This Week in Crypto: A Bold Start of the New Year
Reflecting on the past year and embracing the year ahead, this article highlights key events from the final week of 2024 as we transition into 2025.
As we kick off 2025, let’s take a look back at the key events from the first week of the new year. From notable achievements to emerging trends, this week has already set the stage for what promises to be an exciting year ahead, filled with fresh opportunities, challenges, and growth.
Weekly Market Insights: Key Trends in Crypto and Blockchain
Let’s begin by reviewing the progress of the trends observed in the first week of the year.
Weekly Crypto Asset Flows
The conclusion of 2024 set a new milestone for the crypto investment market, with global inflows reaching a record $44.2 billion—nearly four times the previous high set in 2021.
Despite this strong year-end performance, digital asset investment products faced net outflows of $75 million during the final trading week of the year. Here's how the flows unfolded:
Bitcoin (BTC) Spot ETFs: After a challenging week prior with $377.6 million in outflows, BTC spot ETFs rebounded significantly, recording net inflows of $256 million.
Ethereum (ETH) Spot ETFs: In contrast, ETH spot ETFs saw net outflows of $38.1 million, reversing the previous week's impressive inflows of $349.3 million.
These trends highlight the evolving dynamics within the digital asset market as investors recalibrate their strategies heading into 2025.
BTC Hashrate Continues to Break Records
Bitcoin's hashrate has reached record levels, highlighting the network's growing resilience and security. The hashrate, which measures the total computational power used for mining and transaction processing, serves as a key metric of miner activity and network strength.
Historically, the consistent growth of the hashrate has acted as a leading indicator of Bitcoin's price movements. This means that increased investment in mining infrastructure and rising competition among miners often signal upcoming bullish momentum in BTC's price.
The current record-breaking levels reflect strong confidence among miners in Bitcoin's long-term potential, despite market fluctuations. This growth is further driven by the scaling and efficiency of mining operations globally, reinforcing Bitcoin’s status as the leading cryptocurrency.
Ethereum Holding Steady Amid Volatility
Despite ongoing market volatility, Ethereum continues to maintain its position within an upward parallel channel, signaling strength and resilience. This technical pattern indicates that ETH is steadily progressing toward the key $6,000 level.
The upward channel suggests consistent bullish momentum, with buyers stepping in to support price levels during dips. While short-term fluctuations are inevitable, Ethereum's ability to hold this trajectory points to positive market sentiment and growing investor confidence in the asset's long-term potential.
As Ethereum navigates this path, maintaining its position within the channel will be critical to sustaining the journey toward the $6,000 milestone.
Market Cycle Peak Expected by Mid-2025
According to CryptoQuant's CEO, the current Bitcoin bull market has the potential to become the longest in the cryptocurrency's history, driven by new sources of liquidity and sustained market interest.
However, the long-term trend remains downward, suggesting that the market is likely to reach its cycle peak by Q1 2025, or at the latest by Q2 2025.
This perspective highlights the importance for investors to closely monitor macroeconomic indicators and market dynamics, as the expected peak could significantly influence investment strategies in the coming months.
New Yield Opportunities in the Crypto and Blockchain Space
In the first week of 2025, several significant developments have emerged in the cryptocurrency and blockchain sectors, offering new avenues for yield generation and investment.
Binance to List SOLV Token
Binance has announced the listing of Solv Protocol's native token, SOLV, scheduled for January 17, 2025. The token will be available for trading in the following pairs:
SOLV/USDT
SOLV/BNB
SOLV/FDUSD
SOLV/TRY
SOLV will be tagged as "Seed," indicating its status as an early-stage project. Prior to the listing, Binance is conducting a Megadrop event, allowing users to participate by locking BNB and completing Web3 tasks to earn airdrop rewards.
HyperLiquid Introduces Native Staking
HyperLiquid has launched native staking for its HYPE token holders. As of December 30, 2024, approximately $344 million worth of HYPE tokens have been staked, representing a total value of over $9 billion. This initiative enables users to support the network and earn rewards, with staking rewards distributed daily and automatically compounded.
Solayer Foundation Launches Governance Token and Foundation
The Solayer Foundation has introduced $LAYER, the native governance token for the Solayer restaking protocol. The foundation aims to leverage $LAYER to accelerate ecosystem growth and protocol development in a decentralized manner. Additionally, Solayer has launched the Infinisvm blockchain, enhancing its infrastructure to support scalable and efficient restaking operations.
Innovations in Liquid Staking and Fixed Income Products
In 2024, the Total Value Locked (TVL) in the liquid staking market reached $60.1 billion, reflecting significant growth and adoption.
While the landscape of Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs) may appear well-established, innovative projects like Treehouse Protocol are introducing new paradigms. Treehouse offers tETH, a Liquid Staking Token 2.0, designed to enhance yield generation and stabilize fragmented DeFi rates.
Treehouse's approach includes:
Decentralized Offered Rates (DOR): A consensus mechanism to establish robust benchmark rates, forming the foundation of fixed income markets.
Interest Rate Arbitrage: Converging fragmented rates of native chain assets to their risk-free rate, enabling users to earn enhanced yields.
LST 2.0: Allowing users to earn yield on top of native staking rewards by depositing native tokens or Liquid Staking Tokens.
These developments underscore the dynamic nature of the cryptocurrency and blockchain sectors, presenting diverse opportunities for yield generation and investment.
Maximizing Airdrop Farming Profits
Insights and Strategies
To enhance your success in 2025, consider the following strategies:
Diversify Across Multiple Blockchains: Engage with various blockchain networks to increase your chances of qualifying for airdrops. Utilize bridging protocols to transfer assets between chains, expanding your participation.
Participate in Testnet Programs: Many projects offer testnet airdrops to incentivize early testing. Engage with these testnets to position yourself for potential rewards upon mainnet launch.
Stay Informed on Upcoming Airdrops: Regularly monitor reputable sources for announcements of upcoming airdrops. Early awareness allows you to prepare and participate promptly.
Engage with DeFi Platforms: Active participation in decentralized finance platforms can increase your eligibility for airdrops. Engage in activities like staking, liquidity provision, and governance voting.
Automate Airdrop Farming: Utilize automation tools to streamline the process of qualifying for multiple airdrops. This approach can save time and ensure consistent participation.
Maintain a Clean Wallet History: Ensure your wallet addresses are free from suspicious activities, as some projects may disqualify addresses associated with malicious behavior.
Engage with Community Initiatives: Participate in community-driven projects and initiatives, as they often reward active members with airdrops. Engagement can also provide valuable insights into upcoming opportunities.
Focus on Capital Preservation: While pursuing airdrop farming, prioritize the safety and security of your assets. Avoid high-risk investments and ensure you have secure storage solutions for your tokens.
By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your airdrop farming efforts and position yourself for greater success in 2025.
Unlock Top Gaming Airdrops in 2025: Play, Earn, and Level Up!
Elevate your gaming experience in 2025 by participating in the most anticipated gaming airdrops. These opportunities allow you to earn rewards through gameplay—no financial investment required, just your skills and engagement.
◦ Sorare: A fantasy football game combining sports and NFTs. Earn player cards and cryptocurrency rewards.
◦ Nakamoto Games: Play blockchain-based games and earn tokens for your participation.
◦ Champions Tactics: A tactical RPG where strategic play earns valuable rewards.
◦ Metalcore: A sci-fi, action-packed multiplayer online game where you can earn tokens through battles.
◦ Parallel Game: A futuristic trading card game where you can earn cards and crypto rewards by participating in the game.
For more details and a full list of gaming airdrops in 2025, visit Airdrop Alert's Gaming Airdrops 2025.
By engaging with these platforms, you can enhance your gaming experience and earn valuable rewards throughout the year.
NFT Airdrops Are Back: Top Tokens to Watch in 2025
NFT airdrops are making a strong comeback in 2025, with tokens like Magic Eden's $ME and Pudgy Penguins' $PENGU leading the charge. These tokens have garnered significant attention, with $ME's market cap reaching approximately $423 million and $PENGU's market cap around $2.6 billion.
To stay updated on the latest NFT airdrops and maximize your participation, consider exploring resources like Airdrops.io, which aggregates current and upcoming airdrop opportunities.
By engaging with these platforms and staying informed, you can enhance your NFT portfolio and capitalize on the exciting opportunities 2025 has to offer.
Key Upcoming TGEs, Unlocks, and Product Releases
Key Crypto Events in January 2025
January 2025 is set to be a pivotal month for the cryptocurrency industry, featuring significant events that could influence market dynamics and regulatory landscapes. Here's a curated list of key dates to watch:
January 3: Genesis Block Anniversary
Commemorates the mining of Bitcoin's first block in 2009, marking the inception of the cryptocurrency era.
January 6: Binance Delisting $DAR for Rebranding
Binance will delist the $DAR token as part of a rebranding initiative, transitioning to the Dar Open Network (D).
January 10: Bitcoin ETFs Approved in the USA
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is expected to approve the first Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), potentially broadening institutional investment in Bitcoin.
January 15: U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) Report
The release of the CPI report will provide insights into inflation trends, influencing economic policies and market sentiment.
January 20: Presidential Inauguration
The inauguration of President Trump may lead to new regulatory approaches impacting the cryptocurrency sector.
January 22-24: WAGMI Miami Conference
A premier event bringing together traders, HODLers, and cryptocurrency enthusiasts to gain insights from influential figures in the crypto space.
January 27: Silk Road Anniversary
Marks the launch of the Silk Road darknet market in 2011, highlighting Bitcoin's early use cases in online transactions.
These events are anticipated to have a significant impact on the cryptocurrency landscape, influencing market trends, regulatory developments, and technological advancements.
Upcoming Token Generation Events (TGEs), Primary Listings, and Product Releases
Here are some of the upcoming events you should know about in the crypto space:
◦ $DUSK
DUSK Network, focusing on privacy-preserving smart contracts, will launch its token.
Mainnet release is scheduled for January 7, 2025.
◦ $SONIC
SonicSVM is preparing for its token release aimed at enhancing scalability and security in blockchain applications.
Primary listing is scheduled for January 7, 2025.
◦ $XTER
XTER is launching its token to support decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions.
Token sale is scheduled for January 8, 2025.
◦ $CORN
CORN focuses on agricultural supply chain solutions.
Token sale is scheduled for January 8, 2025.
◦ $WANDER
WANDER is set to launch its token for blockchain applications in the travel and tourism industry.
Token release is scheduled for January 8, 2025.
These events will offer significant opportunities in the crypto world, so be sure to mark your calendar and stay updated!
Master List of Potential TGEs in 2025
Here are some noteworthy projects anticipated to conduct TGEs in 2025:
◦ Linea
A blockchain platform with a high probability of conducting a TGE.
◦ Base
Another blockchain project with a strong likelihood of launching a TGE.
◦ Monad
A blockchain project with a moderate probability of holding a TGE.
◦ Pump.fun
A Solana-based meme coin platform that has recently experienced significant market volatility. It is now identified as a leading candidate for a TGE.
◦ Story Protocol
One of the largest recipients of venture capital in August 2024, yet to issue a token.
◦ Polymarket
Teased a token launch following a major pre-election trading surge, but nothing has materialized so far.
Stay tuned to these projects’ official channels for updates and announcements on their token launches.
Major Upcoming Token Unlocks in 2025
Here are the key upcoming token unlock events to watch in Q1 2025:
◦ Ondo Finance (ONDO)
Unlocking 1.94 billion ONDO tokens, worth approximately $2.97 billion, on January 18, 2025.
Represents more than 19,41% of the total supply of ONDO.
◦ GateToken (GT)
Unlocking 6.670 million GT tokens, worth approximately $121.7 million, on January 26, 2025.
Accounts for more than 0,67% of the total supply of GT.
◦ The Sandbox (SAND)
Unlocking 187 million SAND tokens, worth approximately $128.5 million, on February 14, 2025.
Represents 6.24% of the total supply of SAND.
◦ Ethena (ENA)
Unlocking 2.06 billion ENA tokens, worth approximately $2.51 billion, on April 02, 2025.
Accounts for 13.75% of the total supply of ENA.
◦ Saga (SAGA)
Unlocking 133.2 million SAGA tokens, worth approximately $214.5 million, on January 12, 2025.
Represents 13.32% of the total supply of SAGA.
These token unlocks could significantly impact the market by affecting liquidity and token prices. Investors and market participants should keep an eye on these events for potential market shifts.
Weekly Cliff Unlocks: 6 - 12 Jan '25
Here’s a more detailed look at the projects involved:
$APT (Jan 6): Aptos, a high-performance layer-1 blockchain, unlocks 2.03% ($105.07M).
$MOVE (Jan 7): MOVE token, related to Move-based ecosystems, unlocks 2.22% ($44.78M).
$KAS (Jan 8): Kaspa, a high-speed blockchain, unlocks 0.72% ($22.32M).
$NEON (Jan 9): NEON, bridging Solana and Ethereum, unlocks 44.92% ($19.79M).
$ENA (Jan 10): Enata token, related to DeFi, unlocks 0.42% ($13.51M).
$IO (Jan 11): IO token, related to dApps, unlocks 2.50% ($11.10M).
$OP (Jan 12): Optimism layer-2 token unlocks 0.33% ($8.41M).
These unlocks, totaling $242.68M, represent a notable portion of the circulating supply, likely affecting liquidity and investor sentiment. For more details, visit Tokenomist AI.
Protocols in focus
Top Gainers Of The Week
These tokens have shown significant price movements, reflecting a strong upward trend. Keep an eye on them for potential opportunities in the market!
For more details, visit Crypto Dep.
Ethena roadmap 2025
Ethena's 2025 roadmap reveals an ambitious strategy to enter the $190 trillion fixed income market with its new iUSDe product. This product, set to launch in Q1 2025, will allow traditional financial institutions such as asset managers and brokers to access crypto-backed dollar savings solutions.
The introduction of iUSDe is a strategic step in bridging the gap between the crypto space and traditional finance, leveraging blockchain technology to bring greater efficiency and access to savings products. The move aligns with the growing interest in decentralized finance solutions, particularly in established financial sectors.
As the project rolls out, it will likely have far-reaching effects on both the crypto industry and the broader financial markets. The introduction of iUSDe could also help solidify Ethena's position as a bridge between these two worlds, fostering further adoption of blockchain technology.
2024/2025 Fundraising Trends
DePIN 2024 Fundraising: Key Institutional Backers
DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks) has garnered strong interest in 2024, attracting major institutional investors. Among the leading backers are prominent firms like Multicoin, Framework, a16z, and EV3, which are making substantial investments in this emerging sector.
These firms’ high conviction signals strong belief in the potential of decentralized infrastructure networks to reshape industries. Their backing highlights the growing momentum behind DePINs and their increasing relevance in the blockchain space.
Notable projects in this space include:
◦ Helium Network: A decentralized wireless network powered by blockchain.
◦ Filecoin: A decentralized storage network with DePIN capabilities.
◦ PowerLedger: An energy-focused DePIN leveraging blockchain for energy distribution.
For more details, read the full thread here.
2024-2025 Fundraising Highlights
Several promising projects have raised significant funding at the close of 2024, setting the stage for an exciting 2025.
ChainOpera AI, an L1 blockchain and protocol for AI-agents, secured $17M to develop its platform.
Nodepay, a decentralized network, raised $7M to expand its infrastructure.
JAN3 completed a $5M seed round to accelerate the development of the AQUA Bitcoin wallet.
iCandy, a gaming L2 built on ZKsync, raised $4M in private funding to enhance its ecosystem.
These investments highlight growing interest in AI, decentralized finance, and blockchain-based gaming.
Research Spotlight
Bernstein’s 2025 Crypto Predictions: The “Infinity Age”
Bernstein forecasts significant growth in decentralized finance, scalability solutions, and security advancements in crypto by 2025, entering a phase of mass adoption and innovation.
Read more here.Quantum Computing Threat Spurs Solana Developer to Build Future-Proof Feature
A Solana developer is working on features that will protect the network from the potential threat of quantum computing, ensuring long-term security for blockchain.
Read more here.CBDC Advancements Across Asia in 2024/2025
Across Asia, governments are advancing Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), with China and other nations making significant progress toward launching their digital currencies.
Read more here.Four Crypto VCs on What Will Drive an $18B Investment Frenzy in 2025
Four venture capitalists predict that the next big wave of investment in 2025 will come from innovations in DeFi, NFTs, and AI, driving a multi-billion-dollar market expansion.
Read more here.