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18 12, 2025

Brent Near $60 as Venezuela Blockade and Russia Sanctions Risks Collide With 2026 Oversupply Forecasts

By |2025-12-18T18:45:31+02:00December 18, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments


Oil prices are inching higher today, but the rally is tentative — more a geopolitical “risk premium” flicker than a full-blown trend reversal. In early Thursday trading on December 18, 2025Brent crude hovered around $60 a barrel while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) traded in the mid-$56s, as markets weighed fresh supply-disruption risks tied to Venezuela and Russia against a stubbornly bearish backdrop of swelling inventories and forecasts for a well-supplied 2026.  [1]

Oil price today: where Brent and WTI are trading

By mid-morning in Europe, Brent was up about half a percent near $60 per barrel and WTI was up roughly two-thirds of a percent around $56.32, according to Reuters pricing at 09:10 GMT[2]

Other early snapshots told the same story: modest gains, volatile intraday action, and plenty of skepticism that the bounce can last without a meaningful change in supply-demand fundamentals.  [3]

What’s moving oil markets today

1) The Venezuela tanker “blockade” is back in focus

The biggest headline driver is Washington’s escalating pressure campaign on Venezuela’s oil exports. Reuters reports that President Donald Trump ordered a “total and complete blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, a move that immediately raised questions about enforcement, legality, and the real-world impact on barrels reaching the market.  [4]

Why traders care: even if Venezuela is not a massive swing supplier, disruptions can matter when the market is already anxious about sanctions compliance and shipping constraints.

Key details shaping the price reaction:

  • Reuters and ING estimate the measures could put around 600,000 barrels per day of Venezuelan exports at risk (with a meaningful share typically heading to China).  [5]
  • ING also notes that flows to the U.S. (around 160,000 bpd) could be more insulated because they are linked to Chevron-authorized liftings[6]
  • The Washington Post reports more than 30 sanctioned tankers in the region could be affected immediately, underscoring why shipping markets are suddenly part of the oil price conversation again.  [7]

Even so, the market’s response has been restrained — largely because traders are still asking the same two questions: How enforceable is it, and how long does it last?  [8]

2) Russia sanctions risk is rising again

Alongside Venezuela, traders are weighing the possibility of tighter restrictions on Russia’s energy sector. Reuters reports that Bloomberg cited sources saying the U.S. is preparing another round of Russia-related energy sanctions if Moscow does not agree to a Ukraine peace deal — although Reuters also notes a White House official said Trump had not made decisions on Russian sanctions.  [9]

ING’s take is blunt: with Brent trading around $60 and a broader surplus outlook, Washington potentially has more room to turn the sanctions “dial” upward than it would in a tight market.  [10]

3) A cyber disruption and export uncertainty add to the supply noise

Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA has also been dealing with operational turbulence. Reuters reported that PDVSA resumed loading after disruptions tied to a cyberattack, but that many Venezuelan exports were still on hold even as loading restarted — another factor encouraging short-term supply caution.  [11]

Why oil is still struggling despite headline geopolitical risk

Today’s lift comes after crude flirted with multi-year lows earlier this week. Reuters reported that WTI settled at $55.27 on Tuesday, the lowest close since February 2021, before rebounding as Venezuela headlines hit.  [12]

The reason the rally is capped is simple: the macro narrative remains dominated by oversupply expectations and uneven demand growth.

Investing.com notes that despite Thursday’s gains, oil has still been tracking toward weekly losses and that 2025 has been a bruising year: WTI down about 21% year-to-date and Brent down just under 20%, reflecting how persistent surplus fears have been.  [13]

The inventory signal: crude down, fuels up

A key “reality check” for oil bulls this week has been U.S. stockpile data.

Reuters reported that U.S. crude inventories fell by about 1.3 million barrels to 424.4 million barrels in the week ending December 12, but gasoline and distillate inventories rose more than expected — a combination that can mute crude rallies because it hints at softer end-demand or seasonal refinery dynamics.  [14]

ING’s daily commodities note adds color: it pegs the crude draw at about 1.27 million barrels, driven largely by stronger exports (with crude exports rising sharply week-over-week), while refined product inventories built meaningfully and refinery runs climbed to the highest levels since early September.  [15]

Translation for traders: crude supply is not the only story. If refined products are building, it can be harder for crude prices to sustain a breakout — even when geopolitical headlines are loud.

Oil price forecast: what major outlooks say for 2026

If today’s price action feels like a tug-of-war, the forecasts explain why.

EIA: Brent seen falling toward $55 in early 2026

In its Short-Term Energy Outlook released in December, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects global inventories to keep rising through 2026 and forecasts Brent averaging about $55 per barrel in Q1 2026, staying near that level through the rest of next year.  [16]

Notably, the EIA also flags two forces that could prevent an outright collapse: OPEC+ production policy and China’s continued inventory builds[17]

IEA: surpluses and swelling “oil on water” keep pressure on prices

The International Energy Agency’s December 2025 Oil Market Report sketches a market where supply growth still outpaces demand growth.

Among the most market-moving signals in the IEA update:

  • Demand growth is projected at 830 kb/d in 2025 and 860 kb/d in 2026[18]
  • The agency describes an implied average surplus and highlights how crude “on water” has surged — a sign of logistical overhang and rerouted trade flows.  [19]
  • It also notes that observed global inventories rose sharply through the year, with a substantial build from January through November.  [20]

The big message: even if sanctions tighten around the edges, the market is still wrestling with abundance.

Reuters poll: 2026 pricing expectations cluster around low-$60s Brent

A Reuters poll of analysts and economists published in late November projected Brent averaging $62.23 per barrel in 2026 and WTI averaging $59.00, while estimating the potential 2026 surplus across a wide range (from roughly 0.5 to 4.2 million bpd).  [21]

Crucially, the same poll emphasized the idea that geopolitics may keep a “floor” under prices — not because balances are tight, but because disruptions and enforcement risks can reprice quickly.  [22]

The geopolitics premium: how big could it get?

Here’s the tension in today’s market:

  • In a structurally oversupplied world, oil often needs a shock to rally.
  • But when that shock is political, traders also discount it until enforcement becomes visible.

Reuters quoted a former U.S. State Department energy diplomat suggesting that if Venezuelan exports are materially curtailed and not replaced by spare capacity, the impact could be several dollars per barrel (on the order of $5 to $8).  [23]

At the same time, Reuters also cited analysts who argue that U.S. actions may add short-term noise without materially tightening global balances unless the disruption persists or widens.  [24]

What to watch next

For readers tracking oil price today and where crude goes next, the near-term roadmap is clear:

  • Enforcement signals: Are sanctioned tankers actually interdicted at scale, and do insurers/shippers step back?  [25]
  • Russia sanctions decisions: Any confirmed tightening around Russia’s energy flows could move prices faster than rhetoric alone.  [26]
  • Inventory trendlines: Crude draws help, but persistent gasoline/distillate builds can cap rallies.  [27]
  • The 2026 surplus debate: EIA and IEA projections keep the “sell rallies” mindset alive unless demand surprises to the upside or supply growth disappoints.  [28]

Bottom line

Oil is higher today — but it’s rising in a market that still believes the bigger story is too much supply chasing modest demand growth. Venezuela and Russia are injecting fresh uncertainty, and that uncertainty can move prices quickly. Yet the latest official outlooks still point toward a 2026 landscape where inventories build and rallies face resistance unless disruptions become concrete and prolonged.  [29]

References

1. www.reuters.com, 2. www.reuters.com, 3. www.investing.com, 4. www.reuters.com, 5. www.reuters.com, 6. www.reuters.com, 7. www.washingtonpost.com, 8. think.ing.com, 9. www.reuters.com, 10. think.ing.com, 11. www.reuters.com, 12. www.reuters.com, 13. www.investing.com, 14. www.reuters.com, 15. think.ing.com, 16. www.eia.gov, 17. www.eia.gov, 18. www.iea.org, 19. www.iea.org, 20. www.iea.org, 21. www.reuters.com, 22. www.reuters.com, 23. www.reuters.com, 24. www.reuters.com, 25. www.reuters.com, 26. www.reuters.com, 27. www.reuters.com, 28. www.eia.gov, 29. www.reuters.com



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18 12, 2025

Volatile Ahead of BoE (Chart)

By |2025-12-18T18:13:31+02:00December 18, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments

  • The British pound traded erratically ahead of the Bank of England decision, with markets focused on forward guidance rather than the expected rate cut.
  • Price action suggests dollar flows remain the primary driver, with GBP showing relative resilience.

The British pound has been all over the place during the session on Wednesday, which is not a surprise considering that we have the Bank of England interest rate decision coming out on Thursday. With that being the case, I think it’s very difficult to get overly aggressive here. But I also recognize that market participants will continue to perhaps extract a little bit of momentum from the idea that although there’s probably going to be a rate cut coming out of London, it will be the statement and the press conference that will drive everything.

After all, people will want to know the forward guidance. It was interesting because the British pound sold pretty early during the day, but as soon as the Americans came on board, they started buying it back up, shorting the US dollar. This has been the pattern for a while, where the US dollar loses strength once the Americans start trading it. Europeans seem to want it, and at this point, I think there isn’t too much to read from this chart.

Key Technical Levels and Market Behavior

Going into the central bank decision, other than people are nervous. The 1.34 level has been like a significant magnet for price. And if we can break above the 1.35 level, then I think we clear resistance and start going much higher. If we turn around and fall from here, then we go looking at the 200-day EMA.

All things being equal, I do think that the British pound probably performs better than many other currencies against the dollar, be it up or down. While England does have an interest rate cut in its short-term future, the reality is that inflation has been a little sticky, so we’ll have to wait and see how that plays out. But this may be very much like about a year and a half ago, when, while the US dollar strengthened and the British pound fell, it didn’t fall as much as other currencies.

And then when the US dollar started weakening, the British pound was a huge winner. With all that being said, I think we see more of that. I think the US dollar will determine where we go next, not necessarily the British pound, but the British pound will outperform others. And therefore, I watch this chart quite closely.

Ready to trade our daily GBP/USD Forex forecast? Here’s some of the best forex broker UK reviews to check out.

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18 12, 2025

Cut the border bottleneck with FD’s VQIP program | Nutritional Outlook

By |2025-12-18T18:04:37+02:00December 18, 2025|Dietary Supplements News, News|0 Comments


As the global food and dietary supplements industry grows, companies are navigating both increased demand and greater regulatory scrutiny. For importers, one of the biggest challenges lies at U.S. entry points, where delays can hold up shipments for days or even weeks—disrupting manufacturing schedules, straining distribution timelines, and creating uncertainty for customers.

To address these issues, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) established the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP). VQIP, created under the Food Safety Modernization Act, provides a more efficient and predictable process for companies with strong food safety systems and compliance records. In practice, this means faster entry of approved food and dietary supplement imports, fewer border delays, and increased confidence in meeting production and distribution targets. Participation in VQIP intends to provide nutrition businesses with efficiency, dependability, and a clear competitive advantage when bringing products to market.

Background: A Shift from Reactive to Proactive.

When FSMA was signed into law in 2011, it marked the most sweeping reform of U.S. food safety laws in more than 70 years. Before FSMA, FDA was largely reactive—responding to contamination events, recalls, or outbreaks once they were already underway. FSMA transformed that model and focused the agency’s efforts on prevention of food safety issues.

Today, a single nutrition bar could contain protein from Europe, vitamins from Asia, and flavors developed in South America, all assembled and packaged in North America. These interconnected supply chains provide tremendous opportunities for innovation while also adding layers of complexity and risk. FSMA was enacted to reflect this reality, giving FDA new tools to monitor imported foods and hold corporations accountable for assuring safety across the supply chain.

Key provisions of FSMA included:

  • Preventive Controls: Requiring companies to implement written food safety plans that identify hazards and outline preventive measures.
  • Foreign Supplier Verification Programs (FSVP): Making importers responsible for verifying that their foreign suppliers meet U.S. safety standards.
  • Third-Party Certification: Creating a framework that allows independent, FDA-accredited bodies to certify foreign facilities.
  • Increased Inspection Authority: Allowing FDA to focus more inspections on facilities or shipments that pose greater risks.

In this same act, FSMA added a new section, 806, VQIP, which allowed FDA to streamline imports for companies that consistently meet the highest safety standards. Section 806(a)(2) of this Act required FDA to issue a guidance document related to participating in VQIP, much of which is described in this article.

Absent VQIP, FDA faced a bottleneck: every shipment had to be treated equally, whether from a well-established, compliant importer or a new operation. VQIP developed a more efficient approach. By identifying “trusted” importers, FDA could focus its resources where they were most needed, while allowing low-risk shipments to move quickly. Importers with strong systems and clean compliance histories can move through the process more quickly, while shipments that require closer scrutiny receive the attention they deserve.

Benefits of Participation: VQIP offers a suite of benefits that directly address common pain points in food and supplement imports.

Shipments move quickly through FDA’s PREDICT system, which reduces bottlenecks at borders.

PREDICT (Predictive Risk-Based Evaluation for Dynamic Import Compliance Targeting) uses advanced analytics to score shipments based on risk. For VQIP-approved foods, FDA configures PREDICT to recognize these shipments and, in most cases, immediately release them without further examination or sampling.

Reliable clearance timelines support better planning for production schedules, product launches, and promotional campaigns.

Improved Supply Chain Efficiency

Fewer delays mean reduced warehousing costs, smoother distribution, and stronger retail relationships.

Priority Laboratory Testing

If FDA sampling is required, VQIP entries receive priority testing in FDA labs, which shortens wait times and accelerates release decisions.

Participants gain access to a dedicated FDA VQIP Importers Help Desk and CBP assistance. The Help Desk supports completion of applications, answers questions, and facilitates review of shipments that don’t receive immediate release.

FDA maintains a publicly available list of approved VQIP importers on its website, enhancing importer visibility and credibility. (Importers may opt out without affecting participation.)

Certification requirements, supplier oversight, and FDA audits ensure high safety standards across the supply chain, supporting consumer confidence.

For food and dietary supplement companies, these advantages translate into more efficient ingredient sourcing, fewer disruptions in manufacturing pipelines, and faster access to the U.S. market. However, there are certain conditions and limitations. Even under VQIP, FDA has the authority to conduct examinations or sampling “for cause” (e.g., suspected health risks), risk-based microbiological sampling, or auditing. Furthermore, expedited treatment is only applicable to foods listed in an approved VQIP application; non-covered imports are not eligible. Finally, if the importer fails to meet the eligibility requirements, FDA reserves the right to suspend any or all of the benefits.

Quality Assurance Program

As FDA guidance highlights, the Quality Assurance Program (QAP) is a key component of VQIP. This document demonstrates that an importer has implemented measures to maintain food safety and security across the supply chain. A strong QAP typically includes:

  • A corporate quality policy statement and clear organizational chart.
  • Policies on food safety and food defense.
  • Employee qualifications and training requirements.
  • Procedures for implementation, review, and improvement.

FDA evaluates each QAP for adequacy and may inspect facilities to ensure its implementation in practice.

Who Can Participate: The VQIP is a voluntary, fee-based program. Participation is limited to companies that can demonstrate compliance with U.S. food safety regulations and strong supplier oversight.

Key eligibility requirements include:

At least three years of experience importing food or dietary supplements into the U.S.

No significant violations, such as import alerts, detentions, debarments, or major recalls.

A valid Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) number for each applicant location and related entity.

Paperless Brokers and Filers

Use of filers or brokers that have acceptable evaluations from FDA.

Foreign Supplier Certification

Suppliers’ facilities must be certified by FDA-accredited third-party certification bodies, ensuring they meet U.S. standards.

Quality Assurance Program (QAP)

A comprehensive written plan describing the importer’s policies for food safety, food defense, organizational responsibilities, employee qualifications, and record keeping.

Applications are submitted online through the FDA Industry Systems portal between January 1 and September 1 each year. FDA may conduct a VQIP inspection to verify eligibility and may request product labels to evaluate for any labeling gaps or deficiencies.

VQIP is a continuous approval process. Importers are required to update their applications anytime something changes, including:

  • Adding or removing suppliers.
  • Updating products or formulations.
  • Changing brokers or filers.
  • Revising food safety policies.

If issues arise, such as supplier violations, noncompliance, or inaccurate information, FDA reserves the right to revoke participation. In many cases, companies can correct deficiencies and regain eligibility. Serious violations, such as fraud, may result in immediate revocation and no reinstatement for the remainder of the fiscal year.

User fees

Each year, FDA sets the user fee for VQIP participation. The user fee for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 is $9,620andmust be paid by October 1 to secure participation in the following fiscal year, as set in the Federal Register, 90 Fed. Reg. 35863.

The fee supports program administration, application review, inspections, and IT systems. While the cost may be significant, especially for smaller companies, many importers view it as an investment in efficiency.

When compared to the costs associated with delayed shipments (such as demurrage fees, warehousing costs, lost sales, or broken retailer commitments), the potential savings can outweigh the annual fee. For large-volume importers, the financial case for participation can be especially compelling.

Conclusion

VQIP provides a pathway to faster, more predictable imports while reinforcing a commitment to high compliance standards. This alignment is particularly valuable in a market where consumers increasingly expect transparency and accountability. A company’s inclusion on FDA’s public list of approved VQIP importers can serve as a visible sign of commitment to both safety and efficiency.



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18 12, 2025

ETH Holds Near $2,940 as ETF Outflows and U.S. Policy Uncertainty Shape the Forecast

By |2025-12-18T17:57:46+02:00December 18, 2025|Crypto News, News|0 Comments

December 18, 2025 — Ethereum’s dollar price (ETH-USD) is trading around $2,941, roughly flat on the session after a notably volatile day that saw ETH swing between an intraday low near $2,793 and a high around $3,024.

That “whipsaw range” tells you almost everything you need to know about the current Ethereum setup: buyers are still defending the psychologically important $2,800 area, but upside momentum keeps running into supply near $3,000+, especially while U.S. spot Ethereum ETF flows remain negative and crypto regulation headlines keep landing like anvils on risk sentiment. [1]

What follows is a roundup of the key Ethereum price news, forecasts, and market analyses published on December 18, 2025, plus a scenario-based ETH-USD forecast built from today’s most-cited support/resistance levels and the day’s major catalysts.


Ethereum price today: the numbers traders are watching

As of the latest market print on Dec. 18, 2025, ETH-USD is near $2,941 with:

  • Intraday high: ~$3,023
  • Intraday low: ~$2,793

The broader context: multiple market updates today framed Ethereum as stuck below $3,000, with analysts describing ETH as stabilizing only because buyers keep stepping in around the high-$2,700s to low-$2,800s. [2]


What moved Ethereum on Dec. 18, 2025? Three catalysts dominated today’s coverage

1) Ethereum ETF outflows: the “slow leak” that keeps capping rebounds

A central theme in today’s reports is that U.S. spot Ethereum ETFs extended a streak of outflows, even as Bitcoin’s ETF complex showed a burst of inflows.

  • FXStreet reported a fifth consecutive day of ETH ETF outflows, with roughly $22 million withdrawn on Wednesday (Dec. 17), while Bitcoin spot ETFs took in about $457 million the same day. [3]
  • Farside Investors’ daily flow table similarly shows ~$22.4M of outflows on Dec. 17 after a far larger ~$224.2M outflow day on Dec. 16. (Dec. 18 was not yet populated at the time the table was captured.) [4]

This matters for ETH-USD forecasting because ETF flows are one of the few “institutional tape” signals that can overpower short-term chart patterns. When ETH ETFs are consistently bleeding while BTC ETFs are gathering inflows, it often expresses itself as relative weakness in ETH vs. BTC and repeated failures to sustain breaks above major round-number resistance (like $3,000). [5]

2) U.S. regulation headlines: Senate delay adds uncertainty into year-end liquidity

Another recurring driver today was Washington risk. An Economic Times market report (dated Dec. 18) tied a broader crypto pullback to the U.S. Senate deferring key crypto legislation until 2026, arguing this extended regulatory uncertainty into the new year. [6]

Even if you don’t treat one headline as destiny, the mechanism is straightforward: in thin year-end liquidity, “rules uncertainty” tends to widen spreads, amplify liquidations, and increase the odds that rallies get sold quickly.

3) Rotation inside crypto: Bitcoin’s bid is firmer than Ethereum’s (for now)

Today’s market read was less “crypto is dead” and more “crypto is rotating.” Several updates described a tape where Bitcoin holds steadier (helped by ETF inflows) while Ethereum and other major alts struggle to regain their footing.

FXStreet explicitly framed the day as Bitcoin attempting to hold above $87,000 while Ethereum “defends support around $2,800” but remains pressured by ETF outflows. [7]


Ethereum network and ecosystem news today: upgrades + “complexity” debates enter the price narrative

Ethereum scaling plans: gas limit expansion (and why markets care)

One widely circulated analysis today focused on upcoming Ethereum scaling work. FX Leaders reported that developers are preparing to raise Ethereum’s gas limit from 60 million to 80 million, a change that could increase throughput and potentially reduce fees—though it also highlighted weakening on-chain engagement and the drag from ETF outflows in the near term. [8]

Whether you’re a fundamentals purist or a chart maximalist, this type of “capacity expansion” story matters because it feeds the long-running ETH valuation debate: is Ethereum’s base layer becoming a more efficient settlement engine, or are users continuing to migrate activity to Layer-2 networks in a way that suppresses fee-driven narratives?

Vitalik Buterin’s “simplify Ethereum” message: trustlessness vs. complexity

A second Ethereum-specific headline theme today: complexity is a risk factor.

A Cointelegraph-sourced report circulated on Dec. 18 quoted Vitalik Buterin arguing that a key (often overlooked) aspect of trustlessness is increasing the number of people who can understand the protocol end-to-end, and that Ethereum should “get better at this” by making the protocol simpler—even if that sometimes means fewer features. [9]

This aligns with Buterin’s broader 2025 writing on simplifying Layer 1 design (including discussions of making Ethereum more “Bitcoin-simple” over a multi‑year horizon). [10]

From a price/forecast perspective, this “simplification” discourse is not a same-day catalyst like an ETF flow print—but it does influence the longer-term institutional story: protocol robustness, auditability, and decentralization are increasingly part of what big allocators claim to care about when they decide whether ETH is a core holding or a trading vehicle.


Ethereum price forecast: key levels and scenarios for ETH-USD

Forecasting crypto is like forecasting a cat’s next decision: it will do something, and it will be emotionally confident about it. So instead of pretending there’s one “correct” ETH-USD forecast, today’s professional-style coverage mostly converged on scenarios driven by support/resistance and flow trends.

The most-cited support and resistance zones (Dec. 18, 2025)

Support

  • $2,800: repeatedly cited as the line bulls are trying to defend. [11]
  • $2,860–$2,900: described as a nearby consolidation/support band in one price analysis. [12]
  • $2,716 and $2,623: flagged by FX Leaders as next downside levels if selling accelerates. [13]

Resistance

  • $3,000: the psychological ceiling; regaining it is framed as the first step toward improving structure. [14]
  • ~$3,050–$3,120: cited as a resistance band that needs reclaiming to reduce immediate downside risk. [15]
  • ~$3,230–$3,440 area (moving averages): FXStreet noted ETH facing downward-sloping moving averages around the low-to-mid $3,000s, reinforcing the bearish medium-term posture until reclaimed. [16]

Scenario 1: Base case (next several sessions) — range trade with a bearish bias

If ETF flows remain negative and macro/regulatory headlines keep risk appetite constrained, the most likely near-term behavior is a choppy range:

  • ETH oscillates between $2,800 support and $3,000 resistance
  • Breakouts above $3,000 struggle unless accompanied by a clear shift in flows [17]

This is essentially what much of today’s “ETH holds steady but can’t recover” framing points to.

Scenario 2: Bullish rebound (1–2 weeks) — reclaim $3,000, then target the low $3,100s

Some shorter-term “price prediction” coverage today leaned rebound-ish, arguing that oversold conditions could fuel a recovery leg.

  • One technical outlook published Dec. 18 suggested a rebound target zone around $3,150–$3,200 within roughly two weeks, despite bearish momentum. [18]
  • Separately, Investing.com’s ETH/USD technical dashboard (timestamped Dec. 18, 02:36PM GMT) showed a “Strong Buy” summary, with multiple moving averages and indicators pointing upward—even while some oscillators read overbought. [19]

For this bullish scenario to look credible on the chart, today’s coverage implies ETH would need to:

  1. hold above $2,800, and
  2. reclaim and keep $3,000, and
  3. begin challenging the mid-$3,000s resistance bands called out in daily analyses. [20]

Scenario 3: Bear case (days to weeks) — lose $2,800 and slide to the mid-$2,600s

If the $2,800 floor fails decisively, multiple analyses point to “air pockets” below:

  • FX Leaders explicitly mapped downside levels near $2,716 and $2,623 if selling intensifies. [21]
  • Some technical commentary (summarized in a Dec. 18 analysis piece) also discussed the risk of deeper drawdowns if key monthly levels break, though such calls typically rely on longer timeframes and are less about a single day’s tape. [22]

A practical takeaway: $2,800 is not just a number today—it’s the narrative anchor. Lose it, and the forecast shifts from “range and rebound attempts” to “find the next durable bid.”


Model-based ETH price predictions today: what they say (and how to treat them)

A lot of “ETH price prediction” content comes from algorithmic models. They’re useful as sentiment signals (what the crowd is being told), but they are not consensus truth.

For example:

  • Changelly’s near-term read pointed to ETH potentially pushing back toward roughly $3,008 by Dec. 20, 2025 (model-driven forecast). [23]
  • CoinCodex projected ETH could be in the low-to-mid $3,000s by late December if the upper targets are reached. [24]

These projections can be directionally interesting, but they often diverge wildly from one another over longer horizons. The higher-quality way to use them in a news-style forecast is simple: compare them to the hard levels ($2,800 / $3,000) and to real flow data (ETF inflows/outflows). [25]


What to watch next (the “ETH-USD forecast” checklist)

  1. U.S. spot Ethereum ETF daily flows
    The Dec. 18 flow print may lag; prior days show persistent outflows that have been a headwind. [26]
  2. $2,800 support and $3,000 resistance
    Today’s analysis stack basically treats these as the two gates controlling the short-term ETH narrative. [27]
  3. Regulatory headlines out of Washington
    With Senate action pushed into 2026 in at least one widely circulated market report, policy uncertainty remains part of the price backdrop into year-end. [28]
  4. Ethereum scaling/roadmap headlines
    Plans like a gas-limit expansion can help the long-term thesis, but markets will keep asking whether usage and activity confirm the story. [29]

Bottom line for Ethereum price today and the forecast

On December 18, 2025, ETH-USD is hovering around $2,940 after a volatile session that reinforced the current regime: $2,800 is the battlefield, $3,000 is the ceiling, and ETF flows are the gravity. [30]

The near-term forecast is best expressed in scenarios:

  • Hold $2,800 and reclaim $3,000 → rebound attempts toward the low $3,100s become plausible. [31]
  • Lose $2,800 decisively → downside targets in the mid-$2,600s appear in multiple technical roadmaps. [32]

If you invest in Ethereum.. HOLD ON!! ETH to skyrocket 🚀📈

References

1. www.fxstreet.com, 2. www.fxstreet.com, 3. www.fxstreet.com, 4. farside.co.uk, 5. www.fxstreet.com, 6. m.economictimes.com, 7. www.fxstreet.com, 8. www.fxleaders.com, 9. openexo.com, 10. vitalik.eth.limo, 11. www.fxstreet.com, 12. bravenewcoin.com, 13. www.fxleaders.com, 14. www.fxstreet.com, 15. www.fxleaders.com, 16. www.fxstreet.com, 17. www.fxstreet.com, 18. blockchain.news, 19. www.investing.com, 20. www.fxstreet.com, 21. www.fxleaders.com, 22. bravenewcoin.com, 23. changelly.com, 24. coincodex.com, 25. farside.co.uk, 26. farside.co.uk, 27. www.fxstreet.com, 28. m.economictimes.com, 29. www.fxleaders.com, 30. www.fxstreet.com, 31. blockchain.news, 32. www.fxleaders.com

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18 12, 2025

Gold (XAUUSD) Price Forecast: CPI Puts Gold Market at Breakout or Pullback Point

By |2025-12-18T16:44:34+02:00December 18, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments


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18 12, 2025

50-Day EMA Supports Bullis (Video)

By |2025-12-18T16:12:31+02:00December 18, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments

  • USD/JPY remains firmly bullish, supported by the 50-day EMA and interest rate differentials favoring the United States.
  • Volatility may arise around the Bank of Japan decision, but dips continue to look like buying opportunities.

The US dollar has risen quite nicely against the Japanese yen during trading here on Wednesday as we continue to see the area just below the 155 yen level offer a bit of a floor. Furthermore, the 50-day EMA sits underneath there as well, offering support. So, really, at this point in time, I think you have a buy on the dip situation. If the market can rally from here, the 157 yen level is an area that I’ll be watching, but let’s also keep in the back of our mind that we have the Bank of Japan interest rate decision on Friday.

Now, while I fully anticipate that the interest rate differential will continue to favor the United States, the reality is that there could be a little bit of volatility around that interest rate decision. So be aware of that. I don’t necessarily think that is a good or bad thing. I think it’s just a thing. So, with this, I remain fairly confident in the overall trend of this market. I think it is probably only a matter of time before it goes higher.

Watching the 50-Day EMA for Trend Continuation

But the question now is, will the 50-day EMA hold? We will probably know midday on Friday whether or not the market has the momentum to continue racing towards 158 yen or if we need to pull back a little further in order to start buying. I have no interest in shorting this pair. Quite frankly, there’s really nothing on this chart that even remotely suggests that you should be doing it. Although you can make an argument, maybe we can consolidate between 154 and 158 over the next several weeks, especially as we go into the holiday season. But beyond that, I don’t really see anything negative here.

Want to trade our USD/JPY forex analysis and predictions? Here’s a list of forex brokers in Japan to check out.

Christopher Lewis has been trading Forex and has over 20 years experience in financial markets. Chris has been a regular contributor to Daily Forex since the early days of the site. He writes about Forex for several online publications, including FX Empire, Investing.com, and his own site, aptly named The Trader Guy. Chris favours technical analysis methods to identify his trades and likes to trade equity indices and commodities as well as Forex. He favours a longer-term trading style, and his trades often last for days or weeks.

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18 12, 2025

The 6 Best Antioxidant-Rich Teas

By |2025-12-18T16:03:32+02:00December 18, 2025|Dietary Supplements News, News|0 Comments


  • Tea can be a major contributor to daily antioxidant intake.
  • Different teas offer different benefits based on how the leaves are processed.
  • Tea is simple to prepare and easy to enjoy hot or cold.

In the mood for an energizing sip, a palate cleanser, a thirst-quenching beverage or a calming escape? Brewing a cup of tea can tick all the boxes. Tea has been enjoyed since ancient times, and it’s one of the most popular beverage in the world. From green tea to white and black teas, variations are plentiful, and you can even mix tea leaves together to craft a new taste experience each time you put on the kettle. 

Each cup of tea is also packed with health benefits. In fact, tea can be a major source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Below, we reveal six of the best antioxidant-rich teas, as recommended by registered dietitians, plus a few ways to enjoy them.

1. Black Tea

Black tea is the most-consumed tea across the globe. It’s the base for beloved beverages like masala chai, Thai tea and boba tea. Black tea, along with green, white and oolong teas, all come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. Each tea undergoes different preparation methods. Black tea, for example, uses leaves which are fully fermented.

“Black tea contains a number of polyphenols including flavonoids, catechins and theaflavins. Because black tea leaves are allowed to oxidize completely, they are especially rich in theaflavins and thearubigins, a type of flavonoid,” says Marie Spano, M.S., RD, CSSD, CSCS

She also points out health benefits of drinking tea, “Observational studies suggest drinking 2 to 3 cups of tea per day is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes, heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.” 

Enjoy black tea hot, iced, or craft up homemade delights like Boba Tea, Thai Iced Tea or Chai Tea. As with all drinks, just be mindful of the amount of sugar you’re adding to the teas you regularly consume. 

2. Green Tea

Green tea takes second place in global tea popularity. It’s touted for its numerous health benefits, ranging from enhanced brain function to reduced blood sugar and gut inflammation. Unlike black tea, green tea is made from unfermented fresh tea leaves.

Green tea is rich in catechins, a type of antioxidant and polyphenol. It boasts a higher concentration of catechins than black or oolong tea. Barbara Ruhs, M.S., RD explains the most prevalent catechin, “Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant polyphenol in green tea that lowers inflammation and is associated with lowering the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders.” She adds that research suggests green tea may combat sun damage, particularly important for those living in sunny regions. However, most of the studies were done with green tea supplements or extracts and more research is needed.

Green tea tastes delicious hot, iced or even added to a smoothie. Try our refreshing Green Tea–Fruit Smoothie for something flavorful and bright. 

3. Hibiscus Tea 

Deliciously tart, hibiscus tea will awaken your taste buds and delight your eyes with its vibrant ruby red color. Hibiscus tea is brewed from the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant. Hibiscus tea has been linked to several health benefits, including improved heart health, diabetes management and potentially aiding weight loss.

Spanos highlights its heart-health benefits: “Hibiscus tea is packed with flavonoids, including anthocyanins and quercetin. Hibiscus tea seems to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.” Research also suggests hibiscus tea may function similarly to blood pressure medication, potentially aiding in lowering blood pressure. Spano adds that hibiscus tea’s anthocyanins may also offer antiviral properties.

Hibiscus tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a delightful beverage to enjoy any time of day, hot or cold.

4. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that falls between green and black tea in both flavor and processing. Because it’s partially fermented, it contains a unique mix of antioxidants found in both green and black teas.

Ruhs expands on oolong tea’s benefits: “The antioxidants in oolong tea have also demonstrated promise as an aid for weight loss and managing blood sugar.” Like black and green tea, oolong tea contains L-theanine. Ruh says, “Oolong tea also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can aid in relaxation, improve sleep, reduce anxiety and stress and boost cognitive performance.” 

Whether you’re in need of relaxation or a boost in brain function, brew up a batch of oolong and enjoy it hot, cold or shaken into one of our mocktail recipes

5. White Tea

White tea is consumed around the world and is most popular in China. Spano explains how it’s made: “White tea is made from immature leaves which are picked, steamed or fired and then dried.” She explains that white tea is minimally oxidized and contains a high amount of catechins, along with flavonoids and theaflavins. 

Some studies suggest white tea contains the highest concentration of antioxidants compared to other teas, and that it also contains less caffeine. Research has also shown promise for white tea’s potential to improve cholesterol and triglycerides levels. However, Spano cautions that most research has been conducted in cell cultures and on animals, and more human studies are needed to clarify these findings.  

Sip on the light, floral taste of white tea hot or cold, or use brewed white tea in place of water when making a pitcher of infused water.

6. Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea tastes naturally sweet and slightly nutty. “Rooibos tea is caffeine-free and made from fermented leaves and stems of a shrub, Aspalathus linearis,” explains Ruhs. She says, “It is widely consumed throughout South Africa.” The main polyphenols in rooibos tea are aspalathin and quercetin. Research has linked aspalathin to potentially lowering blood sugar, and quercetin to anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for blood sugar regulation.

Rooibos tea can be enjoyed plain, or look for tea bags or loose tea with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla, which makes for a delicious calorie-free dessert drink. For a comforting caffeine-free latte, steam your favorite milk and pour it over a cup of brewed rooibos tea. 

Antioxidant Benefits

Antioxidants are compounds found in plant foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, coffee and tea. “[Eating patterns] that contain an array of antioxidant-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, are tied to better health and reduced risk of disease,” says Spano.

Ruhs explains how antioxidants help protect the body against harmful free radicals. She says, “Similar to a Roomba that autonomously vacuums your home and keeps it tidy, antioxidants scavenge materials that can do harm in the body if they accumulate too much.” 

Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced naturally within the body and through exposure to smoke, pollution and UV light. While we can’t control the number of free radicals our bodies produce, aiming to prevent free radicals from accumulating can help reduce the harm they cause in the body.  One strategy is to include more protective antioxidants through food and drink choices. And steeping up a cup of tea is a great way to do it. 

How to Add Tea to Your Day

  • Brew it yourself. Skip the premade tea, which may be high in added sugar, and brew your own. For a touch of sweetness, stir in sliced fruit, a splash of 100% juice or a small spoonful of honey.
  • Make it iced. On hot days, brew a large pot of your favorite tea. Let it cool, then place in the fridge to chill. Enjoy it later on in the day over ice for a refreshing beverage.
  • Watch the add-ins. Love a creamy tea? Be mindful of creams and creamers, which may be high in saturated fat and added sugar. Opt for low-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk to add a dab of creaminess. 

Our Expert Take

Tea is a delicious and easy way to get a hefty dose of health-promoting antioxidants. Enjoy it year-round, hot or cold, or use it to make mocktails or smoothies. Tea is naturally calorie-free, making it a great substitute for sugar-sweetened drinks. Whether you prefer black, white, green, oolong, hibiscus or rooibos, you’ll be sipping your way to better health. So put on the kettle and discover the delicious and antioxidant-rich world of tea.



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18 12, 2025

To Crash to $0.10 as DOGE ETFs Inflows Dry

By |2025-12-18T15:56:49+02:00December 18, 2025|Crypto News, News|0 Comments

Dogecoin price continued its downward trend as headwinds in the crypto market rose and demand for its ETFs plunged. DOGE was trading at a crucial support level at $0.1265, down by nearly 60% from its highest point in September.

DOGE ETF Inflows Have Stalled

The main reason why the Dogecoin price has crashed recently is that sentiment in the crypto industry has waned. A closer look at the sector shows that Bitcoin and most altcoins have been in the red as the Fear and Greed Index remains in the fear zone.

DOGE price has also slumped as demand for its exchange-traded funds remained muted. Data shows that the Grayscale and Bitwise DOGE ETFs have had no inflows since December 11. The last date these funds had inflows was on December 10 when an investor bought ETFs worth $171k.

Therefore, these funds have brought in $2 million in inflows since their inception in November, and they now hold $5.2 million in assets, which is equivalent to 0.03% of the market capitalization.

Grayscale’s GDOG has $3.95 million in assets, while Bitwise’s BWOW has $1.25 million. Therefore, the implication of all this is that these companies may ultimately decide to shutter the funds in the future if they fail to attract enough assets.

GDOG has an expanse ratio of 0.35%, meaning that its annual revenue will be less than $14,000 if the assets remain this low. Similarly, BWOW will make Bitwise less than $5,000 a year, which is not much for a company with billions of dollars in assets  

The ongoing DOGE ETF woes are a sharp contrast to the performance of other altcoin ETFs. For example, the recently launched XRP ETFs have accumulated over $1 billion in inflows, while Solana funds have gained $725 million in inflows.

Dogecoin Price Technical Analysis 

To Crash to alt=
DOGE price chart | Source: TradingView

The daily chart shows that the DOGE price sits at a crucial support level today. It has dropped to $0.1260, a level it has failed to move below several times since April 7 this year.

Dogecoin price has remained below the 50-day and 100-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMA), while the Awesome Oscillator has remained below the zero line since October 9.

Therefore, the most likely DOGE price forecast is bearish as buyers have remained in the sidelines. If this happens, the next key support level to watch will be at the psychological level at $0.10, which is about 20% below the current level.

READ MORE: Top Catalysts for an Altcoin Season in 2026

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18 12, 2025

MNYUSD News Today: Why Moonie NFT USD is Holding Steady

By |2025-12-18T14:48:34+02:00December 18, 2025|News, NFT News|0 Comments


The price of Moonie NFT USD (MNYUSD) has held steady at exactly $2.687992e-06, with no changes in its percentage or volume. Despite a lack of current movement, there are key insights and forecasts that shed light on this cryptocurrency’s status and potential future.

Current Price Stability

MNYUSD has shown remarkable stability with a steady price of $2.687992e-06 and no percentage change in value over recent trading periods. Both the daily high and low are set at this exact price, suggesting a period of low volatility. This lack of movement is mirrored by a zero market cap and no recorded volume, highlighting its extremely niche or inactive market status.

Technical Indicators Overview

A quick glance at the technical indicators shows that MNYUSD is currently in an oversold position. Key indicators such as the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and the Average Directional Index (ADX) are both at 0.00, suggesting minimal momentum and no clear trend direction. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) also shows a neutral position, indicating a balanced phase with no strong buying or selling signals.

Historical Performance and Forecast

Historically, MNYUSD has faced a massive decline, with its yearly to five-year changes showing significant reductions, including a 99.99624% drop since its peak. Looking forward, forecasts are limited, but there is a minor increase anticipated in the seven-year projection, bringing the price to $0.0005484566649282696. Forecasts can change due to macroeconomic shifts, regulations, or unexpected events affecting the crypto market.

Understanding the Market Sentiment

Market sentiment around MNYUSD appears to be static, largely driven by its low activity and trading volume. This absence of movement might attract risk-takers looking for potential undervalued assets. Tools like Meyka AI could help traders explore MNYUSD’s market behavior through AI-powered analysis, offering insights beyond the current stability.

Final Thoughts

MNYUSD stands at a crossroads of stability and uncertainty. While its current inactivity might suggest a dormant phase, long-term forecasts show potential growth. The technical indicators point to an oversold market, which could attract interest if external conditions shift. As always, staying informed through platforms like Meyka AI can provide valuable insights into potential market changes.

FAQs

What is the current price of MNYUSD?

MNYUSD is currently priced at $2.687992e-06 with no recent changes in value or percentage movement reported as of today’s data update on December 18, 2025.

Why is MNYUSD showing no movement?

MNYUSD’s lack of movement is due to its low market activity, with no recorded volume or market cap, indicating minimal trading interest at present. This might change with increased engagement or market shifts.

What are the technical indicators saying about MNYUSD?

Technical indicators like RSI, MACD, and ADX show a neutral to oversold status for MNYUSD, suggesting minimal momentum and no definitive trend direction currently.

How has MNYUSD performed historically?

Historically, MNYUSD has experienced severe declines, with a 99.99624% decrease over five years, reflecting significant long-term challenges in value retention.

Is there a forecasted price increase for MNYUSD?

Yes, there is a modest forecasted increase over the next seven years, with MNYUSD expected to reach $0.0005484566649282696, although these projections can vary with market conditions.

Disclaimer:


Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile. This content is for informational purposes only.
The Forecast Prediction Model is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.
Meyka AI PTY LTD provides market data and sentiment analysis, not financial advice.
Always do your own research and consider consulting a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions.



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18 12, 2025

Forecast update for EURUSD -18-12-2025.

By |2025-12-18T14:43:36+02:00December 18, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments


Natural gas price attempted to resist the negative pressures by ending the negative trading after testing the bullish channel’s support to $3.880, forming a positive rebound by its stability near $4.080.

 

We couldn’t confirm regaining the bullish attempts unless breaching the barrier at $4.200 and providing positive close above it, therefore, we expect providing mixed trading and there is a chance for providing new pressures on the main support, while breaching the barrier and holding above will provide strong chance to begin achieving several gains, to expect its rally initially towards $4.510.

 

The expected trading range for today is between $3.900 and $4.200

 

Trend forecast: Bearish





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