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Ondo wants to rebuild prime brokerage on-chain — and perps are the first step

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Latest developments: In an interview with CoinDesk Live from the Ondo Summit, Ondo President Ian de Bode says 2025 marked a breakout year for its core businesses.

  • The firm is now a leading issuer in tokenized U.S. Treasuries, with more than $2 billion in total value locked, according to president Ian De Bode.
  • Its Global Markets platform for tokenized stocks and ETFs has reached roughly $600 million in TVL, giving Ondo about 60% market share in that niche, De Bode said.
  • Ondo also highlighted partnerships with traditional finance heavyweights including Mastercard and JPMorgan.

The context: Tokenization is still early, and revenue is not yet the primary focus.

  • De Bode described the current phase as a “land grab,” with banks, asset managers and custodians racing to get assets on-chain.
  • He said the priority is building scalable infrastructure — “the pipes” — before monetization fully kicks in.
  • Even at current scale, Ondo’s tokenized products remain tiny relative to traditional finance markets, he added.

Why it matters: Ondo is positioning itself beyond asset issuance and toward services.

  • The company announced Ondo Perps, a new platform for perpetual futures on equities and commodities.
  • Unlike existing venues that rely solely on stablecoins, Ondo Perps will allow tokenized stocks and ETFs to be posted as collateral, De Bode said.
  • That design is meant to attract market makers, deepen liquidity and enable more sophisticated trading strategies.

Driving demand: Retail adoption outside the U.S. is already showing up.

  • De Bode said Ondo’s tokenized stocks platform has seen net inflows on all but three days since launching in September.
  • Distribution through crypto wallets and exchanges — including Binance Wallet and a newly announced MetaMask integration — is accelerating uptake, particularly in Asia.
  • He argued tokenized stocks solve real access problems globally, similar to how stablecoins expanded access to U.S. dollars.

What comes next: Ondo’s long-term ambition is on-chain prime brokerage.

  • Perpetuals are just the first step toward recreating traditional prime brokerage services on-chain, De Bode said.
  • The broader thesis is convergence: investors will want a single app to trade crypto, stocks, ETFs and derivatives around the clock.
  • Ondo plans to partner with centralized exchanges and wallets to make tokenized traditional assets native to crypto trading workflows.

Samson Mow Breaks Down Bitcoin Market Crash

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In a video interview, Samson Mow shares his views on Bitcoin’s latest bloodbath, quantum fears and the catalysts that could drive Bitcoin’s next recovery.

In an exclusive Cointelegraph interview, Bitcoin OG Samson Mow shares his perspective on Bitcoin’s latest massive crash, what’s driving the sell-offs and why a rebound could be closer than most expect.

We discuss gold and silver’s rally, forced liquidations, the “quantum threat” to crypto, and examine the long-term Bitcoin thesis: Is Bitcoin truly designed to rise in price due to fiat devaluation, or is that a flawed narrative?

After months of relentless selling pressure, sharp liquidations and growing bearish sentiment, many investors are asking the same question: Why does Bitcoin keep falling despite strong fundamentals, and when could it finally recover?

According to Mow, Bitcoin’s unique role as the most liquid asset in global markets, combined with its 24/7 tradability, makes it particularly sensitive to downside shocks that more traditional assets often avoid, at least in the short term.

The discussion also explores one of the most important dynamics in today’s market: the relationship between gold, silver and Bitcoin. After a powerful rally in precious metals, Mow lays out the case for why capital rotation from other hard assets may be setting the stage for Bitcoin’s next move.

If you’re trying to understand the nature of Bitcoin’s recent decline and what may come next, watch the full interview on our YouTube channel.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

High-Quality Academic Support in Switzerland: Tutoring and Coaching for Lasting Success

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As academic expectations rise and learning becomes more complex, many students need structured support to meet their full potential. In Switzerland—particularly in educational hubs like Geneva, Lausanne, and Neuchâtel—parents are increasingly turning to personalized tutoring and university coaching to ensure their children’s academic success.

From adolescents in secondary school to undergraduates in demanding university programs, the need for expert academic guidance has never been greater. That’s where Cogito, a Swiss-based educational organization with over 25 years of experience, plays a crucial role.

Why Academic Support Matters – At Every Level

Success in school and university requires more than intelligence or motivation. It depends on methodology, structure, and consistent support. In Switzerland, this starts early. Secondary school students face rigorous demands—especially in subjects like mathematics, German, and science—and university students must quickly adapt to a more autonomous, research-driven academic environment.

But the solution is not more pressure—it’s targeted support. Cogito provides structured, personalized academic coaching for students at all levels, with methods proven to deliver results.

School-Level Tutoring with Qualified Educators

At the compulsory and gymnasium (maturité) levels, Cogito offers tailored tutoring in core academic subjects. Whether it’s strengthening math fundamentals or improving German language proficiency, students benefit from one-on-one or small group instruction guided by teachers with university master’s degrees and proven pedagogical skills.

These instructors are carefully selected for their ability to adapt to each student’s pace and learning style. The goal is not only to improve grades, but also to build confidence and develop sustainable study habits. For parents looking to empower their teenagers during these crucial academic years, Cogito’s expertise in soutien scolaire offers a smart, effective solution.

Elite Coaching for University Students

University students in Switzerland face a unique set of challenges. From January exams to semester-long projects, their academic journey demands more than just knowledge—it requires self-discipline, time management, and advanced learning strategies.

Cogito stands out by offering high-level coaching with an elite team of instructors, many of whom hold PhDs in subjects such as mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, biology, letters, bioethics, and philosophy. The team also includes:

  • 3 dual master’s graduates in economics, finance, and management
  • 7 engineers trained in applied reasoning and complex modeling
  • 3 legal professionals with expertise in public and private law

With this powerhouse academic team, Cogito delivers coaching université that addresses not only subject matter, but also strategy. Students are guided to analyze their weaknesses, adjust their methodology, and rebuild their academic approach for long-term success.

Geneva, Lausanne and Neuchâtel: Where Excellence Meets Access

While Switzerland boasts world-renowned education, the cities of Geneva, Lausanne, and Neuchâtel form a triad where access to quality educational support is both needed and valued. These urban centers attract both local and international families, making academic performance a top priority.

Cogito’s presence in all three cities ensures that students can access the highest level of academic coaching either in person or online. Sessions are available in French and English, making them accessible to Switzerland’s diverse student population.

From Exam Stress to Academic Strength

Whether it’s a disappointing exam result in January or a growing struggle in math class, students often hit roadblocks. But failure doesn’t have to be permanent—it can be a turning point.

As outlined in Cogito’s recent article, “Résultats de janvier : rebondir, ajuster sa méthode et réussir avec Cogito”, low exam results are not the end of the story. They’re a chance to realign, refocus, and build a method that works.

Cogito offers methodology seminars, planning workshops, and continuous coaching, creating the right structure to transform weak semesters into academic comebacks.

Why Parents Trust Cogito

Parents choose Cogito not just for their child’s next test, but for their entire academic journey. With a focus on excellence, pedagogy, and long-term development, Cogito empowers students to succeed not only now, but in future academic and professional challenges.

For families in Geneva, Lausanne, or Neuchâtel seeking the best in soutien scolaire or university-level academic coaching, Cogito represents a unique blend of elite credentials and real-world educational support.







Bithumb Mistakenly Sends Bitcoin To Users, Sparks Selloff

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South Korea-based cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb reportedly made an operational mistake that led to the accidental deposit of large amounts of Bitcoin to user accounts during a promotional event.

The exchange had planned to distribute small cash rewards through a “Random Box” event at around 6 p.m. local time. Winners were supposed to receive between 20,000 and 50,000 Korean won. 

Instead, staff reportedly entered the payment unit as Bitcoin rather than won.

As a result, some users received at least 2,000 BTC each, worth roughly 196 billion won per person based on prices near 98 million won per Bitcoin at the time, according to social media screenshots and accounts. 

Earlier today, Bithumb said it accidentally sent an excess of bitcoin to “some customers.”

Some recipients reportedly sold the mistakenly credited coins, causing temporary price dislocations on the platform. 

Bitcoin on Bithumb reportedly fell more than 10% below broader market levels during the incident.

“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to our customers due to the confusion that arose during the payment process for this event,” the exchange said in a statement posted Friday.

Bithumb said it “immediately recognized the abnormal transaction through its internal control system and promptly restricted transactions for the relevant account.”

The exchange did not disclose how much Bitcoin was mistakenly distributed or how many accounts were affected. It said its “domino liquidation prevention system” prevented more severe chain liquidations tied to an “abnormal bitcoin price.”

Bithumb also emphasized that the incident was unrelated to any external hacking or security breach.

“It is understood that this incident did not result in any loss or damage to customer assets,” the company said.

This is a developing story. 

Massive bitcoin price drops on Bithumb

All this alleged activity happened as bitcoin suffered one of its most dramatic selloffs in history Thursday, slicing through key support levels and triggering a wave of forced liquidations. 

Bitcoin Magazine Pro data shows that BTC plunged to $60,000 yesterday, marking the largest raw dollar drawdown ever recorded and leaving the price roughly 50% below its October 2025 all-time high above $126,000. 

The decline now ranks among Bitcoin’s most extreme corrections, surpassing even the selling seen around the FTX collapse as broader risk markets weakened.

The move was intensified by leverage, with more than $1.1 billion in derivatives positions liquidated after support near $70,000 broke and accelerated the slide into the $60,000 range.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading above $69,000. 

Strategy ($MSTR) To Lead Bitcoin Quantum Defense, Says Saylor

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Strategy’s ($MSTR) Executive Chairman Michael Saylor said on the company’s fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call that Strategy will initiate a Bitcoin Security Program. The effort is meant to coordinate with the global cyber, crypto, and Bitcoin security community.

In the call, Saylor framed quantum computing as a long-term engineering challenge rather than an immediate danger. He said the technology is likely more than a decade away from posing a serious risk to Bitcoin’s cryptography.

During the call, Strategy displayed a slide titled “Quantum and our Commitment to Bitcoin Security.” It listed quantum concerns as the latest form of Bitcoin “FUD,” alongside past fears the network and Strategy as a whole have endured.

The company outlined its position that many industries, including financial services and defense, still depend on traditional cryptography. It noted that global investment is already flowing into quantum-resistant security research.

Saylor said the Bitcoin community is already engaged in work on quantum-resistant protocols. He added that if Bitcoin ever requires an upgrade, it would come through broad global consensus.

Strategy’s announcement comes during a volatile period for both Bitcoin and crypto-linked equities. The company reported a net loss of roughly $12.4 billion for the quarter, driven by mark-to-market declines in its bitcoin holdings.

Shares of Strategy fell 17% on Thursday, trading as low as $104 during the session.  The stock rebounded today, currently trading up 21%.

Strategy remains the largest corporate holder of bitcoin. The firm has accumulated more than 713,000 BTC under its treasury strategy led by Saylor and CEO Phong Le.

While quantum computing remains in early stages, researchers have warned that advanced machines could eventually challenge the encryption systems used across finance, communications, and blockchain networks.

Saylor argued that Bitcoin will emerge stronger after any future upgrade. He said the network has repeatedly adapted through past technical and regulatory challenges.

Strategy isn’t worried about the bitcoin dip

Executives used the earnings call to address investor concerns about balance sheet pressure during Bitcoin’s downturn.

Le said Bitcoin would need to fall to around $8,000 per coin and stay at that level for five to six years before the company would face serious difficulty servicing its convertible debt.

“In the extreme downside, if we were to have a 90% decline in bitcoin price, and the price was $8,000, that is the point at which our bitcoin reserve equals our net debt,” Le said. He noted that under such conditions, the company could consider restructuring or raising additional capital.

Strategy’s leadership emphasized the long-term nature of its approach. Saylor said the firm is built to withstand sharp quarter-to-quarter swings. The company’s bitcoin reserves remain valued in the tens of billions of dollars despite unrealized losses reported in the quarter.

Strategy has continued raising capital to support further acquisitions. It raised more than $25 billion last year and purchased additional bitcoin in early 2026.

Currently, Bitcoin trades far below its 2025 highs, but the asset is up $10,000 on the day. 

US Stocks Rally as Inflation Expectations Ease and Tech Stabilizes

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U.S. stocks rebounded sharply on Friday during the mid-morning trading sessions, as easing inflation expectations, improved consumer sentiment, and a rotation into industrial and financial stocks lifted the Dow Jones Industrial Average near record highs. Wall Street Rebounds After AI-Driven Tech Rout Batters Markets The Dow jumped 758 points by mid-morning, or 1.6%, on Feb. […]

Taranis Capital Secures DFSA Acknowledgement for New ‘Disruptive Tech Fund’

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Fintech Middle East & Africa

Taranis Capital Limited has received formal acknowledgement from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) for the establishment of its new investment vehicle, the Taranis Disruptive Tech Fund LP.

The acknowledgement relates to a notification submitted by the firm in November 2025 and marks a significant regulatory milestone for the Dubai-based investment platform.

Targeting high-impact innovation
Nicholas S. Bingham, founding partner and CEO of Taranis Capital

The new fund is designed to target high-impact technologies that are shaping the future of global economies. Specific investment focus areas will include artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, fintech, advanced analytics, and next-generation platforms.

By focusing on these sectors, Taranis Capital aims to support high-growth companies and accelerate digital transformation that aligns with regional development priorities in the GCC.

Nicholas S. Bingham, founding partner and CEO of Taranis Capital, commented on the strategic importance of the fund: “The Taranis Disruptive Tech Fund LP represents our commitment to building world-class investment vehicles that support innovation, knowledge transfer, and sustainable economic growth across the GCC and beyond. We are building platforms that not only generate strong commercial returns, but also enable regional ecosystems to compete globally in advanced technologies.”

Strengthening the ecosystem

The launch reinforces Taranis Capital’s position as a regional player in structuring institutional-grade investment platforms. The firm, which is regulated by the DFSA and headquartered in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), focuses on partnering with institutional investors and family offices to deliver long-term value with a strong emphasis on governance and ESG alignment.

Bingham added that the milestone brings the firm “one step closer to activating that vision” of enabling regional ecosystems to compete on a global stage.

Bitcoin Just Saw One of Its Fastest Crashes in History

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Bitcoin (BTC) rebounding is now “highly probable” as BTC price action sets another bearish record.

Key points:

  • Bitcoin has never traded so far below its 200-day moving average, data shows.

  • BTC price action is due “mean reversion” as a result.

  • Analysis describes a “macro-driven” Bitcoin bear market now in progress.

Bitcoin sees one of its fastest price drawdowns

New analysis from Martin Leinweber, director of digital asset research and strategy at European index provider MarketVector Indexes, says Bitcoin’s long-term investment thesis is “intact.”

BTC price action has never strayed so far from its 200-day simple moving average (SMA), and Leinweber said the dip below $60,000 was anything but “normal.”

“Bitcoin is -2.88σ below its 200-day moving average. In 10 years of data, this has literally NEVER happened before. Not during COVID. Not during FTX. Never,” he wrote in an X thread on Friday.

The analysis places this week’s crash among Bitcoin’s 15 fastest, with BTC/USD dropping by more than 22% in a single week, a worse rate than in 98.9% of its history.

“When you’re in the 99th percentile of bad outcomes, mean reversion becomes highly probable,” Leinweber continued.

Cryptoasset price decline data. Source: Martin Leinweber/X

2.88 standard deviations below the 200-day SMA, however, has never happened before, and sees Bitcoin beat the drawdowns for major altcoins Ether (ETH) and Solana (SOL).

“We’re not at generational lows yet. But we ARE at statistical extremes across multiple indicators,” the analysis said.

Cryptoasset distances from 200-day SMA Z-score. Source: Martin Leinweber/X

Despite that, Leinweber is not in a hurry to predict a long-term BTC price bottom, arguing that the current floor may only be a “local” one.

Zooming out, meanwhile, there remains reason to believe in the Bitcoin bull case.

“Bear market = macro driven, not tech failure. Long-term thesis intact,” the X thread concluded.

Bitcoin dip-buying needs “patience”

Earlier, Cointelegraph reported on the record-breaking nature of recent BTC price losses.

Related: BTC price heads back to 2021: Five things to know in Bitcoin this week

Thursday saw Bitcoin’s first-ever $10,000 red daily candle, with liquidations beating significant bearish events in the past, including the COVID-19 crash and implosion of exchange FTX.

Sentiment dropped to extreme lows, as measured via the Crypto Fear & Greed Index’s 9/100 score.

Crypto Fear & Greed Index (screenshot). Source: Alternative.me

At the same time, signs that large-volume investors were buying the dip quickly emerged, with the focus on hedge funds and Binance.

Analyzing the wave of liquidations in recent weeks, trader Daan Crypto Trades was among those eyeing a potentially lucrative buying opportunity.

“$BTC Bouncing from the middle of the 2024 range. Price sold off -38% in just a few weeks and a lot of large leveraged positions have been wiped out,” he told X followers. 

“Great time if you are more cash heavy and have the patience to accumulate or profit from the volatility.”

BTC/USDT perpetual contract three-day chart. Source: Daan Crypto Trades/X