Last night's and this morning's important news (January 20 - January 21)

Aave total cumulative lending approaches $1 trillion

According to official disclosures from Aave, as of January 2026, the decentralized lending protocol Aave has issued a total of nearly $1 trillion in loans since its launch in 2020.

A whale address leverages short positions 6 times over 5 days, earning over $15 million

According to Lookonchain tracking, address 0xD835 deposited $3 million USDC into Hyperliquid five days ago, then used full leverage to short and kept adding to the position. As the market declined, unrealized gains soared to $15.35 million, with total assets increasing to $18.35 million. Its current holdings include 1,667 BTC (about $148 million), 45,523 ETH (about $135 million), 929,000 HYPE, and 824 XMR, with a combined market value exceeding $300 million.

Noble to migrate from Cosmos chain to independent EVM Layer 1, mainnet scheduled for March 18

According to Noble’s official announcement, the stablecoin infrastructure project Noble will launch a new EVM Layer 1 mainnet based on the Commonware architecture on March 18, 2026, separating from the existing Cosmos SDK chain. The new chain supports sub-second transaction finality, open contract deployment, and dedicated payment channels. It will use its native yield-bearing stablecoin USDN as the core asset to expand into FX trading, DeFi yield strategies, and payment settlement scenarios. The existing Cosmos chain will gradually transition to maintenance mode, with IBC connectivity remaining unchanged. The team will provide an asset migration path.

Grayscale applies for NEAR spot ETF listing in the US, possibly named “Grayscale Near Trust ETF”

According to SEC filings, Grayscale has submitted a Form S-1 registration statement to launch a spot ETF based on NEAR blockchain assets, called “Grayscale Near Trust,” planned to be listed on NYSE Arca under the ticker “GSNR.” The trust will directly hold NEAR tokens and support subscriptions and redemptions in NEAR or cash. Coinbase will serve as custodian and lead broker.

First time in history spot gold surpasses $4,800/oz

Spot gold has for the first time crossed the $4,800 per ounce mark, rising over 10% this month, an increase of more than $480.

DeepSeek new model MODEL1 code revealed, possibly a completely new architecture

According to Quantumbit, the FlashMLA code updated on GitHub by DeepSeek first mentions “MODEL1,” appearing in 28 references across 114 files, alongside the existing version V32 (DeepSeek-V3.2), implying MODEL1 is a next-generation architecture model. Code differences show optimizations in KV cache layout, sparsity handling, and FP8 decoding, with an expected official release around the Spring Festival. Coupled with recent disclosures of mHC residual connections and Engram memory modules, MODEL1 is expected to integrate multiple proprietary innovations.

US stock market close: major indices plunge, blockchain concept stocks decline broadly

US stocks closed Tuesday with the Dow down approximately 1.76%, S&P 500 down 2.06%, and Nasdaq down 2.39%. Nvidia(NVDA.O) fell 4.3%, Apple(AAPL.O) fell 3.4%, Google(GOOG.O) declined over 2%. Blockchain concept stocks broadly declined, including COIN(Coinbase) down 5.57%; MSTR(Strategy) down 7.76%; CRCL (Circle) down 7.52%.

Mastercard considers strategic investment in Zerohash, talks to cease acquisition, shift to partnership

According to CoinDesk, after negotiations to acquire blockchain infrastructure firm Zerohash fell through, Mastercard is evaluating a strategic investment instead of a direct acquisition. Previously, in October 2025, the two sides engaged in in-depth talks with valuation estimates between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, but Zerohash insisted on remaining independent, leading to the deal’s failure. An insider revealed that investment discussions are ongoing.

Coinbase officially opens ELSA spot trading and deposit services

According to Coinbase Markets, ELSA (Elsa) is now available on coinbase.com and the Coinbase app, allowing users to buy, sell, exchange, send, receive, or store ELSA assets.

Trend Research borrows another $20 million USDT to buy 6,656 ETH

According to Onchain Lens, Trend Research borrowed another $20 million USDT to purchase 6,656 ETH on Binance and injected it into Aave V3. Currently, the organization holds 651,310 ETH, valued at approximately $1.91 billion.

Japanese and Korean stock markets open over 1% lower

On January 21, the Nikkei 225 index opened down 718.60 points, a decline of 1.36%, at 52,272.50 points. The KOSPI index opened down 74.42 points, a decline of 1.52%, at 4,811.33 points.

BTC drops below $88,000, down 2.96% intraday

According to OKX, Bitcoin just fell below $88,000, currently trading at $87,998.50 per coin, down 2.96% for the day.

Liu Licheng faces 5 more liquidations today, total loss expands to $24.18 million

According to Lookonchain, due to market decline, Machi Big Brother(Liu Licheng) experienced 5 more liquidations today. Current positions: 2,200 ETH (worth $6.67 million); liquidation price: $2,991.43; total profit/loss: -$24.18 million.

Binance Alpha launches Ucan fix life in1day (1) and misprinted horse (Crying Horse)

According to official info, Binance Alpha has launched Ucan fix life in1day (1) and misprinted horse (Crying Horse).

US Supreme Court declines to rule on Trump global tariffs legality challenge

According to Jinshi, the US Supreme Court has not issued a ruling on the legality challenge to Trump’s global tariffs.

US Treasury: Seized Bitcoin will be included in government digital asset reserves

According to CoinDesk, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated that seized Bitcoin will be incorporated into the government’s digital asset reserves.

CFTC Chair announces launch of “Future Proof” plan to upgrade crypto regulation

According to The Block, CFTC Chairman Michael Selig announced the launch of “Future Proof,” aiming to comprehensively upgrade the agency’s digital asset regulation approach. In his first month in office, Selig said the CFTC needs to “upgrade” and plans to review its rules extensively, targeting “minimal effective regulation.” He noted that decades-old rules designed for agricultural futures still apply to traditional markets but do not cover emerging products or trading venues, and the CFTC must evolve to foster innovation. Despite legislative delays last week over stablecoin yield treatment, Selig said the CFTC is ready to regulate the crypto industry and that if Congress passes legislation to make the US a crypto hub, the CFTC will take on new responsibilities. The plan also appears to include prediction markets. Selig mentioned that as new asset classes emerge and the CFTC’s role evolves, guidelines should be tailored not only to products but also to regulatory objectives. He indicated more “policy changes” will be announced in the coming days.

Tether mints 1 billion USDT on Tron network

According to Onchain Lens, Tether just minted an additional 1 billion USDT on the Tron network. So far in 2026, Tether has minted a total of 2 billion USDT on Tron.

“Rolling trader” adds to HYPE short position, total value of four currencies’ shorts reaches $261 million

According to on-chain analyst Yu Yan, “rolling trader” 0xD83…Fd7 increased his HYPE short position in the past half hour. Starting last Friday, he initially shorted ETH, then used floating profits to roll into other currencies. Now, he holds short positions in BTC, ETH, HYPE, and XMR, totaling $261 million. He turned $3 million USDC into a $11 million position through rolling shorts, with the following holdings: 1,640 BTC (worth $150 million), entry at $92,120, liquidation at $94,732, floating profit of $1.98 million; 31,093 ETH (worth $100 million), entry at $3,270, liquidation at $3,269, floating profit $6.29 million; 728,000 HYPE (worth $16 million), entry at $21.77, liquidation at $30.1, floating loss $60,000; 824 XMR (worth $4,500), entry at $605, floating profit $40,000.

Glassnode: Bitcoin’s recent decline from highs reflects weakening momentum, not trend deterioration

According to Glassnode’s weekly market analysis, US spot Bitcoin ETF fund flows sharply reversed, showing strong inflows, indicating institutional accumulation. Although ETF trading volume increased, profit-taking among holders also rose, posing short-term risks. Bitcoin retreated from recent highs of around $98,000 to just above $90,000. The RSI (Relative Strength Index) on January 14 declined but remains above neutral, indicating consolidation rather than trend deterioration. Spot trading volume modestly increased, with net buy-sell imbalance exceeding statistical limits, suggesting selling pressure has eased but demand remains fragile. Futures open interest rose slightly, reflecting cautious speculative activity, while funding rates plummeted, reducing bullish urgency. The options market continues to price high uncertainty, with downside protection demand still present. On-chain activity stabilized, with active addresses and transfer volumes improving, and network fees slightly rising. Short-term holder supply remains high, keeping the market sensitive to price swings. Overall, Bitcoin is in a consolidation phase, but increased buying interest and institutional engagement are gradually shifting the market structure toward a more constructive outlook.

A whale’s 5x leveraged HYPE long position floating loss exceeds $23.3 million

According to Onchain Lens, as HYPE’s price drops below $22, a whale holding a 5x leveraged long position in HYPE has floating losses over $23.3 million, with a funding rate cost of $1.25 million, and a liquidation price of $19.32.

Spot gold surpasses $4,740/oz to new high, after Poland’s central bank approves purchase of 150 tons

According to Jinshi, spot gold surged past $4,740 per ounce, hitting a new high with a 1.48% intraday increase. Poland’s central bank previously approved a plan to buy 150 tons of gold.

Robinhood Crypto launches MNT token

Robinhood announced on X that MNT tokens are now tradable on Robinhood Crypto, including in New York.

Trump Media & Tech Group announces registration date for its digital token plan as February 2

According to GLOBE NEWSWIRE, Trump Media & Tech Group announced that the registration date for its digital token plan is February 2, 2026. Eligible beneficial owners and registered holders holding at least one share of DJT stock will qualify for tokens and incentives. The company reminds that if shareholders are designated as “disputed beneficial owners,” it may delay or hinder information sharing. Shareholders are advised to confirm with brokers that they are “non-disputed beneficial owners” (NOBO) or transfer shares to the company’s designated direct registration account. After registration, the company will collaborate with Crypto.com to mint tokens, register on blockchain, and custody assets, with further details to be announced. The company also plans to offer various rewards to registered shareholders within the year, including benefits or discounts on its products. The CEO stated this move aims to leverage blockchain technology to enhance transparency and protect shareholder interests.

Bitmine increased holdings by 35,268 ETH last week, worth $1.09 billion

According to Onchain Lens, Bitmine bought 35,268 ETH (worth $1.09 billion) last week. They now hold a total of 4,203,036 ETH, valued at $129.6 billion. Previously, BitMine disclosed holding over 3.48% of the ETH supply, with total assets of $14.5 billion.

BitMine: currently holds over 3.48% of ETH supply, total assets of $14.5 billion

According to PR Newswire, Nasdaq-listed Ethereum treasury company BitMine disclosed that it currently holds over 3.48% of the ETH supply. Its crypto, cash holdings, and “Moonshots” total $14.5 billion, including about 4.203 million ETH, $979 million in unpledged cash, and other crypto assets. As of January 19 ET, its crypto holdings include 4,203,036 ETH and 193 BTC, plus $220 million in Eightco Holdings shares and $979 million in unpledged cash. Its ETH staking total is 1,838,003 ETH (at $3,211 per ETH, totaling $5.9 billion), an increase of 581,920 ETH from last week. The company also announced shareholder approval to increase authorized shares, providing greater flexibility for future financing. The proposal was approved with 81% support at the January 15 annual meeting. This does not mean issuing new shares immediately but raises the maximum number of shares the company can issue.

Trend Research repurchases 7,960 ETH from Binance, buys 17,899 ETH today

According to on-chain analyst Yu Yan, Trend Research just repurchased 7,960 ETH (worth $24.7 million) from Binance and bought a total of 17,899 ETH (worth $55.58 million) today. They now hold 646,400 ETH (worth $2 billion), with an average cost of $3,182 per ETH.

Strategy invests $2.13 billion to acquire 22,305 BTC

According to official reports, Strategy has acquired 22,305 BTC at an average price of about $95,284 per coin, totaling approximately $2.13 billion. As of January 19, 2026, Strategy holds 709,715 BTC, with a total purchase cost of about $53.92 billion, averaging roughly $75,979 per BTC.

WLFI faces community opposition over “team wallet” USD1 growth proposal vote

According to Cointelegraph, World Liberty Financial (WLFI) recently faced controversy over a governance vote for a USD1 stablecoin growth proposal. The community criticized that locked-in holders could not participate in voting, and the results were dominated by a few related wallets. On-chain data shows that the first nine wallets control about 59% of voting rights, with the largest single wallet contributing 18.786%. Anonymous researcher DeFi^2 pointed out that many key votes come from team or strategic partner addresses, while many locked-in ordinary holders are excluded. Critics argue that the project should prioritize unlocking investors rather than pushing proposals that could further dilute holders’ rights. According to project documents, 75% of net revenue is allocated to entities related to the Trump family, and 25% to entities related to the Witkoff family. WLFI holders do not directly share in the protocol’s revenue.

USDC Treasury mints 500 million USDC on Solana chain

According to Whale Alert, around 20:27 and 20:28 Beijing time, USDC Treasury minted a total of 500 million USDC on Solana in two transactions.

Trump family net worth reaches $6.8 billion, with crypto assets accounting for one-fifth

According to Bloomberg, over the past year, crypto assets added about $1.4 billion to the Trump family’s wealth. Currently, their total net worth of approximately $6.8 billion includes crypto assets making up about one-fifth for the first time. The report notes that during his second term, the Trump family gained significant profits from new ventures such as the jointly founded crypto platform World Liberty Financial, the Meme coin named after him, and the Bitcoin mining company American Bitcoin Corp. The platform’s tokens and USD1 stablecoin business are valued highly. Meanwhile, their social media company Trump Media & Technology Group’s stock has fallen 66% over the past 12 months, offsetting some crypto gains. Family members also invested in companies like SpaceX through risk venture firm 1789 Capital and expanded Trump Group’s global real estate licensing. White House press secretary responded that the government is fulfilling the president’s promise to make the US a global crypto hub through executive actions and policies.

Binance Wallet launches limited-time stock token trading and Alpha task points activity

PANews, January 20: Binance announced on X that trading stock tokens via Binance Wallet can earn Binance Alpha task points. Activity period: January 20, 2026, 21:00 to February 3, 20:59 (UTC+8). During the event, successfully buying stock tokens with a single transaction of at least 50 USDT/USDC in Binance Wallet (App/web) grants 5 Binance Alpha points (limit one per user).

Trove Markets token crashes over 95% within minutes after launch, further negative impact

According to The Block, Trove Markets faced deeper controversy after its token generation event. Its token TROVE, launched on Solana, plummeted over 95% within minutes. The fully diluted valuation dropped from about $20 million implied at the ICO to less than $1 million, and liquidity pools dried up quickly, worsening early investors’ losses. Previously, after raising $11.5 million, the project abruptly shifted deployment from Hyperliquid to Solana at the last minute, sparking community dissatisfaction. Trove team said they will retain about $9.4 million of raised funds and only offer partial refunds, further angering participants demanding full refunds. Social media flooded with accusations of fund misuse, mixer transfers, and undisclosed influencer promotions. On-chain investigator ZachXBT pointed out a $45,000 SOL transaction from Trove’s angel round address related to a casino deposit. Trove denied “exit scam” allegations, claiming user funds remain safe and promising ongoing development. The project was incubated by Paradigm and raised $35 million at a $400 million valuation in 2021.

Trend Research buys 9,939 ETH from Binance, deposits into Aave V3, borrows $20 million USDT

According to Onchain Lens, Trend Research purchased 9,939 ETH (worth $30.85 million) from Binance and deposited into Aave V3, while borrowing $20 million USDT to buy more ETH. They now hold 636,240 ETH, valued at $19.7 billion.

Solana staking rate hits all-time high at 68.8%

According to Cointelegraph, Solana’s staking rate reached a record high of 68.8%.

Analysis: Bitcoin shows “bullish outlook” signals, $90,000 key level

According to Cointelegraph analysis, recent signals from Bitcoin miner indicators and market sentiment indices are bullish. Hash rate indicators (measuring 30-day vs. 60-day moving averages) have issued “buy” signals, suggesting miner capitulation may be ending. Historically, such signals have coincided with significant discounts and long-term buying opportunities. The last occurrence was in July 2025, after which Bitcoin surged 25% to new highs. Meanwhile, the 30-day moving average of the Crypto Fear & Greed Index crossed above the 90-day MA for the first time since May 2025, indicating a shift from long-term fear to optimism. Analysts emphasize that $90,000 is a critical psychological and technical support level for Bitcoin, coinciding with the 200-period moving average on the 4-hour chart and the lower boundary of a weekly bearish flag pattern. Holding this level could keep buyers in control and support a rebound; a weekly close below it could lead to further declines toward $80,000–$85,000, and test April 2025 lows of $74,500 and the 200-week moving average at $68,000.

Ethereum’s single-day transaction volume hits 2.9 million, possibly driven mainly by “address poisoning” attacks

According to CoinDesk, Ethereum’s on-chain activity recently surged, with a record 2.9 million transactions in a single day, but ETH price reacted mildly. This may be due to large-scale “address poisoning” attacks rather than genuine demand growth. Research shows about 80% of new addresses’ abnormal growth is related to stablecoins, and about 67% of new active addresses’ first transfers are under $1, consistent with “dust attacks.” Approximately 3.86 million addresses received “poison dust” in their first stablecoin transactions. Attackers use smart contracts to send tiny amounts of stablecoins to hundreds of thousands of addresses, polluting transaction histories and misleading users into transferring large sums to fake addresses. After the Fusaka upgrade in early December, transaction fees dropped significantly, enabling such low-cost attacks. This suggests Ethereum’s record transaction volume may be inflated by spam, weakening its signal as a demand indicator for ETH prices.

Binance sets the launch time for AIAUSDT U-based perpetual contract at 19:15 today

Binance’s futures platform scheduled the launch of the AIAUSDT U-based perpetual contract at 19:15 on January 20, 2026 (UTC+8), with leverage up to 20x. Previously, on January 16, Binance announced a delay in launching the AIAUSDT U-based perpetual contract.