitcoin means forgoing tax advantages associated with 529 plans. Institutional interest has grown, with over 70 companies holding 600,000 BTC. Experts highlight Bitcoin's decentralized nature, fixed supply, and potential to become a superior financial asset, possibly reaching a&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/market-capitalization">market cap</a> of $15 trillion by 2035, challenging traditional investments like US Treasury bonds.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Humanoid robot gives Bitcoin token to a child in dreamscape

Humanoid robot gives Bitcoin token to a child in dreamscape_11zon.webp

Bitcoin Adoption Surges: El Salvador Expands Holdings, ETFs Hit Record $5.25B

<h2>UBS Trials Tokenized Gold on ZKSync, Paving the Way for Blockchain in Banking</h2>Swiss banking giant UBS recently conducted a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) trial of its Key4 Gold product on the&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/ethereum-eth">Ethereum</a> Layer-2 network&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/zksync-zk">ZKSync</a>, aiming to enhance gold investment frameworks while ensuring user privacy and operational efficiency. The trial involved scaling challenges related to high transaction volumes and the need for customer data protection. By utilizing ZKSync’s Validium mode, which allows for off-chain data storage, UBS achieved improved transaction speed and efficiency.&nbsp;The completed test allows for unlimited transaction volumes and enables clients to physically receive their gold. This initiative reflects UBS's commitment to exploring blockchain solutions, positioning tokenized gold investments as commercially viable.&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/blockchain">Blockchain</a> experts regard this advancement as significant for the future of financial systems, with UBS’s efforts signaling a trend towards decentralized technology adoption in traditional banking operations, highlighting increased interest in&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/web3-companies-projects">Web3</a> solutions.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Grayscale Launches Dogecoin Trust, Enhancing Investment Opportunities for DOGE</h2>Grayscale Investments has launched the Grayscale&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/dogecoin-doge">Dogecoin</a> Trust, offering investors a new opportunity to gain exposure to Dogecoin (<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/dogecoin-doge">DOGE</a>). This single-asset trust reflects the evolution of Dogecoin from a meme to a tool for financial inclusion, promoting faster, cheaper transactions and greater accessibility. Grayscale's Head of Product &amp; Research, Rayhaneh Sharif-Askary, stated that Dogecoin serves as a derivative of&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">Bitcoin</a> that helps underserved communities engage with the financial system. The Trust is now open for daily subscriptions to eligible accredited investors, ensuring direct exposure to DOGE.&nbsp;Furthermore, the Dogecoin ecosystem is expanding through initiatives led by the Dogecoin Foundation, which aims to develop open-source tools to enhance the cryptocurrency's utility in real-world applications, particularly in sectors like remittances. These developments position Dogecoin as a viable option for retail transactions, aiming to reduce reliance on exploitative financial intermediaries.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>21Shares Seeks SEC Approval for Spot Polkadot ETF Amid Market Challenges</h2>21Shares has submitted a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2054247/000121390025008848/ea0229226-s1_21shares.htm">filing</a> to the U.S. SEC for approval of a spot&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/polkadot-dot">Polkadot</a> ETF, anticipated to be listed on the Cboe BZX Exchange, with&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/review/coinbase">Coinbase</a> serving as the custodian for&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/polkadot-dot">DOT</a> holdings. This initiative builds on 21Shares' earlier achievement of launching the first Polkadot exchange-traded product in Switzerland. However, the Polkadot market faces challenges, as the cryptocurrency has seen a 5.16% decline over the past year and a 10.48% drop in the last month.&nbsp;The filing indicates that the ETF's success hinges on Polkadot's market performance and warns that future price growth is uncertain. Negative reactions on social media have emerged surrounding this ETF proposal. The surge in crypto ETF filings follows the departure of SEC Chair Gary Gensler, suggesting optimism for a favorable regulatory environment for digital assets moving forward, potentially expanding investment opportunities for traditional investors.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Cubic robot tosses Dogecoin in dreamy pastel clay-like landscape

Cubic robot tosses Dogecoin in dreamy pastel clay-like landscape_11zon.webp

Institutional Crypto Boom: UBS, Grayscale, and 21Shares Lead Innovations

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its influence is felt across numerous industries, with online casinos being no exception. This transformation is reshaping how games are developed and experienced by players. Understanding AI's impact on this sector provides insights into both current trends and future possibilities.Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a pivotal force in reshaping industries worldwide. From healthcare to finance, its capabilities are driving innovation and efficiency. In various sectors, including <a href="https://starcasino.be/home/slots">online casino</a> platforms, AI holds the potential to redefine user experiences and operational processes. With its ability to analyse vast amounts of data, AI offers unparalleled opportunities for personalisation and security in gaming environments.<h2>AI's Role in Enhancing User Experience</h2>AI is revolutionising online casinos through personalised gaming experiences. By analysing player behaviour and preferences, AI algorithms can offer tailored game recommendations and promotions. This level of customisation enhances player engagement, making each session more enjoyable and interactive.With the integration of AI, online casino platforms can now provide a more immersive experience tailored to individual players. As these algorithms learn from user interactions, they continuously refine the gaming options presented to players, ensuring that each recommendation aligns with their interests. This not only increases player satisfaction but also encourages longer play sessions and loyalty.Furthermore, personalised experiences extend beyond game selection. Players are now enjoying customised promotions that cater specifically to their gaming habits and preferences. This approach not only boosts engagement but also fosters a deeper connection between players and the platform, ultimately leading to a richer gaming experience.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Improving Game Fairness and Security</h2>Ensuring fairness in gaming is crucial for maintaining trust within the online casino industry. AI plays a vital role in this aspect by detecting and preventing fraudulent activities. Through sophisticated algorithms, potential threats can be identified quickly, ensuring that all players have a fair chance of winning.&nbsp;The enhancement of security measures is another significant benefit of AI technology. It offers robust protection against cyber threats that could compromise both casino operations and player data. With advanced monitoring systems in place, suspicious activities are flagged promptly, reducing the risk of data breaches and financial fraud.&nbsp;Trust is fundamental in any gambling environment, and with AI's contribution to improving fairness and security, online casinos can build stronger relationships with their users. By prioritising safe and equitable gaming experiences, platforms can enhance their reputation and attract a broader audience.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>AI in Game Development and Innovation</h2>Game development has seen remarkable advancements thanks to AI innovations. These technologies enable developers to create more immersive and interactive games that captivate players' attention. With realistic graphics and dynamic environments powered by AI, the gaming experience becomes even more engaging.Adaptive gameplay is another area where AI shines, providing players with unique experiences based on their actions within a game. For instance, as you engage with different <a href="https://starcasino.be/home/classicdice">dice games</a> on an online platform, the game's difficulty level might adjust according to your skill set, keeping you constantly challenged.This level of innovation extends beyond individual games; it encompasses entire platforms that leverage AI for continuous improvement. As new technologies emerge, developers are poised to introduce even more groundbreaking features that redefine what online gambling can offer.&nbsp;<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Challenges and Considerations&nbsp;</h2>Despite its numerous benefits, the implementation of AI in online casinos does not come without challenges. Data privacy remains a significant concern as platforms must ensure that sensitive information is handled responsibly. Additionally, algorithmic bias could lead to unfair advantages or disadvantages for certain players if not addressed adequately.Transparency in AI usage is crucial for maintaining player trust. Platforms must openly communicate how these technologies operate within their systems while adhering to regulatory standards. This approach ensures that users feel confident about engaging with an AI-driven environment.Efforts are ongoing to address these challenges through collaboration among industry leaders and regulatory bodies. By prioritising ethical practices alongside technological advancements, the industry aims to foster responsible AI deployment while maximising its potential benefits.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>The Future of AI in Online Casinos</h2>The future holds exciting possibilities for AI's role within online casinos as technology continues advancing at an unprecedented pace. New trends may emerge that further transform how games are played or even introduce entirely new business models.A key factor will be staying informed about these developments so platforms can adapt swiftly when necessary—ensuring they remain competitive amidst evolving market demands while delivering exceptional gaming experiences tailored specifically to individual preferences.In summary, AI's transformative power is reshaping various aspects of the online casino industry, from enhancing user engagement through personalisation efforts to bolstering security protocols. Recognising current impacts and anticipating future shifts will ultimately benefit both operators and dedicated enthusiasts worldwide who seek unparalleled entertainment value in modern digital realms.&nbsp;

AI's Transformative Role in the Online Casino Industry

AI's Transformative Role in the Online Casino Industry_11zon.jpg

AI's Transformative Role in the Online Casino Industry 

<h2>Insider Claims, Investor Fury, and Market Meltdown</h2><a href="https://dexscreener.com/solana/exygvxvrvujjryo65vyuhlaccxhwyztkqa7jxqit2tvr">Hawk Tuah (HAWK)</a>, a memecoin spearheaded by influencer Hailey Welch, ignited controversy within the cryptocurrency community after a dramatic rise and crash following its December 4 launch. HAWK initially saw an astonishing surge in&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/market-capitalization">market capitalization</a>, peaking at $490 million before collapsing by 91% within hours, plunging the price to $0.002627. The fallout has left the coin valued at $26.3 million, sparking allegations of market manipulation and insider profiteering.<figure class="image"><img alt="dexscreener.com_HAWK_SOL_2024-12-06_01-16-54.png" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/dexscreener_com_HAWK_SOL_2024_12_06_01_16_54_6121eb5ac6.png"><figcaption>Source: Dexscreener</figcaption></figure><a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/blockchain">Blockchain</a> analytics from&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/bubblemaps/status/1864439521523196046">Bubblemaps</a> have cast a glaring spotlight on the launch. Data revealed that wallets allegedly linked to insiders controlled 96% of the total supply at launch, a figure later reduced to 79%. One&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/crypto-wallets">wallet</a>, in particular, drew ire after acquiring 17.5% of the total supply for $993,000 and flipping it for $1.3 million, triggering a wave of sell-offs. High transaction fees, purportedly implemented to thwart bots, are now under scrutiny as a potential tool for manipulation.<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:85.44%;"><img alt="tweet_1864439521523196046_20241206_012056_via_10015_io_11zon.jpg" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1864439521523196046_20241206_012056_via_10015_io_11zon_699c4d30dd.jpg"><figcaption>Source: X</figcaption></figure>Welch, addressing the uproar,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HalieyWelchX/status/1864448384326881713">denied</a> wrongdoing. She claimed her team abstained from selling any tokens post-launch and asserted that no influencers received free tokens. Welch further emphasized the use of Meteora, a decentralized platform, to counter bot-driven activities during the launch.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:85.31%;"><img alt="tweet_1864448384326881713_20241206_012342_via_10015_io.png" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1864448384326881713_20241206_012342_via_10015_io_0c87efca5c.png"><figcaption>Source: X</figcaption></figure>Despite her defense, the outrage among investors remains palpable. One investor reported&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/lynk0x/status/1864522405395194039">losing $43,000</a>, while another swapped $1.4 million worth of a different memecoin, incurring a staggering $1.3 million loss during HAWK’s collapse.Criticism escalated when crypto investigator Stephen Findeisen, popularly known as Coffeezilla,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/coffeebreak_YT/status/1864542784167796867">labeled</a> the launch "one of the most miserable and horrible" events in crypto history. In a heated X Spaces debate, Coffeezilla confronted Welch over accusations of insider trading and token sniping. The discussion took a contentious turn when Coffeezilla was removed, fueling further tensions within the community.<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:85.66%;"><img alt="tweet_1864542784167796867_20241206_012710_via_10015_io_11zon.jpg" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1864542784167796867_20241206_012710_via_10015_io_11zon_c56b2b4834.jpg"><figcaption>Source: X</figcaption></figure>The legal and regulatory fallout has been swift. Law firms are stepping in to assist affected investors, and&nbsp;<a href="https://cryptodnes.bg/en/memecoin-skyrockets-before-plummeting-90-sparking-outrage-and-legal-concerns/">complaints</a> have reportedly reached the SEC alleging fraud and manipulation. Meanwhile, Welch pointed to HAWK's&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/tokenomics">tokenomics</a> to counter claims of misconduct, highlighting that 10% of the supply allocated to her team was locked for 12 months with a three-year vesting period, and these tokens remained untouched during the crash.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

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