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U.S. Critical Materials Corp. and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) have entered into a Phase II Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to establish a pilot-scale processing plant capable of producing rare earths domestically. The facility will process high-grade ore from the company’s flagship Sheep Creek deposit in Montana, which holds critical minerals and rare earths including neodymium, praseodymium, niobium, strontium, samarium, scandium, and heavy rare earths such as gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, and yttrium. The Utah-based privately held company has reported rare earth samples from 125 feet underground at its flagship property that exceed the grades of any other domestic rare earth resource. Since early 2024, Phase I CRADA researchers have confirmed the high concentrations of gallium and rare earth elements in the Sheep Creek ore body. Sheep Creek also contains high grade gallium, which will be one of the first minerals to be processed—and is vital for national security applications, the company said. This initiative, it said, aligns with President Trump’s March Executive Order declaring a National Emergency over America’s reliance on foreign adversaries for these strategic materials. For decades, the United States has been dependent on China for rare earth supply chains—China controls the mining, processing, and refining of these essential elements. Amid the geopolitical drama incited by a turbulent trade war, China’s export controls on metals vital across the defence and tech sectors spotlight the urgent need for more robust domestic supply chains. INL is globally recognized for its expertise in Advanced Separation Science and Engineering and serves as the US Department of Energy’s primary Separation Sciences R&D Testbed. US Critical Materials said INL scientists will contribute technical expertise to ensure the pilot plant integrates environmentally responsible refining processes that can scale to full production. The pilot facility will now validate proprietary processing methodologies at scale, ensuring full-scale production capability for America’s defense needs, the company said. The objectives, it said, are to reduce U.S. reliance on adversarial nations for critical minerals, secure a domestic supply chain for rare earths used in defense systems and advance mineral processing technologies essential for national resilience. Pilot plant capacity will be 1 to 2 tons of ore per day, based on a validated bench-scale flow sheet. It will also emonstrate innovative mineral processing and separation technologies and establish intellectual property and scalable domestic production capabilities for critical materials. “There is no more pressing national security issue than securing America’s supply of rare earths and critical minerals,” Jim Hedrick, US Critical Materials president and former USGS rare earths commodity specialist said in a statement. “These materials are the backbone of our military, energy, and technological dominance. This pilot plant will accelerate the development of next-generation separation and refining methods to ensure America no longer relies on foreign adversaries for resources essential to national defense.”

Ethereum is showing renewed strength after climbing above the $2,600 mark with ease, holding firmly above key support levels as bulls attempt to reclaim momentum. The move comes after weeks of range-bound price action, and while the breakout attempt has gained attention, traders are now watching closely for confirmation through a decisive push above the next resistance zone. So far, ETH has held up well despite broader market volatility. With buyers back in control, the focus has shifted to whether Ethereum can break through the upper boundary of its current range and begin a sustained move higher. Without follow-through, price risks slipping back into consolidation, frustrating bullish positioning. Top analyst Big Cheds recently shared a technical analysis highlighting that Ethereum is now pushing into weekly range highs, specifically a zone defined by a cluster of upper shadows and the underside of the 200-day moving average (DMA). This region has repeatedly acted as resistance, rejecting previous rally attempts. Ethereum Bulls Eye Breakout Confirmation Ethereum is at a critical juncture as bulls push price toward the $2,800 resistance — a level that must be decisively cleared to confirm a breakout and transition into a full bullish phase. After a sharp rebound from April’s low, where ETH traded near $1,400, the asset has surged more than 90%, reclaiming key moving averages and breaking through previous short-term resistance levels. Momentum is clearly building, but Ethereum now faces its most important test. The $2,800 zone marks the top of the current range and coincides with multiple technical barriers. Cheds highlighted that ETH is now trading into weekly range highs, where a cluster of upper shadows has repeatedly rejected price. This region also aligns with the underside of the 200-day moving average (DMA), reinforcing it as a major zone of resistance. According to Cheds, the bear thesis fails if ETH can flip $2,750 into support — a level that would likely signal trend reversal and sustained upside. However, macro risks remain. US Treasury yields continue to climb, reflecting concerns over inflation and tighter financial conditions. Rising yields often put pressure on risk assets, including cryptocurrencies, by pulling liquidity out of speculative markets. Despite these headwinds, Ethereum’s structure remains strong. As long as bulls maintain pressure and defend higher lows, the path toward reclaiming $3,000 becomes more probable. A confirmed breakout above $2,800 would likely trigger increased participation, both from technical traders and investors sidelined by recent volatility. Until then, ETH remains rangebound — but the momentum is clearly shifting in favor of the bulls. ETH Reaches Key Resistance Zone After Breakout Ethereum is currently trading at $2,688 on the 4-hour chart, after a strong breakout from a multi-day ascending triangle structure. The move was backed by rising volume and a clean reclaim of all major moving averages — the 50 SMA ($2,558), 100 SMA ($2,571), and 200 SMA ($2,535) — which now act as support beneath price. ETH has pushed directly into a key resistance zone between $2,690 and $2,735, highlighted by several previous rejection wicks. This area has acted as a supply zone since mid-May, capping every breakout attempt and leading to swift pullbacks. The current test marks Ethereum’s fifth attempt to break above this level in recent weeks, which increases the odds of a potential breakout, especially if bulls maintain momentum and volume remains elevated. However, if ETH fails to clear this zone, a pullback toward the 200 SMA or the $2,600 level is likely, especially if volume tapers off. The structure remains bullish in the short term, with higher lows forming and buying pressure increasing. A confirmed 4H close above $2,735 would signal breakout confirmation and likely trigger a push toward $2,900–$3,000. Until then, ETH remains rangebound — but bulls are clearly pressing on the door. Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView

As Bitcoin Dominance (BTC.D) rises in the crypto market, analysts are closely watching for signs of the long-awaited altcoin season. In a recent analysis, a crypto market expert shared key insights on the best time to buy altcoins, offering strategic guidance for traders looking to position themselves ahead of the next potential market rally. When To Position For The Altcoin Season As the Bitcoin price continues its upward trajectory, the speculation about an impending altcoin season remains a recurring theme across crypto communities. However, a Bitcoin Dominance chart shared by ‘Stockmoney Lizards,’ a pseudonymous crypto analyst on X (formerly Twitter), challenges the narrative that an altcoin season is imminent. Drawing on personal experience and market cycles, Stockmoney Lizards explains that the repeated cries of “altcoin season is here” are often premature and misleading. The analyst revealed that the true altcoin season, the period where even the lowest-quality coins tend to skyrocket, is often the final phase of the crypto bull run. It begins when Bitcoin Dominance breaks below the 60% support level, signaling a market-wide shift into altcoins. Notably, the analyst has shed light on how and when to position ahead of the altcoin season. Instead of buying altcoins based on hype or assumptions of immediate gains, Stockmoney Lizards suggests a more disciplined strategy: accumulate only at extreme oversold levels. This is typically when the Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the 4-hour or daily time frame drops below 25-30, reflecting capitulation. According to the market expert, these moments offer the best entry points for short-term rebounds, where altcoins deliver explosive moves of about 50% to 200%. The analyst further highlights that the primary objective is to take profits and rotate them back into Bitcoin. This approach not only maximizes gains but also minimizes exposure to prolonged drawdowns that usually follow the euphoric phase of the market cycle. Bitcoin Dominance Influence On AltSeason According to Stockmoney Lizards, the current behaviour of BTC.D, trading firmly between a well-defined channel, indicates that the market is still in the early to mid-phase of a bull run. Typically, this phase is dominated by Bitcoin, not altcoins, and history shows that institutional capital prefers to build positions in the flagship cryptocurrency before moving to riskier lower-cap assets. Notably, Bitcoin’s rising dominance in the market is not seen by the analyst as a bearish signal for altcoins in the long term. Instead, it is perceived as a healthy sign of a maturing bull market. He disclosed that the real altcoin season doesn’t begin until BTC.D decisively breaks down from its channel and drops to historical lows. Until then, Bitcoin’s strength reflects institutional accumulation and market confidence. Stockmoney Lizards reveals that retail investors often misinterpret this as a signal to chase altcoins, only to be caught holding bags as BTC continues to outperform. The analyst concludes that the altcoin season breakout will eventually come, but only those who position smartly by letting Bitcoin lead and waiting for alts to reach oversold extremes will be best prepared to capitalize on the market rally.

Ethereum is making waves in the crypto market, pushing into key resistance levels following an impressive 14% surge over the past few days. This upward momentum has put bulls firmly in control, igniting optimism among investors as the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap tests critical thresholds. The recent rally has brought Ethereum close to a pivotal juncture, where breaking through higher levels could confirm sustained bullish momentum and potentially signal the start of a broader uptrend. Top analyst Daan recently shared an insightful analysis, highlighting that Ethereum remains rangebound between approximately $2,475 and $2,735. This consolidation zone has proven to be a battleground, with the price repeatedly testing its boundaries. Notably, Ethereum has now retested the range high of $2,735 for the fourth time, a level that has acted as both support and resistance in recent weeks. The price has also swept both the highs and lows within this range, suggesting a period of indecision that could precede a significant move. For bulls to maintain their dominance, clearing this resistance will be crucial. Failure to do so might invite renewed selling pressure, keeping the market on edge as traders watch for the next catalyst. Ethereum Clears Range Highs But Needs Confirmation Ethereum stands at a decisive level following a robust push into resistance, marking a critical moment for the cryptocurrency’s trajectory. After a notable surge, the price has tested key thresholds, drawing sharp attention from market participants. Sentiment remains deeply divided, with some analysts anticipating a breakout to higher prices, fueled by the recent momentum, while others predict an imminent correction as overextension risks loom. This uncertainty is compounded by global tensions and macroeconomic instability, which continue to drive volatility across financial markets, keeping traders on edge. Daan’s recent analysis provides a detailed perspective, noting that Ethereum remains rangebound between approximately $2,475 and $2,735. Within this zone, the price has swept both the highs and lows, reflecting a period of consolidation. Significantly, Ethereum has now retested the range high of $2,735 for the fourth time, a level that has repeatedly served as a psychological and technical barrier. According to Daan, this prolonged range play suggests that a breakout—either upward or downward—is on the horizon, likely triggering a substantial move. However, he cautions that until such a breakout occurs, it’s prudent to avoid overcommitting to either bullish or bearish positions. The analyst points out that over the past few weeks, traders have repeatedly bet on breakouts in both directions, only to face choppy conditions that often result in losses. This pattern of indecision has left many investors “chopped up,” as premature bets fail to materialize. With global economic uncertainties adding pressure, Ethereum’s next move hinges on whether bulls can decisively clear the $2,735 resistance or if bears will capitalize on a potential reversal. Until clarity emerges, the market remains a battleground of competing forces. Price Action Details: Key Levels To Clear Ethereum is trading at $2,690.46 on the 1-day chart, following a period of consolidation after a sharp decline. After finding support near $1,750 in April, ETH formed a tentative ascending triangle pattern, with recent price action testing key moving averages. The 50-day SMA ($2,310.51) and 100-day SMA ($2,077.91) have been breached upward, while the 200-day SMA ($2,657.01) remains a critical resistance, aligning with the current price zone. This move suggests short-term resilience, setting the stage for a potential test of the $2,750 resistance, a level retested four times since early 2025. A decisive daily close above $2,750, supported by rising volume, could pave the way for a push toward $3,000. The chart reveals rising lows since April, indicating accumulation and renewed buyer interest, particularly around the $2,500-$2,600 range. Increasing volume during recent upticks adds credibility to the breakout attempt, reducing the likelihood of a false move. If ETH holds above $2,500, the trend leans bullish. However, a rejection at $2,750 might drive the price back to the $2,250-$2,400 support zone. The market remains rangebound between $2,475 and $2,735, per analyst Daan’s insights, with a breakout likely to trigger a significant move. All eyes are on whether ETH can clear $2,750 to confirm upward momentum. Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView

Log in to today’s North American session Recap for June 10. The session hasn't been too volatile as markets brace for tomorrow's key US CPI release where markets will get further information on the impact of the infamous Trump Tariffs. On that aspect, even with the TACO (Trump Always Chickens Out) developments, there is still an extra 10% base tariff on all US imports that will surely impact inflation outlooks for the upcoming months–even with less tariffs expected overall. US and China ongoing talks in London are reported to be going well. In that aspect, US negotiators are working all around the world, with US-India talks also progressing and discussions with Iran not looking as rosy – One of the themes that is restraining an ever-more risk-on mood in Financial Markets. The picture in Crypto is also looking decent with BTC hanging close to the $110,000 mark and other altcoins enjoying from the positive mood in the Crypto landscape. Opinions are the authors'; not necessarily that of OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc. or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers or directors. The provided publication is for informational and educational purposes only. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, an award winning forex, commodities and global indices analysis and news site service produced by OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc., please refer to the MarketPulse Terms of Use. Visit https://www.marketpulse.com/ to find out more about the beat of the global markets. © {CURRENT_YEAR} OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

In a recent post on X, crypto analyst Grayhoood observed that Solana (SOL) is currently showing signs of a bullish trend. Over the past 24 hours, the price has climbed by 2.8%, with candlestick charts revealing a noticeable upward trajectory. Solana Stochastics And CCI Signal Short-Term Strength Earlier in the day, SOL briefly dipped to around $151 but managed to recover steadily, reaching a current price of $155.35. Grayhoood pointed out that this short-term strength is consistent with Solana’s 7-day performance, which shows a modest 1.4% increase. However, the longer-term outlook remains volatile, with SOL still down by 3.9% over the past year. Grayhoood revealed that technical indicators are suggesting a cautiously optimistic outlook for SOL. As price action continues to show signs of recovery, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is likely positioned in a neutral zone, indicating the recent uptick. This positioning allows space for further gains, but also signals a potential shift into overbought territory if SOL’s price surges too rapidly. The Stochastic Oscillator and Commodity Channel Index (CCI) also point to short-term bullish momentum, especially with SOL breaking through the $154 resistance level. These indicators suggest that buyers are regaining control. However, Grayhoood cautioned that while momentum appears to be building, the recent price dip observed earlier in the day reveals that sellers are not entirely out of the picture. Recovery Gains Traction, But Yearly Losses Still Weigh In To further reinforce his claim, the analyst pointed to Solana’s moving averages, which currently present a mixed but insightful technical outlook. In the short term, the 7-day and 14-day moving averages hint at a hold or mild buying pressure. This aligns with SOL’s recent bounce from $151 to $155.35, signaling that momentum may be shifting in favor of the bulls. However, when viewed from a broader lens, long-term averages continue to reflect lingering weakness. The 30-day and yearly trends, which show declines of 9.3% and 3.9% respectively, suggest that the larger market remains cautious. These figures reveal that while the recent gains are encouraging, they have not fully reversed the bearish structure seen over the past months. Overall, the analyst believes that despite the volatility seen over the past few weeks, market sentiment is beginning to lean bullish in the short term. Solana’s recent performance, supported by its ability to reclaim key levels and maintain upward momentum, offers a more favorable outlook heading into the near future. If current trends persist and key resistances are successfully challenged, the path may open for a broader shift in sentiment.

XRP might be gearing up for a bullish run of epic proportions, accompanied by a similar crash of epic proportions. Particularly, a new technical analysis suggests that the XRP price may be preparing for one of its most explosive moves yet, followed by what the analyst calls a historic crash. This analysis comes amidst a backdrop of XRP reclaiming $2.2 in the past 24 hours, with the next outlook on reclaiming $2.3. Echoes of 2017: Hidden Bullish Divergence Reappears In a detailed breakdown shared on the social media platform X, crypto analyst JD (@jaydee_757) drew parallels between the current setup of XRP’s price action and its 2017–2018 market cycle. Back then, XRP printed a hidden bullish divergence (HBD) on the Stochastic RSI indicator, which acted as a powerful signal for an eventual 20x surge. According to the analyst, XRP appears to be repeating the same structural formation, with a new hidden bullish divergence now confirmed once again on the two-week timeframe. As shown in the two-week candlestick timeframe chart below, XRP has already broken out from a multi-year symmetrical triangle dating back to its peak in 2018. This breakout, paired with the hidden bullish divergence, sets the stage for a biblical price move. JD projects an immediate upside continuation once the current smaller triangle consolidation pattern resolves to the upside. This parabolic upside continuation is likely to push XRP toward levels last seen during its all-time high. In this case, the analyst projected a price move above the double-digit threshold, with a target around $17. Post-Rally Warning: 90% Crash Projection Follows However, JD’s analysis is not without caution. Just as the 2017 rally ended in a dramatic 94% crash from $3.4 to the $0.2 range, the analyst warned that the anticipated surge could lead to a similar fate. This trajectory is illustrated clearly in the chart above. After the anticipated euphoric move upward is complete, JD projects a sharp reversal toward a designated pink box area on the chart. This region, although not labeled with a specific price, lies well below current levels and may cause XRP to crash from double digits to below $1. Unfortunately, the majority of traders and investors could get rekt if they chase XRP near the peak. This follows similar behavior in 2018, where the parabolic rally was followed by an equally violent sell-off that trapped many traders at the top. As of now, XRP continues to coil within its consolidation triangle, and the breakout direction will likely determine the short-term fate of the cryptocurrency. XRP is currently trading at $2.28, up by 2.4% in the past 24 hours. A convincing break above the $3 mark would be necessary to invalidate the resistance of the current smaller triangle consolidation pattern and confirm the start of a parabolic move. Until then, there’s still a possibility that XRP will be rejected again at the triangle’s upper trendline.

Traders are constantly seeking the next opportunity to elevate their results. A common challenge, however, is that many focus on the same popular products and patterns. So, how can one differentiate their approach? One effective way is to explore less commonly traded currency pairs. While some might be concerned about liquidity issues with certain financial products, the Forex market is globally the most liquid. Even the least traded major forex pairs offer ample liquidity and unique opportunities. Following our recent analysis of AUD/CAD, we now invite you to discover how trading NZD/CAD can open new horizons, potentially generating alpha – returns that outperform the broader market or average trader. Read More: How to Trade AUDCAD Effectively - Exploiting the Range Opinions are the authors'; not necessarily that of OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc. or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers or directors. The provided publication is for informational and educational purposes only. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, an award winning forex, commodities and global indices analysis and news site service produced by OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc., please refer to the MarketPulse Terms of Use. Visit https://www.marketpulse.com/ to find out more about the beat of the global markets. © {CURRENT_YEAR} OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

Chainlink is set to play a major role as Hong Kong’s central bank takes a big step in its digital currency tests. Phase two of the e-HKD pilot will try moving tokenized Hong Kong dollars across borders. The plan is to swap e-HKD for A$DC, an Australian dollar stablecoin. This could cut settlement times from days to seconds. It may also show how central banks can work together with blockchain technology. Hong Kong And Australia Test Digital Cash According to reports, the project will use Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol, or CCIP, to handle transfers. The goal is simple. Move money in real time and make sure both sides get what they expect. Phase two kicks off with Hong Kong authorities and their counterparts in Australia. They will swap e-HKD for A$DC and aim for instant settlement. Based on reports, this setup could serve as a model for other central banks. Chainlink Tools In Use Chainlink is not just a name in the mix. It brings two big pieces of tech to the table. CCIP handles the cross-chain messages, acting like a bridge between different blockchains. The Digital Transfer Agent, or DTA, deals with compliance. It keeps track of who owns what token and makes sure rules in different countries are met. In May, World Liberty Financial tapped Chainlink for cross-chain stablecoin transfers covering USD1. That earlier deal hinted at what’s possible this time around. Big Names Join The Pilot Visa and ANZ are helping with payment processing for e-HKD and A$DC. Asset managers Fidelity International and ChinaAMC will also take part. Their job is to manage the tokenized funds on both sides. This mix of banks, asset managers and tech firms shows the project is more than a small test. It has real money and real risks involved. Reports disclosed that those risks are managed by a Payment-versus-Payment model. This means funds are only released when both sides confirm they have received the other asset. Market Moves And Reactions LINK, the token for Chainlink, jumped by 6% after news of the pilot broke. It now trades at $14.70. That rise follows a wider market rally driven by hopes that Bitcoin may hit $110,000 before the week’s end. According to market data, crypto traders often chase big targets. Short-term gains can be tempting. But they can also lead to quick sell-offs if the main story fades. Despite the rally, Bitcoin still tracks the equity swings rather closely. There is a mix of bulls and bears in futures data that suggests some people are not yet convinced this run will last. High volatility can shake out weaker hands at the first sign of trouble. A sudden change in risk sentiment or a fresh macro shock can quickly reverse gains. Featured image from Imagen, chart from TradingView

Quant (QNT) crypto is sitting pretty at slightly above $120. The big question, though, is whether it will smash past $200 by month’s end. At $122, QNT crypto has a ways to go—just another 63% leap to hit $200. As hefty as it sounds to ask for it in under three weeks, it has never climbed to above $400, so big moves aren’t out of the question, but the timing is tight for this sprint. (QNTUSD) DISCOVER: Next 1000X Crypto: 10+ Crypto Tokens That Can Hit 1000x in 2025 Will QNT Crypto Break $200 by June’s End? QNT has shown consistent crypto growth, with an over 60% rise this past 12 months, from a $75 low to the current $120 range. Its all-time high of $427.42 shows potential for major pumps. However, achieving a 63% increase in under three weeks would require exceptional market momentum, which the current trends do not fully support. Recent projections estimate QNT reaching $139 by June 13 and up to $155 by the end of June. If these figures are met, they will reflect a 13-26% increase, falling short of the $200 target. While a breakout above $150 can signal very bullish momentum, current analyses forecast a ceiling low below $200 for June, barring unexpected catalysts. DISCOVER: 9+ Best High-Risk, High-Reward Crypto to Buy This Year Impact of Recent Developments, Market Sentiment, and Technical Indicators QNT’s selection as a pioneer partner in the European Central Bank’s Digital Euro project enhances its long-term prospects. This partnership drove a price increase from $98 to above $115 last month. However, its short-term goal of reaching $200 remains limited without major surprises like announcements or milestones. Market highlights Ethereum, Solana, and SUI as stronger candidates for June gains, especially with their technical setups and network developments. QNT, while fundamentally sound, is less frequently cited for short-term outperformance. Its steady growth makes it a reliable long-term hold, but it’s likely not to lead the pack in June. QNT Relative Strength Index (RSI) is also hovering at 65, still considered neutral momentum in crypto, although closing to an oversold level. The current RSI level indeed has room for upward movement, but no immediate signs of a breakout are expected. (QNTRSI) Interest in QNT in online discussions is also moderate compared to other altcoins. This, too, shows its lack of the immediate hype needed for a rapid 60% rally. QNT may not reach $200 this month, but it has steady gain potential, as shown this past year. QNT’s role in the Digital Euro project also supports long-term value. QNT is one of the crypto coins to watch. DISCOVER: Best Meme Coin ICOs to Invest in 2025 Join The 99Bitcoins News Discord Here For The Latest Market Updates Key Takeaways Will QNT crypto break $200 by June’s end? QNT’s recent developments, market sentiment, and technical indicators The post WILL QNT Crypto Break $200? Is Quant Crypto the Best Altcoin to HODL in June? appeared first on 99Bitcoins.

The Dollar Index has been maintaining below the key 100.00 Psychological Zone after a steep downfall since the beginning of 2025 and is currently right in the middle of the Major Forex currency board. The US Dollar has recently benefited from several tailwinds: de-escalating US-China trade tensions, underscored by ongoing talks between key officials in London; a stronger-than-expected US Non-Farm Payrolls report; and a Federal Reserve that remains reluctant to cut interest rates. The current US Federal Funds rate, holding at 4.50%, notably stands among the highest interest rates within major OECD economies, further supporting the greenback – The FED is still expected to keep its main policy rate unchanged at the upcoming meeting on June 18th. This is still not enough for Dollar buyers to push the index above the 100.00 mark. Let's take a look at the intra-day timeframes to spot what prevent the dollar to break the barrier and any signs of breakout to the upside or the downside. For a look at the bigger picture, please refer to the article below: Read More: Dollar Under Pressure - Dollar Index Higher Timeframe Analysis Opinions are the authors'; not necessarily that of OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc. or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers or directors. The provided publication is for informational and educational purposes only. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, an award winning forex, commodities and global indices analysis and news site service produced by OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc., please refer to the MarketPulse Terms of Use. Visit https://www.marketpulse.com/ to find out more about the beat of the global markets. © {CURRENT_YEAR} OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

Dateline Resources (ASX: DTR) has gained further political support in its bid to develop what could be America’s second rare earth mine following the public backing of US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. Speaking to Fox News this past Sunday, Burgum emphasized the importance of the Colosseum mine project in California, calling its revival a “pivotal step” towards bolstering America’s supply of critical minerals. This endorsement, says project owner Dateline, “underscores the strategic importance of Colosseum in reducing US reliance on overseas sources for rare earth elements.” It follows an earlier approval by the Interior Department of the company’s existing mining plan. Shortly after Burgum’s public backing, Dateline’s management team led by director Stephen Baghdadi met with Burgum at the Department of the Interior headquarters in Washington, D.C., to discuss the next steps for the project. The discussion highlighted the mine’s potential to contribute to the US supply chain for rare earth elements, which are essential for advanced technologies and national security, “sooner than any other known deposit” in the country, Dateline said in a press release. The Australian miner added that Burgum, joined by senior appointees from the DOI and President Donald Trump’s National Energy Dominance Council, “reaffirmed his commitment to bolstering US rare earth production, expressing specific enthusiasm for the Colosseum mine.” Sitting along California’s Walker Lane Trend, the Colosseum project is conveniently situated 10 km north of the Mountain Pass mine held by MP Materials (NYSE: MP), the only producer of rare earths in the US. Dateline’s project already has a rich history of mining dating to the California Gold Rush era. Industrial-scale gold mining took place on the property in the late 1980s under the ownership of Canada’s LAC Minerals, producing a total of 344,000 oz. from two open pits until its closure in 1993. Barrick Gold then held the project for two decades but conducted minimal activity. Similarity to Mountain Pass Dateline took over the Colosseum project in 2021 and has since reviewed work undertaken by the USGS to identify radio metric signatures for the Colosseum – Mountain Pass corridor. Upon completion of its review, Dateline’s team concluded that the project shares the same geological setting as Mountain Pass, which started production in 1952 and was a primary global source of rare earth elements (REE) from the 1960s to the 1990s. Technical assessments suggest the potential for REE-bearing ore within Colosseum’s claim boundary, Dateline said. However, due to its location within the Mojave National Preserve, the project has been stalled in recent years. The Colosseum project currently has no estimated resources for REE, only a JORC-2012-compliant gold resource of 1.1 million oz., with about two-thirds in the measured and indicated categories. A scoping study in August 2024 outlined an eight-plus-year mine life averaging 75,000 oz. of gold production per annum. Dateline closed Tuesday’s trading session in Australia down 20% at A$0.10 a share, for a market capitalization of A$281.4 million.

Dogecoin skidded to a low near $0.168 last week before snapping higher to trade around $0.19 on Tuesday morning, up roughly six percent over 24 hours. The rebound unfolded in lock-step with bitcoin’s own recovery from the technically charged $106,800 level to just above $109,000, re-invigorating short-term dip-buyers across the memecoin complex. Dogecoin Needs To Conquer This Price Level Technical analyst Kevin (@Kev_Capital_TA) argues that the Fib defence has restored bullish structure—but only up to a point. “After coming down to the .382 Fib Dogecoin finally found the support it needed along with BTC finding support at 100K,” he wrote. “As it goes for the immediate future of **DOGE it has a lot of work to do. Big resistance at .19-.21 cent range will need to be broken in order to head back up to that .26-.28 level. Indicators on the daily time frame look bullish.” Bitcoin’s behaviour therefore remains pivotal. Spot BTC is hovering near $109,000 this morning and has so far defended the $106,800 pivot flagged by several high-profile analysts, including Michael van de Poppe, as the “linchpin for a potential rally”. Should Bitcoin extend toward the $120,000-$130,000 band, Kevin argues that Dogecoin will decouple from its dependence on the benchmark “when dominance tops and the market sniffs out easing monetary policy.” Crypto pundit Chandler (“@ChandlerCharts”) is less sanguine. Overlaying DOGE’s four-day price against DOGE/BTC, market cap and a relative-strength oscillator, his graphic highlights three prior compression phases—shaded grey—where the memecoin failed to sustain outperformance against Bitcoin. “Even if DOGE breaks above its November highs, it won’t feel great if DOGE/BTC ends up way lower than it was at the November highs,” he cautioned. Chandler calculates that with BTC at $107,600, Dogecoin would have to print roughly $0.52 simply to reach a higher high against Bitcoin. “If BTC runs to $120-130k, DOGE needs to be around $0.60+ for holding DOGE to make sense over BTC.” That threshold underscores the importance of the $0.19-$0.21 supply zone visible on both analysts’ charts. On Kevin’s canvas it coincides with the 0.618-0.703 Fib cluster; on Chandler’s, it overlaps the upper edge of an eighteen-month value area that has repeatedly rejected upside probes. A decisive close above $0.211 would place the May 11 summit at $0.2597 back in play and, more importantly for bulls. For now, traders are watching two numbers: $106,800 on Bitcoin and $0.21 on Dogecoin. A clean break of the latter would validate Kevin’s bullish roadmap toward $0.26-$0.28 and, by extension, keep alive the possibility of Chandler’s higher-high scenario on the DOGE/BTC cross. Until then, the memecoin’s fate indeed “remains in the hands of BTC’s capability in heading higher.” At press time, DOGE traded at $0.19.

Karelian Diamond Resources (LON: KDR) has registered its Lahtojoki mining concession in the Finnish land registry, advancing its plan to develop what could become the European Union’s first diamond mine. This registration, handled by the Finnish mining authority TUKES, allows the company to proceed with further development plans for the Lahtojoki diamond deposit, which is known for its high-quality gem diamonds and potential for significant economic returns. TUKES had previously approved the concession and is also responsible for issuing the mining certificate. Karelian noted that a hearing on compensation matters related to the project has been postponed until the Fall 2025, potentially impacting the timeline for full-scale operations. Lahtojoki is known for its high-quality gem diamonds, including rare pink and coloured stones that can fetch up to 20 times more than typical colourless gems. The company believes the diamondiferous kimberlite pipe has the potential to support a profitable, low strip ratio open-pit operation. The Dublin-based company is simultaneously exploring and advancing other assets in Finland, containing nickel, copper and platinum group elements. It is also advancing exploration at a site in the Kuhmo region where it aims to discover the source of a rare green diamond it found in 2022.

Credit: Tudor Gold Tudor Gold (TSXV: TUD) has agreed to acquire American Creek Resources (TSXV: AMK) in an all-share deal that would increase its interest in the Treaty Creek project in northwest British Columbia. Tudor currently owns 60% of Treaty Creek, which hosts a large gold-copper porphyry system alongside several other mineralized zones across a 179-sq.-km land package. The property borders Seabridge Gold’s KSM — the world’s largest undeveloped gold-copper project — to the southwest and Newmont’s Brucejack property to the southeast. The remaining 40% interest is split evenly between American Creek and Teuton Resources (TSXV: TUO). Under a letter of intent signed last week, Tudor will acquire American Creek by issuing shares on a 0.238-for-1 basis, which, based on spot prices, represents a premium of 40%. This would increase its stake in the project to 80%. American Creek’s shares jumped 9.1% to C$0.12 at Tuesday’s open, with a market capitalization of approximately C$52 million. Tudor fell about 1.8% to C$0.54 apiece, giving it a C$139.6 million market capitalization. Following completion of the merger, American Creek shareholders would own approximately 30% of the combined company. “Our acquisition of American Creek cements our interest in the Treaty Creek project, which hosts one of the largest gold discoveries in Canada with excellent potential for expansion and additional gold-copper discoveries, at a reasonable per ounce of gold equivalent cost,” Joe Ovsenek, CEO of Tudor Gold, stated in a press release. “We also believe that through the consolidation of our two companies that operating costs will be more efficient and Tudor will be better positioned to secure future exploration and development capital,” American Creek’s CEO Darren Blaney added. The Treaty Creek project is anchored by the Goldstorm copper-gold-silver deposit that has an indicated mineral resource of 27.9 million oz. in gold-equivalent and an inferred resource of 6 million oz. With these estimates, Goldstorm is considered to be one of the largest gold discoveries in the last 30 years, Tudor said. Before Tudor’s involvement in the project, Treaty Creek already had a rich exploration history that can be traced back to the late 1920s. Still, complete records of exploration activity can only be found for the 80s, when Teuton, led by Ed Kruchkowski, staked the claims and made several discoveries through option agreements. Tudor took on the project in 2016 to follow up on prior work by American Creek, leading to the Goldstorm discovery that year.

The morning session in Forex is a quiet one with only the UK Jobs report that was released overnight. The Data for the United Kingdom, release at 2:00 A.M. E.T. came out weak and GBPUSD has started to build a top on the charts. The Unemployent Rate elevated slightly to 4.6% from 4.5%, with lower average earnings. This release may console the Bank of England towards the continuation of their cut cycle that has started in last August, taking the UK's main policy rate from 5.25% to the current 4.25% with progressive 25bps cuts. The precise number for the jobs report was 89K with the last release at 112K. We will dive into a technical analysis for GBPUSD starting from the daily and going towards the hourly timeframes. Opinions are the authors'; not necessarily that of OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc. or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers or directors. The provided publication is for informational and educational purposes only. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, an award winning forex, commodities and global indices analysis and news site service produced by OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc., please refer to the MarketPulse Terms of Use. Visit https://www.marketpulse.com/ to find out more about the beat of the global markets. © {CURRENT_YEAR} OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

Inflation news is affecting Bitcoin, with the BTC price pacing just below $110,000, trading at $109,480 after briefly punching through that resistance earlier in the week. Crypto traders are now looking to June 11’s Consumer Price Index release, a potential spark or a wet blanket, depending on how the numbers land. Meanwhile, the Producer Price Index very likely could tank the market as well; the PMI services and manufacturing prices report is also abhorrently bad. Most likely the Fed will wait on cutting rates. As long as there is the tariffbullshit, no deals, the deadline not over, it’s all irrelevant. The first cut will be in September, if at all. DISCOVER: 9+ Best High-Risk, High-Reward Crypto to Buy This Year Inflation News: Bitcoin Sentiment Reaches Greed Zone Even with no hope for rate cuts, market sentiment is soaring, with traders anticipating another potential rally to all-time highs. However, Bitcoin’s entry into the so-called “Greed” zone is ringing alarm bells for some analysts. Historically, this sentiment level has signaled a market nearing its peak, often followed by a retracement. “Bitcoin’s momentum is strong, but the Greed zone warrants caution. Over-optimism could precede a correction,” noted one market analyst. BitcoinPriceMarket CapBTC$2.18T24h7d30d1yAll time 99Bitcoin’s analysts peg a 0.2% monthly increase, which would tick the yearly rate up to 2.5% from April’s 2.3%. A hotter inflation readout could snap Bitcoin’s rally, potentially dragging it toward the $108,000 support zone as wary investors reassess their risk tolerance. Conversely, inflation coming in softer than forecast could deliver a lifeline to Bitcoin’s upwards momentum. A year-over-year rate of 2.1%, for instance, might be the catalyst to flip bearish narratives and clear a path past $110,000, potentially en route to smashing through previous highs around $112,500. DISCOVER: Next 1000X Crypto: 10+ Crypto Tokens That Can Hit 1000x in 2025 Institutional Buying Fuels Optimism Strategy, formerly known as MicroStrategy, dropped over $110 million to scoop up 1,045 BTC, sending a clear message about where institutional confidence lies. Meanwhile, the broader market is keeping a cautious eye on geopolitical uncertainties. U.S.-China trade tensions have crept into focus as Treasury Secretary Scot Bessent meets with China’s Vice Premier over semiconductor export rules. The outcomes from this high-stakes chess match could ripple well beyond the two nations, with potential shocks to global markets. Where Does Bitcoin Go From Here After Inflation News? Where are we? At its current levels, Bitcoin finds itself at a crossroads. With technical indicators favoring buyers but external factors weighing heavily, the following scenarios could unfold based on the CPI report’s outcome: Negative CPI Surprise: Higher-than-expected inflation could trigger a drop to $108,000 or lower, intensifying bearish sentiment. Positive CPI Surprise: Softer inflation could reignite bullish momentum, pushing Bitcoin past $110,000 and potentially targeting $111,980. For now, Bitcoin traders and investors are holding their breath, waiting for the critical CPI data. With institutional buying lending support and Bitcoin’s status as an inflation hedge gaining traction, this week could set the stage for the next big move in the cryptocurrency market. DISCOVER: Best Meme Coin ICOs to Invest in 2025 Join The 99Bitcoins News Discord Here For The Latest Market Updates Key Takeaways Inflation news is affecting Bitcoin, with BTC pacing just below $110,000, trading at $109,480 Dollar bulls are stuck. Bitcoin isn’t exactly flying either, but it’s holding firm. The post How Will Bitcoin React to CPI Data: What Does Inflation News Mean For FOMC Bitcoin Play? appeared first on 99Bitcoins.

Crypto analyst Crypto Bullet has raised the possibility of the Ethereum price surging by 38% soon. He alluded to the 50EMA as the only thing holding ETH from witnessing this price surge, but suggested that it could change soon with a breakout on the horizon. Ethereum Price Eyes 38% Jump To $3,500 In an X post, Crypto Bullet predicted that the Ethereum price could record a 38% surge to $3,500. This came following as he highlighted the ongoing battle between ETH and the 50EMA, noting that this indicator was the only thing holding the altcoin back from a parabolic surge. The analyst added that on average, a breakout results in a 38% pump, which puts Ethereum exactly at $3,500. As NewsBTC reported, Crypto Bullet also recently predicted that the Ethereum price could rally to $3,300 as a Morningstar Candle pattern formed. Back then, he noted that ETH was facing tough resistance at $2,500 but affirmed that the resistance would be broken in due time. He indicated that a breakout from that resistance will usher in the rally to $3,300. The Ethereum price has now broken above the $2,500 resistance, which provides a bullish outlook for the largest altcoin by market cap. Based on Crypto Bullet’s prediction, a rally to $3,300 may already be underway, which could then lead ETH to the $3,500 target. In a more recent X post, the crypto analyst commented on the recent break above $2,500. He stated that the Ethereum price is now trying to break the 200-day MA, which is between $3,000 and $3,300, for the fifth time. He indicated that a breakout above the range is likely to happen on this fifth attempt. His accompanying showed that ETH could rally to the $4,000 level if a successful breakout occurs. ETH About To Begin A New Bull Run Crypto analyst Trader Tardigrade predicted that another bull run is about to start for the Ethereum price. He noted that ETH’s daily candle closed above the resistance level at $2,650 yesterday and also opened above this resistance level today. The analyst added that ETH is now moving above it, which signals the start of a new bull run. His accompanying chart showed that the Ethereum price is breaking out of an ascending triangle, which could send the altcoin above the psychological $3,000 level. Crypto analyst Mikybull Crypto also declared that Ethereum’s breakout will be huge, with ETH still maintaining its current range between $2,400 and $2,600. At the time of writing, the Ethereum price is trading at around $2,670, up over 7% in the last 24 hours, according to data from CoinMarketCap.

“What is Chainlink Crypto” is trending again on Google because Chainlink’s CCIP has hit a milestone successfully linking Hong Kong’s e-HKD digital currency with Australia’s A$DC stablecoin. This test, part of the HKMA-driven Phase 2 e-HKD+ program, showcased possibilities of blockchain innovation and lured in high-profile collaborators like Visa, ANZ, and Fidelity International. The double standards for Chainlink are absurd. Any other altcoin would pump 50% on Visa even mentioning them yet Chainlink barely moves. A big run-up for $LINK could be coming. (X) What’s The Point of These Big News Stories If It Doesn’t Affect Price? The e-HKD+ program aims to uncover real-world use cases for Hong Kong’s CBDC by focusing on key areas like programmability, tokenization, and near real-time settlement of cross-border transactions. The recent trial targeted seamless exchanges between e-HKD and tokenized assets. The e-HKD itself is a prototype for a digital version of the Hong Kong dollar built on Ethereum’s ERC-20 standard, underscoring blockchain adoption in institutional finance. (LINKUSDT) Chainlink’s CCIP played a pivotal role by bridging Australian bank ANZ’s private blockchain (DASchain) with Ethereum’s testnet, Sepolia. By leveraging Chainlink’s infrastructure, the process ensured both the e-HKD and A$DC sides of the transaction were resolved almost instantaneously. Chainlink’s Price Surge and Bullish Momentum On the heels of this successful test, Chainlink’s LINK token rallied, gaining 7% in the last 24 hours and trading above $14. Traders are bullish, with technical indicators pointing toward further potential gains. Chainlink’s current support at $15.23 is holding steady, setting the stage for a potential climb higher. Resistance looms at $16.19, but a strong push could clear the way for an advance toward $18.81. DISCOVER: Next 1000X Crypto: 10+ Crypto Tokens That Can Hit 1000x in 2025 Implications for CBDCs and Stablecoins. What is Chainlink Crypto Chainlink’s CCIP is becoming a centerpiece in blockchain interoperability, providing the connective tissue between decentralized ledgers and legacy finance. With the e-HKD trial hitting all the right notes, Chainlink is positioning itself as a pivotal player in the digital currency ecosystem. DISCOVER: Best Meme Coin ICOs to Invest in 2025 Join The 99Bitcoins News Discord Here For The Latest Market Updates Key Takeaways “What is Chainlink Crypto” is trending again on Google because Chainlink’s CCIP has hit a milestone successfully linking Hong Kong’s e-HKD By leveraging Chainlink’s infrastructure, the process ensured both the e-HKD and A$DC sides of the transaction were resolved almost instantaneously. The post Chainlink Just Bridged e-HKD and A$DC: Here’s Why It Matters appeared first on 99Bitcoins.

Paris-based Blockchain Group, the Blockchain Treasury, announced a plan to raise $340 million on 9 June 2025. This follows its recent purchase of $68 million worth Bitcoin. As of June 2025, the company holds 1471 BTC – a significant position for a European entity – as it doubles down on its Bitcoin strategy in Europe. Notably, the planned $340 million capital raise could potentially add over 3100 BTC to the company’s treasury. Much like Michael Saylor and Strategy, the Blockchain group is positioning itself as Europe’s first dedicated Bitcoin treasury firm, having started its BTC acquisition program in November 2024. DISCOVER: 9+ Best High-Risk, High-Reward Crypto to Buy in June 2025 Blockchain Group Adopted Bitcoin Strategy In November 2024 “TBG is focused on increasing BTC per fully diluted share over time,” the company revealed about its Bitcoin strategy. Furthermore, the company said that the launch of its BTC strategy is “supporting TBG’s recapitalization.” BitcoinPriceMarket CapBTC$2.18T24h7d30d1yAll time The company’s strategy is inspired by the at-the-market (ATM) programs. They are commonly used in the US, which allow for flexible and ongoing equity issuance. Through a partnership with asset manager TOBAM, Blockchain Group will enable daily subscription of its ordinary shares after market close. “TOBAM is an asset management company providing innovative investment solutions and is an investor in the Company (on behalf of the funds it manages or clients under discretionary mandates),” said the Blockchain Groups’ press release. “The Program allows TOBAM, on a daily basis, to subscribe to ordinary shares of the Company by submitting a subscription request after market close.” DISCOVER: Best New Cryptocurrencies to Invest in 2025 Key Takeaways Blockchain Group’s bold move to raise $340 million for further Bitcoin purchases highlights the growing institutionalization of crypto in Europe. Blockchain Group’s announcement comes amid a steady rise in crypto adoption across Europe. A recent study revealed that only 40% of European financial institutions currently have, or have had, investments in any type of cryptocurrency, indicating significant room for growth. The post Europe’s First Bitcoin Treasury Company Raises $340M After $68M BTC Buy appeared first on 99Bitcoins.

Ripple, the blockchain-based payment protocol company, has earmarked an additional $5 million in investments to bolster blockchain education and research across the Asia Pacific region (APAC). In an announcement made on 10 June 2025, it committed to expanding its University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI) in the APAC region through the allocated funds. The additional $5 million will be used to further academic research and student-led innovations across six countries. The APAC region is home to some of the fastest-growing fintech markets. By renewing ties with South Korea, Japan, and Singapore and forging fresh alliances with Taiwan and Australia, Ripple aims to strengthen its position in the region, with total investments amounting to $11 million since UBRI’s launch. Explore: Top 20 Crypto to Buy in June 2025 Technicalities of the UBRI Funding Scheme UBRI has assured $1.1 million to Yonsei University (YU) in South Korea, 1.5 million to Kyoto University (KyotoU) in Japan, and in Singapore, the total funding has crossed $3 million between Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS). While the NTU will focus on developing an autonomous AI agent network on Ripple’s XRP ledger (XRPL), the company has renewed ties with the NUS after its past UBRI funding helped create the first university-based DAO (decentralised autonomous organisation) in Asia. Professor Yang Liu of the College of Computing and Data Science at NTU said, “With our current grant, we are developing an autonomous AI agent network on the XRP Ledger to create a transparent, modular, accessible, and collaborative AI platform harnessing blockchain technology. We believe this innovation will be pivotal in shaping the future of AI.” Furthermore, the company has partnered with the National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST) in Taiwan to research asset tokenisation on XRPL, Ethereum, and Solana networks. “NKUST is excited about this new chapter, partnering with Ripple’s University Blockchain Research Initiative to explore the potential of Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenisation on the XRP Ledger,” said Echo Huang, a professor at NKUST. Australia’s Victoria University (VU), in partnership with UBRI, will focus on developing a blockchain-based curriculum, meanwhile, the Australian National University (ANU) will continue its research into blockchain law and smart contract platforms such as Evernode. Ripple’s total allocation across Australian universities stands at $1.3 million. Explore: Best New Cryptocurrencies to Invest in 2025 UBRI Research Highlights Across APAC and Major Ripple Initiatives Other Ripple UBRI-funded research in the APAC region includes research into blockchain sharding, layer 2 integration, and NFT privacy using zk-SNARKs (Succinct Non-interactive Argument of Knowledge) at Korea University (KU), conducted by professors Ik Rae Jong and Dong Hoon Lee. Additionally, Professor Hyunok Oh from Hanyang University (HYU) in Korea is working on zk-SNARK optimisation for blockchain privacy and scalability. Ripple will host its 7th annual UBRI Connect as a part of XRP Ledger Apex 2025, with a pre-summit at NUS in Singapore. The event will bring together experts from 60 institutions across 28 countries for academic panels, workshops, and research discussions. The company has previously committed $25 million in RLUSD, Ripple’s homegrown stablecoin, to nonprofit organisations in the US to provide better resources for American teachers. Ripple also intends to improve crypto-related education in the US and has launched the National Cryptocurrency Organisation, a non-profit, as a part of this initiative. Explore: 9+ Best High-Risk, High-Reward Crypto to Buy in June 2025 Key Takeaways Ripple has committed an additional $5 million in investments to bolster blockchain education and research across the APAC region Ripple has invested more than $11m in the APAC region since UBRI’s launch Ties with South Korea, Japan, and Singapore have been renewed while fresh alliances have been formed with Taiwan and Australia The post Ripple Puts Up Additional $5M for Student-Led Innovations in Asia Pacific appeared first on 99Bitcoins.

“You Get What You Pay For” — The Hidden Cost Behind Prop Firm Discounts Why Prop Trading Firms Resort to Discounts to Attract Business I still remember my time living in the Far East, where bargaining was part of everyday life. Whether at a local market or a boutique shop, paying full price was almost unheard of — you always asked for a discount. Fast forward to today, and the same mindset has evolved globally, largely thanks to the internet. We now expect coupons, promo codes, and discounts when shopping online, whether we’re buying clothes, electronics, or even booking a hotel. But there’s one space where discounts have become surprisingly common, proprietary (prop) trading firms. Let’s explore why prop trading firms offer discounts and what these promotions reveal about their business model. Prop Trading Discounts: A Common Strategy In the prop trading world, discounts are everywhere. Whether you’re browsing Twitter, Telegram, or a prop firm’s own website, you’ll almost always see a promotion: • 10% off your first challenge • 20% off holiday promotions • Black Friday sales with up to 50–90% off On the surface, this may feel like any other e-commerce deal. But buying a prop trading challenge is not like buying an item on the Amazon and here’s why. When you buy something on Amazon, you usually have free returns or refunds if things go wrong. With a prop trading challenge, once you pay and fail the challenge, there are no refunds, you have to pay again if you want another shot. . In fact, prop firms count on traders failing. The business model relies on collecting fees from challenge attempts, knowing that only a fraction of traders will pass and qualify for a funded account. Three Strikes and You’re Out: The Business Model In American baseball, a strikeout occurs a batter when swings or misses three times or the ball goes the plate for a strike when he doesn’t swing. That is why we say three strikes and you are out. Several years ago I had a conversation with a contact at a forex broker. He shared an interesting insight: “Most clients who fund an account will replenish funds two more times before giving up. Three tries, then they’re done.” Using similar logic, prop trading firms expect that most traders will try to pass a challenge at least three times before either succeeding or walking away. The firm uses the revenue from failed attempts to finance its operations, pay out funded traders, and remain profitable. What Do Discounts Reveal About a Prop Firm? Not all discounts are created equal. In my experience observing the market, I’ve seen discounts range from as low as 10-20,% to 40-50% and as high 80-90%, which should tell you a lot about a prop firm: • Smaller discounts (10–20%): These firms are offering mild incentives without appearing desperate. It’s often a sign that they have a healthy customer base and are confident in their value proposition. • Large discounts (50% or more): This may be a red flag. A firm aggressively slashing prices might be struggling to attract clients and may be relying heavily on repeat failures to sustain its revenue. • Another reason may be that they are counting on a trader failing a challenge or even if passing, failing with a funded account. Taken at face value, the larger the discount, the more anxious the prop firm may be to secure your business and confident that following its rules you will fail. This should be a warning sign that makes you cautious before signing up. When I studied economics in college, I recall a phrase, “caveat emptor,” which means “let the buyer beware.” This phrase applies to prop firms offers as well, especially those with ootsized discounts. How to Choose the Right Prop Trading Firm I have no axe to grind with the prop firm industry. It has a place as long as you go into it with your eyes wide open as there is a limited downside risk (i.e. the cost of a challenge) with a large upside potential (even with the odds stacked against you). It is hard enough to pass a challenge that you should not have t worry about getting a payout if you are able to get a funded account and trade profitably within the prop firm However, before you jump into a heavily discounted challenge, here are some tips to protect yourself: • Do your due diligence: Research the firm’s reputation, terms, and conditions. • Check their partnerships:. Look for firms “powered by” reputable brokers • Check out reviews: Read reviews and not on sites promoting a prop firm • Understand payout policies: Ensure you know how profits are shared and when withdrawals are allowed. • Use the discount factor as a filter: An excessive discount can be a red flag, not just a great deal. Cheaper Isn’t Always Better At the end of the day, it’s smart to compare offers and look for discounts but remember, in prop trading as in retail, cheaper isn’t always better. I may be dating myself but there used to a television commercial for coffee that said, “In the words of John J. Arbuckle, ‘You get what you pay for.” Passing a prop trading challenge is hard enough without adding the risk of working with a questionable firm. Choose wisely, read the fine print, and don’t be lured solely by price cuts. Your success as a trader depends not just on your skills, but trading with a firm that gives you sa reasonable” chance of success in a business where prop firm rules tilt the playing field in their favor. . To get all the insights and protect yourself, Join our GTA – Global Traders Association – for FREE Clik HERE to Join Use your membership in GTA to get a Discount of up to 50% on AT – The Amazing Trader – Algo Charting & Trading Softwear – Click HERE for a FREE Trial

Bitcoin’s price shook off last week’s dip and climbed sharply on Tuesday morning in Asia, topping $110,000 briefly before settling around $109,450. Traders rushed back in after the asset dipped close to $100,000, feeding a sharp rebound that leaves Bitcoin just 2.8% shy of its record high. A blend of forced liquidations, surging derivatives volume, easing US–China trade tensions and steady on-chain withdrawals is driving the move. Heavy Liquidations Shift The Balance According to Coinglass, nearly $203 million in Bitcoin positions were wiped out over the past 24 hours. Of that, $195 million were against shorts. When so many short bets unwind at once, it forces buyers to cover positions, which can send prices spiking. Yet history shows these “short squeezes” can reverse quickly when traders take profits. Based on reports, Bitcoin’s derivatives volume more than doubled, climbing over 110% to $110 billion. Open interest then followed suit, expanding 7.3% to almost $77 billion. These kinds of inflows indicate that new money is accumulating. Both open interest and volume rising tends to indicate enthusiasm—and a willingness to carry through positions with swings. Trade Diplomacy Lifts Risk Assets Talks resumed in London on June 9 between the US and China over tariffs and export rules. Even a hint of progress tends to boost appetite for riskier assets, and Bitcoin isn’t immune. Headlines of smoother trade ties lifted equities earlier this week—and crypto traders moved in tandem. If negotiations hit a snag, though, Bitcoin could slide with global markets. On-Chain Data Shows Steady Accumulation CryptoQuant’s numbers reveal that centralized exchanges have shed 550,000 BTC since July 2024, falling from 1.55 million to about 1.01 million today. As coins leave exchanges, float tightens. At the same time, the Coinbase Premium indicator rose, with US buyers paying more than overseas investors. Santiment also reports renewed accumulation among wallets holding 10–100 BTC. This pattern hints at long-term holding rather than quick trades. Correlation And Caution Remain When you consider the rally, Bitcoin still dances on the tunes of equity price swings. Futures have mixed bets between bulls and bears, showing portrait-wise signs that certainly not everybody is convinced this run is going to hold. High volatility would tend to wash out weak hands at the slightest hint of trouble, any reversal of risk sentiment, or a sudden macro shock would cost the rally dearly. Optimism is building as analysts talk of fresh all-time highs. Some even eye $150,000 by the end of the year if US debt levels climb further. But sustaining a rally of that magnitude will require more than forced liquidations. Traders will watch derivatives flows, on-chain reserves and trade headlines for signs of real, lasting demand before pushing prices much higher. Featured image from Imagen, chart from TradingView

Could this be the year that Northern Dynasty Minerals’ (TSX: NDM, NYSE: NAK) controversial Pebble polymetallic project in southwest Alaska finally makes strides? Northern Dynasty – together with the state of Alaska and six Native villages – is awaiting news on its legal bid to overturn a 2023 United States Environmental Protection Agency veto against Pebble. A decision in the matter is expected in 2025, and CEO Ron Thiessen is optimistic that the mine could open by the end of 2032 if the courts rule favourably. At stake is a multi-billion-dollar investment to develop what is considered the world’s largest untapped copper deposit. Besides significant amounts of gold, molybdenum, and silver, Pebble also contains a substantial rhenium resource, a mineral critical for military applications. And while the project – which lies near Bristol Bay, home to the world’s largest sockeye salmon fisheries – has faced strong opposition for decades due to its potential environmental impact, Thiessen says President Trump’s push to hike critical mineral production may just be what Pebble needed. Veto removal tailwind “There’s a good chance that the veto can get removed in the near term, maybe sometime this summer,” Thiessen told The Northern Miner in an interview in May. “Thankfully, we have an administration that doesn’t really like vetoes and wants to see resource development.” The veto’s removal would set the stage for the US Army Corps of Engineers, which has its own approvals process, to revisit its refusal. The corps had said the EPA veto blocked its path. “If the Army Corps of Engineers can do the remand order, I think there’s a realistic possibility a permit could be issued under the remand order next year,” Thiessen said. That would push Northern Dynasty to start work on a feasibility study, which Thiessen estimates would take two years. If construction of the access infrastructure started in 2027, “you’d get through that by the end of 2028 and then you’d have four years of construction – so something like 2032” for the mine to open, he said. Long road Not everyone shares that view. Longtime mining analyst John Tumazos, for one, says Thiessen is too optimistic. “The project is going to happen but it’s going to take time,” Tumazos, head of New Jersey-based Very Independent Research, said in an interview. Building Pebble “is going to be a process with multiple phases that are each going to take multiple years,” he added. Thiessen “isn’t going to be the one that builds the mine. This is going to take 10 or 20 years.” Although Tumazos expects the US Supreme Court to eventually hear Northern Dynasty’s challenge of the EPA veto and to rule in the company’s favour, allowing it to apply for an environmental permit, “I would be surprised if it got permitted in as little as three years even with the support of the Trump administration and the Army Corps of Engineers,” he said. Bringing in an outside investor to help build the mine – as Northern Dynasty wants to do – would also extend the timeline. Any major miner that looked at Pebble would probably perform its own detailed engineering work, Tumazos said. Activists dug in What’s more, organizations that oppose Pebble would still have the legal right to file suits in federal courts. This would create additional delays and conceivably make potential investors hesitant, according to Tumazos. Conservation groups aren’t giving up the fight. Organizations such as the Center for Biological Diversity, the Friends of the Earth and the Natural Resources Defense Council – along with the United Tribes of Bristol Bay and commercial fishermen – last year filed to intervene in support of the EPA’s action, arguing that the mine would “irreversibly damage” Bristol Bay and its ecosystem. “Pebble Mine continues to be an appalling idea that would devastate the Bristol Bay watershed,” Marlee Goska, Alaska attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity, told The Northern Miner via e-mail. “The mine would sacrifice the greatest sockeye salmon run in the world, as well as important habitat for brown bears and endangered Iliamna Lake seals. The federal government was right to put a stop to Pebble, and we’ll fight hard if it’s dragged back to life as part of Trump’s reckless and damaging push to fast-track mining.” Including direct and indirect expenses, Northern Dynasty pegs the cost of building Pebble at $6.77 billion. It’s “most likely” that infrastructure including an access road and a power plant would be paid for by partners such as utilities in return for tolls or lease payments, the company says. Copper mother lode Despite the massive price tag, Thiessen says copper’s demand prospects justify the project. “It’s the copper that will put the mine into production,” he says. Pebble holds measured and indicated resources of 6.5 billion tonnes grading 0.4% copper, 0.34 gram per tonne gold, 240 parts per million molybdenum, and 1.7 grams silver, according to the 2023 preliminary economic assessment. This equates to 57 billion lb. copper, 71 million oz. gold, 3.4 billion lb. molybdenum, and 345 million oz. silver. Inferred resources add 4.5 billion tonnes at 0.25% copper, 0.25 gram gold, 226 ppm molybdenum and 1.2 grams silver, containing 25 billion lb. copper, 36 million oz. gold, 2.2 billion lb. molybdenum, and 170 million oz. Silver. The mine would produce 6.4 billion lb. of copper, 7.4 million oz. of gold, 300 million lb. of molybdenum, 37 million oz. of silver and 200,000 kg of rhenium over 20 years, according to the study. Fueled by trends such as urbanization and artificial intelligence, copper demand is facing a 70% increase by the middle of the century, BHP (ASX: BHP) CEO Mike Henry said in March. To reach global climate objectives by 2050, the world would need a major copper project to be discovered and put in production every year between now and 2035, according to S&P Global. ”We’re starting to come into a period where every year, there’s going to be a copper deficit,” Thiessen said. “Where is the West going to get its copper?” Pebble has been on Thiessen’s – and the industry’s – radar for decades. Cominco, then an independent company, discovered the deposit in 1987. After making an initial approach in 1994, Thiessen finally bought the property from Teck Cominco for $14 million in 2002. Since then, Thiessen has held talks with at least four miners – BHP, Rio Tinto (ASX, LSE: RIO), Anglo American (LSE: AAL) and First Quantum Minerals (TSX: FM) – about investing in the project. Although some of the approaches resulted in preliminary agreements, none yielded a permanent deal. Managing salmon impacts Despite widespread concerns that open-pit mining operations at Pebble would threaten the region’s sockeye salmon fishery, Thiessen is unmoved. He points to Northern Dynasty’s final economic impact study, which showed no measurable impact on fisheries or critical fish habitat. “I would be deterred if there was a big lake that we would have to destroy and not allow salmon to spawn. That would be a deal killer – but there’s no deal killer here,” he says. “It’s my intention to have a mine built that will not have catastrophic tailings failures and will not harm the fisheries.” As a mining veteran, Thiessen is only too aware that deposits like Pebble don’t come around every day. “If I gave up on Pebble, I’d look for another Pebble somewhere else – but I know that the chance of me discovering another one in two or three lifetimes would be remote,” he says. “This is an extremely unique deposit.”

Indonesia has revoked four out of five nickel mining permits in Raja Ampat, one of the country’s most prized diving and snorkelling destinations, following mounting environmental concerns and pressure from local communities. The decision, announced Tuesday by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia after a Cabinet meeting, immediately halts operations by PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, PT Nurham, PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, and PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa. According to Lahadalia, three of the companies had held permits since 2013, while PT Nurham had received approval this year but had not yet begun production. Only PT Gag Nikel will continue operating in the region. Its mine on Gag Island lies about 42 km west of Piyanemo, one of Raja Ampat’s most popular marine tourism spots. Gag Nikel, which holds a 130-square-km concession, produced around 3 million tonnes of nickel in 2024 and is expected to maintain that output through 2026. Despite being spared from the sweeping revocations, Gag Nikel was temporarily ordered to pause activities last week amid protests over mining in the ecologically sensitive region. It remains unclear whether that suspension has been lifted. The clampdown follows a January report by Climate Rights International, which alleged the Indonesian government was allowing environmental degradation and human rights violations by nickel miners, particularly in the eastern Maluku Islands. Raja Ampat, an archipelagic regency in Southwest Papua province, spans nearly 20,000 square km and is home some of the planet’s richest marine biodiversity, including 75% of the world’s coral species and more than 1,600 species of fish. It is a designated UNESCO Global Geopark and includes marine protected zones overseen by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. Indonesia has rapidly expanded its nickel sector to support the global electric vehicle boom, growing from just two smelters a decade ago to 27 today, according to S&P Global Commodity Insights. The country has another 22 smelters in the pipeline. Indonesia now supplies well over half of the world’s nickel output, making it a key player in the battery supply chain.