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21 02, 2025

Natural Gas Price Forecast: Rally Stalls at New Trend High, Retracement Levels Eyed

By |2025-02-21T00:57:12+02:00February 21, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments


50% Retracement of Small Upswing

Today’s bearish pullback following the $4.48 high has almost completed a 50% retracement of an internal upswing. The 50% level is at $4.02 and the low for the day so far was $4.03. Nonetheless, that is a price level measuring a shorter internal upswing while the first retracement level from the full advance is at $3.91. That price level is the convergence of both the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement of the full advance and the 61.8% retracement of the internal upswing. Therefore, baring a breakout to new highs before a pullback, that price level is the first lower target.

Lower Price Levels

Subsequently, the next lower confluence potential support zone is identified from $3.75 to $3.73. It consists of a 78.6% retracement level and a 50% retracement level, respectively. Nonetheless, both the 20-Day MA and 50-Day MAs were recently reclaimed during the recent rise. There has not yet been a test of support around those moving averages other than on one-day.

Therefore, if a deeper pullback occurs, they would be obvious potential targets. Keep in mind that the price levels represented are dynamic. Currently, the 50-Day line is at $3.62 and the 20-Day is at $2.57. Moreover, there is also a minor swing low (begins the internal upswing Fibonacci measurement) and 61.8% Fibonacci retracement at $3.56 and $3.55, respectively.

Bull Continuation Above $4.48

Since the top channel line was successfully tested as resistance today, it may also mark a point of potential resistance in the future. Nonetheless, a decisive breakout above today’s high has natural gas heading towards, $4.56, $4.70/$4.72, followed by a 38.2% Fibonacci retracement for the full downtrend that began from the 2022 high at $10.03.

For a look at all of today’s economic events, check out our economic calendar.



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21 02, 2025

The 7 Best Teapots of 2025, Tested & Reviewed

By |2025-02-21T00:35:04+02:00February 21, 2025|Dietary Supplements News, News|0 Comments


You need the right equipment to brew and serve the perfect cup of tea. In addition to a great electric kettle and stylish mug, the right teapot ensures precise temperature control and a smooth pour, especially when hosting brunch or dinner. When choosing the best teapot, there are many options, including classic ceramic models and clear, modern borosilicate designs.

To help determine which options are worthy of a spot in your kitchen, we tested 11 models from Bodum, CB2, Jono Pandolfi, and more to find the best teapots. Our tests noted temperature consistency, pour spout and infuser design, and heat retention. The result is a list of seven reliable and beautiful teapots that perform just as well as they look.

PHOTO: Amazon

With a modern stainless steel lid and clear body, this teapot makes brewing tea a show. With it, you can watch your water bubble and the brew bloom, thanks to a durable borosilicate glass body suitable for electric and gas stovetops. The ergonomic handle looks delicate but more than supports your pour, with a non-drip spout that makes serving steaming tea safe.

During testing, we were impressed by this teapot’s performance. The body felt durable and thick, with a removable mesh basket that reduced sediment and kept tea leaves separate from the water while infusing. While there are no extra seals on this piece for added heat retention, it still held its temperature well during our testing, dropping from 169°F to 147°F in about 20 minutes. The capacity also offers a great middle ground, allowing you to brew about three generous cups of tea at a time. 

Material: Borosilicate glass | Capacity: 33 ounces | Dimensions: 5 x 5.3 x 9 inches | Includes Infuser: Yes | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Stovetop-Safe: Yes, on low heat

Sweese Teapot Porcelain Tea Pot with Stainless Steel Infuser

PHOTO: Amazon
Pros

  • This charming teapot comes in many shades, like classic white, zesty yellow, or trendy lilac.

Cons

  • While you can use this teapot without the included infuser, the lid does not fit as snuggly on top without it in place, which can cause some spilling.

We recommend this teapot from Sweese for a classic style with several playful color options. Available in 27-ounce and 40-ounce capacities, it has an attractive round body and a roomy handle. It’s made from lead-free porcelain for added durability. The infuser — which features fine mesh for minimal debris — is completely removable, making it easy to clean. 

While testing this teapot, we fell hard for its classic shape and effective design. The porcelain pot retained heat well, dropping 26 degrees in 20 minutes after brewing. We found that the 27-ounce size, which is the one we tested, brewed ample tea for two people, even if someone wanted a second cup. The removable infuser has flexible steel clips that lock it in place and a piece that extends over the handle, allowing you to hold it down while pouring and reducing any risk of splashing or spilling steeped leaves. This great timeless option produced an equally classic cup of tea.   

Material: Porcelain | Capacity: 27 ounces | Dimensions: 6.13 x 7.41 x 5.98 inches | Includes Infuser: Yes | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Stovetop-Safe: No

Degrenne Salam Insulated Teapot

PHOTO: Wayfair

If you have a morning tea ritual ingrained into your daily life, it may be worth splurging on a teapot that will become a mainstay in your home for years. This chic and modern kettle from France-based Degrenne is just the statement piece you’re looking for, with a tailored shape and luxe add-ons (like a felt-lined stainless steel cover) that up its beauty and effectiveness. 

In our search for the best teapot, this stunner quickly rose to the top of the pack thanks to its impressive heat retention and luxurious materials. The tall-sided shape feels more modern than most teapots, and we love that it comes in several chic shades to match any kitchen. Performance-wise, this piece was top-notch, with thick porcelain walls and a fine mesh infuser that nests perfectly atop the lip to keep all leaves from entering the water. There was so much to love about this design, but our favorite feature was undoubtedly the unique felt-lined stainless steel cover that slips over the teapot, locking in the heat for up to an hour.

Material: Porcelain, stainless steel | Capacity: 34 ounces | Dimensions: 11.81 x 7.68 x 9.45 inches | Includes Infuser: Yes | Dishwasher-Safe: No | Stovetop-Safe: No

Hario ChaCha Kyusu Maru Glass Teapot

PHOTO: Amazon
Pros

  • The infuser on this piece is larger than average, making it a great option for green tea, which is sensitive to crowding and over-steeping.

Green tea and matcha lovers know there’s an art to brewing the delicate blend, and this teapot from Japanese brand Hario will help you perfect your technique in no time. With a petite body and roomy infuser, it’s ideal for maintaining the moderate temperatures and delicate ecosystem many green teas prefer to brew properly, all while delivering a minimalist design. We also appreciate the approachable price, which allows you to score a quality pot under $25.  

While testing this teapot, we quickly came to appreciate its more petite size, which holds just enough tea for two people and caters more to the small-batch nature of green tea. The glass body was surprisingly thin but durable, and we enjoyed how easy it made it to clock the exact color of the brew, helping us nail the steeping time for green tea, which is generally quicker than other types (steeping it too long can result in a bitter brew). The spout on this design is much shorter than the others we tested but still resulted in very few drips, and the pointed end allowed for precise pouring.

Material: Borosilicate glass | Capacity: 24 ounces | Dimensions: 5.2 x 6.81 x 4.25 inches | Includes Infuser: Yes | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Stovetop-Safe: No

Suyika Japanese Tetsubin Cast Iron Teapot

PHOTO: Amazon
Cons

  • Similar to cast iron cookware, this piece will require extra maintenance, including handwashing and the removal of rust.

If you’re familiar with cast iron cookware throughout the rest of your kitchen, you know the material can be excellent at conducting and maintaining heat. Cast iron is a great option for lazy tea drinkers who want to be able to return to a warm pot hour after hour. This traditional Japanese cast iron teapot is suitable for use on the stove and off, with a timeless pebbled body and jute-wrapped bamboo handle that lets you easily pour. 

Perhaps the most unique of all the teapots we tested, this piece earned rave reviews for its epic heat retention. The body of this teapot gets and stays exceedingly hot, which is great for any slow sippers or tea fans who enjoy a few cups throughout the morning. That said, you can easily burn yourself on the exterior of this vessel, and the handle is not as prominent or intuitive to hold as other models we tested. Beyond that, this produced a great cup of tea, and we appreciated the convenience of being able to boil and brew all in the same pot. 

Material: Cast iron | Capacity: 22 ounces | Dimensions: 6.3 x 5.1 x 6.7 inches | Includes Infuser: Yes | Dishwasher-Safe: No | Stovetop-Safe: Yes

Crate and Barrel Marin Teapot

PHOTO: Crate and Barrel

On a quest to set a beautiful tabletop for Mother’s Day or Easter brunch? You’ll want to click add to cart on this stunning stoneware teapot from Crate and Barrel ASAP. A stunning showpiece, it’s made in Portugal and designed to complement other stoneware dinnerware with organic lines and a subtle patina that gives it an artisanal vibe. 

In our tests, we noted how hefty and high-quality this piece felt, especially when full. It did a good job keeping the tea warm, dropping an average of 20 degrees in 20 minutes, which was on par with many other options. What this piece lacks in frills (there’s no infuser, plunger, or non-slip bottom), it makes up for in aesthetics — it’s a great option for the occasional tea drinker who tends to sip more while entertaining.

Material: Stoneware | Capacity: 32 ounces | Dimensions: 4 x 6 inches | Includes Infuser: No | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Stovetop-Safe: No

Frank Lloyd Wright Terra Teapot with Infuser

PHOTO: Tea Forte

Gifting a passionate tea lover is no easy task, especially if their kitchen is already stocked with gadgets and gear. Your best bet? Finding them a teapot that is both functional and aesthetically unique. This sienna-colored stoneware teapot from Tea Forte is designed in collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation with a graphic interpretation of the architectural master’s sketches etched into the body. 

Aesthetics aside, this standout piece also performed beautifully in our tests, delivering notable heat retention and an extra-fine infuser in a gleaming gold that looks stunning in person. The size felt perfect for a one- to two-person tea household, and overall, the piece was more compact than others we tested, thanks to its mid-century modern-inspired shape. Snag a matching cup and saucer to make a memorable gift for tea lovers.

Material: Stoneware | Capacity: 20 ounces | Dimensions: 3.1 x 3.1 x 2.5 inches | Includes Infuser: Yes | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Stovetop-Safe: No

Our Favorite Teapot

We tested 11 teapots for this piece, giving our top honors to only seven, including Hiware’s Glass Teapot, Sweese’s Porcelain Teapot, and Degrenne’s Insulated Teapot. While they’re all geared toward slightly different needs, each teapot on our list of winners has superior heat retention, an ergonomic body, and quality materials for an expertly brewed cup of tea. 

How We Tested Teapots

We tested 11 teapots for this piece, which varied in style, size, and material. Each teapot was used repeatedly to make multiple batches of green, black, and herbal tea. The teapots we tested were used and examined extensively and rated in the below categories:

  • Materials: During testing, we noted what material each teapot was made from and how it contributed to its functionality and appearance. Most of the pots on our list were made from porcelain or heat-resistant glass, though some winners incorporated cast iron and stoneware. We also noted whether the material got hot when brewing tea and whether the vessel felt durable. 
  • Capacity: We measured the capacity of each teapot and how much tea we could make with it. In general, we tried to pick teapots that made enough tea for at least two people to enjoy, though our list also includes more family-sized options and teapots with a smaller capacity. 
  • Extra Features: Though simplistic by design, teapots can have additional features that make them stand out from the pack, and we made sure to make note of those throughout our testing. The infuser quality, spout angle, and handle size all fell under this category.
Food & Wine/Megan Passaro

What We Looked For

Material

When selecting the pots for our testing, we looked for vessels made from porcelain, heat-resistant glass, stoneware, or cast iron, all known for their heat resistance. Durability is also important, as is choosing a material that blends aesthetically with the rest of your dinnerware.  

Capacity

As a rule of thumb, you want to shop for a teapot with a capacity of 20 ounces or more, resulting in three 6-ounce cups of tea. Depending on the size of your family (or the amount of tea you drink), you can also opt for a teapot with a larger capacity, which includes many of the picks on our list.

Food & Wine


Cleaning and Care

As with any piece you use daily, learning to clean your teapot effectively is important. Many models are dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean the pot and the included infuser between each batch. Others — including those made from off-beat materials, like cast iron — require hand washing, which can add a step to your already packed morning routine. 

Infuser 

Almost all the teapots on our best list come with a tea infuser (an integrated mesh basket to hold loose tea and allow it to steep in the water without adding debris). When shopping for a teapot, examine the infuser to ensure the holes are small enough to be effective and that it nests seamlessly into the pot without making it difficult to pour.  

Food & Wine


Pour Spout

When shopping for the best teapot for your needs, pay close attention to the length and pitch of the pour spout, which can influence whether or not the vessel drips or leaks each time you pour a cup. The spout should be angled properly to allow easy pouring without tilting the teapot too much, with a slight curve or lip at the end that prevents tea from dripping after pouring.

Food & Wine


Other Teapots We Tested

While the seven teapots that earned a spot on our list were the best of the best, we still found several strong contenders throughout testing. These vessels are still great options for your kitchen, falling short in just one or two testing categories that prevented them from making our final list. Here’s what stood out — and where they could have done better:

Bodum Assam Tea Press with Stainless Steel Filter ($32 at Amazon)

A trusted name in drinkware, Bodum is known for its borosilicate glass kettles and French presses, including one that was named to our list of the best French presses. While we loved the appearance of this teapot aesthetically, we had a difficult time using the infuser and plunger, which caused a lot of excess tea debris to make its way into the water. The teapot did retain heat well, but you couldn’t put the lid back on the pot if you weren’t using the infuser, which caused us to dock it a few points. 

Food & Wine


Ichendorf Milano Piuma Teapot ($95 at Hawkins NY)

Perhaps the most aesthetically pleasing design we tested, this Ichendorf Milano teapot won rave reviews for its charming pink glass design and modern appeal. However, it was the least heat-retentive model we tried, and the included infuser let a decent amount of debris through. At $95, it was also one of the priciest picks on our roster, and other options delivered more at a lower price.

Food & Wine


Jono Pandolfi Teapot ($231 at Jono Pandolfi)

We love Jono Pandolfi — we even named their dishware to our list of the best stoneware dinnerware sets. It should come as no surprise then that the brand’s teapot is outstanding aesthetically, with a dark clay exterior that gives it a rustic, vintage vibe. Unfortunately, the model didn’t retain heat as well as other teapots on our list and came without an included infuser. It lost points for convenience. 

Food & Wine


Primula Half-Moon Teapot ($15 at Amazon)

With a retro-inspired exterior, this teapot could have come straight from the counter at a local diner. The large design holds 40 ounces of tea, making it a great option for larger families or group settings. That said, we didn’t love the plastic featured on the body, and the spout frequently dripped when we tried to pour our tea.

Food & Wine


Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do you use a teapot?

    Unlike a kettle, which can be placed directly on the stove to bring water to a boiling temperature, teapots are typically not stovetop-safe. Instead, they’re used to infuse or steep tea and serve it. To use a teapot, place your desired tea leaves into the infuser, then pour hot water from a kettle into the teapot, allowing the tea blend to steep for your desired amount of time before serving.

  • Can you use a teapot on the stove?

    As a general rule of thumb, most teapots cannot be used on the stove and should only be used to steep and serve tea. Some versions are stovetop-safe, including the cast iron design on our list. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions before placing your teapot on a gas or electric range or in the microwave.

  • What’s the best way to clean a teapot?

    The best way to clean your teapot depends on the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on the material the pot is made from, that may mean hand washing the vessel or using a dishwasher to clean it thoroughly. Always rinse your pot well to avoid residue or a residual soap flavor in your tea.

  • What’s the ideal temperature for brewing different types of tea?

    Teas are surprisingly individual, and many require different brewing temperatures or steeping times to taste their best. Black tea, chai, and herbal teas are best brewed between 200 and 212°F as they need higher temperatures to unlock their flavor and aroma. More delicate teas, like green and white tea, are better brewed at a lower level, closer to 180°F, to accent the subtle floral flavors and prevent any bitterness.

Our Expertise

Alyssa Longobucco is a writer, editor, and stylist with expertise in kitchen product reviews and interior design. She has over a decade of experience in the digital and magazine industry, creating unique and innovative content for storied brands such as Food & Wine, House Beautiful, Food52, Good Housekeeping, and more.



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21 02, 2025

This AI Agent Token Gaining Traction As Polygon Struggles At $0.3

By |2025-02-21T00:33:03+02:00February 21, 2025|Crypto News, News|0 Comments

MATIC price remains under pressure, hovering around the $0.3 mark as broader market uncertainty continues to weigh on Polygon (MATIC).

Despite efforts to regain momentum, Polygon’s native token struggles to break key resistance levels, raising concerns about its short-term trajectory. Meanwhile, an emerging AI Agent Token, FloppyPepe (FPPE), is capturing market attention, signaling a potential shift in investor interest.


This publication is sponsored. CryptoDnes does not endorse and is not responsible for the content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products or other materials on this page.


MATIC Price Struggles To Gain Ground

The MATIC price has been unable to sustain upward momentum, facing stiff resistance around $0.32. Polygon has remained trapped in a consolidation phase, reflecting ongoing selling pressure and a lack of strong buying interest. With trading volumes stagnating and overall market sentiment cautious, the MATIC price faces an uncertain path forward.

Technical indicators suggest that the MATIC price could see further downside if it fails to hold above the critical $0.30 support level. A break below this threshold could lead to a retest of lower levels, with analysts eyeing potential declines toward $0.28 or lower for the MATIC price. On the upside, a decisive move above $0.35 could spark renewed bullish momentum, but current conditions indicate that such a breakout remains elusive.

Polygon’s struggles come amid broader concerns about network activity and adoption. While the blockchain continues innovating with its MATIC transition under the Polygon 2.0 upgrade, investors remain cautious. This transition’s uncertainty has contributed to Polygon’s price stagnation, leaving traders searching for alternative opportunities.

FloppyPepe (FPPE): The AI Agent Token Gaining Momentum

The surge in AI-driven crypto projects has fueled investor interest in tokens that integrate artificial intelligence with decentralized applications, and FloppyPepe (FPPE) is emerging as a standout contender.

The AI agent FloppyPepe (FPPE) distinguishes itself with unique AI-powered utilities. Its AI video agent, Floppy X, enables users to create and monetize video content using simple prompts. Built on an intelligent video AI bot framework, it is designed to use text-based interactions to generate videos using tools like automated video pipeline and character consistency.

It also provides real-time reactions, self-aware characters with depth and unique personalities, handles discussions, sentiment analysis, and more. FloppyPepe (FPPE) additionally has an AI text-to-image generator meme-o-matic, that allows users to instantly create memes, share, and monetize them. Notably, the text-to-image feature is set to go live on Telegram in just two weeks, further expanding its usability.

What sets FloppyPepe (FPPE) apart is its deflationary model, a rarity among many tokens that struggle with supply issues and long-term relevance. With 1% of every transaction burned, the AI agent token’s total supply steadily decreases, fuelling scarcity and, in turn, driving up its value over time. Another 3% of every transaction is redistributed to existing holders, encouraging long-term investment.

The AI agent token has additionally successfully passed a rigorous audit by SolidProof, a leading blockchain security firm. This guarantees that investors can engage with confidence and shows that security is a priority to FloppyPepe (FPPE).

Join The Bandwagon, Invest In FloppyPepe (FPPE) Today

As the MATIC price continues to struggle within the Polygon ecosystem, FloppyPePe (FPPE) is carving out a strong position in the rapidly growing $27.4 billion AI crypto industry. With its cutting-edge AI video agent and inventive features, this AI agent token offers investors real utility, long-term value, and a range of benefits, including referral bonuses, governance participation, and exclusive access to premium tools.

The demand for this AI agent token is evident, as its private presale sold out in just 24 hours, raising an impressive $907,200. Currently priced at $0.0000002, analysts predict substantial growth, positioning the AI agent token as a unique investment opportunity that blends real-world impact, entertainment, and decentralized finance.

As AI-driven projects gain momentum, FloppyPepe (FPPE) is proving to be a standout contender, attracting both traders and long-term holders looking for the next big opportunity in crypto.

Join the FloppyPepe (FPPE) presale and community: 

Website: https://floppypepe.io/

Telegram: https://t.me/floppypepeoffcial

X (Twitter): https://x.com/floppypepe

Instagram: Instagram.com/floppypepe

Tiktok: tiktok.com/floppypepe


This publication is sponsored. CryptoDnes does not endorse and is not responsible for the content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products or other materials on this page. Readers should do their own research before taking any action related to cryptocurrencies. CryptoDnes shall not be liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned.



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20 02, 2025

Overview of Flare Networks DeFi Ecosystem by IntoTheBlock | Flash News Detail

By |2025-02-20T23:06:10+02:00February 20, 2025|News, NFT News|0 Comments


On February 20, 2025, IntoTheBlock provided an overview of the Flare Networks DeFi ecosystem, highlighting key metrics and trends (source: IntoTheBlock X post, February 20, 2025). Flare Networks (FLR) experienced a notable price increase, rising from $0.035 to $0.042 within a 24-hour period ending at 14:00 UTC on February 20, 2025, according to data from CoinGecko (source: CoinGecko, February 20, 2025). This surge was accompanied by a significant trading volume of $12.5 million over the same timeframe, a 45% increase from the previous day’s volume of $8.6 million (source: CoinMarketCap, February 20, 2025). The ecosystem’s total value locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols also saw a 10% rise, reaching $75 million as of 12:00 UTC on February 20, 2025 (source: DefiLlama, February 20, 2025). This data suggests a growing interest and confidence in the Flare Networks ecosystem among traders and investors.

The trading implications of these developments are multifaceted. The price surge of FLR from $0.035 to $0.042 within 24 hours indicates strong buying pressure, which could be attributed to positive sentiment around the DeFi ecosystem’s growth (source: CoinGecko, February 20, 2025). The increase in trading volume from $8.6 million to $12.5 million further supports this bullish sentiment, as higher volumes typically suggest increased market participation and liquidity (source: CoinMarketCap, February 20, 2025). Additionally, the rise in TVL to $75 million signifies that more capital is being deployed into Flare’s DeFi protocols, which could attract further investment and potentially drive the price even higher (source: DefiLlama, February 20, 2025). Traders might consider entering long positions on FLR, especially if the upward trend continues, but should also monitor for potential resistance levels around $0.045, as indicated by recent price action (source: TradingView, February 20, 2025).

Technical indicators provide further insight into FLR’s market dynamics. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for FLR was at 68 as of 14:00 UTC on February 20, 2025, indicating that the asset is approaching overbought territory, which could signal a potential pullback if the RSI exceeds 70 (source: TradingView, February 20, 2025). The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) showed a bullish crossover on February 19, 2025, with the MACD line crossing above the signal line, suggesting continued upward momentum (source: TradingView, February 20, 2025). On-chain metrics also reveal that the number of active addresses on the Flare network increased by 15% over the past week, reaching 22,000 as of 10:00 UTC on February 20, 2025, indicating growing network activity and user engagement (source: IntoTheBlock, February 20, 2025). These indicators collectively suggest a strong bullish case for FLR, but traders should remain cautious and monitor for any signs of reversal.

In the context of AI-related news, there have been no direct developments impacting AI tokens on this specific date. However, the broader crypto market sentiment often correlates with AI developments, and traders should keep an eye on any AI-related announcements or advancements. For instance, if a major AI company were to announce a partnership with a blockchain project, it could positively influence AI-related tokens like SingularityNET (AGIX) or Fetch.AI (FET). As of February 20, 2025, AGIX and FET were trading at $0.45 and $0.60 respectively, with trading volumes of $3.2 million and $4.8 million over the past 24 hours (source: CoinGecko, February 20, 2025). Monitoring these tokens’ performance in relation to AI news could provide valuable trading opportunities, especially if there is a noticeable increase in trading volume following AI-related announcements.

In summary, the recent developments in the Flare Networks DeFi ecosystem, coupled with technical indicators and on-chain metrics, suggest a strong bullish trend for FLR. Traders should consider these factors when making trading decisions, while also keeping an eye on broader market sentiment influenced by AI developments.



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20 02, 2025

XAU/USD poised to challenge record highs

By |2025-02-20T22:56:28+02:00February 20, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments


XAU/USD Current price: $2,943.03

  • Concerns about the potential effects of US tariffs on the global economy hit financial markets.
  • S&P Global will release the preliminary estimates for the February PMIs on Friday.
  • XAU/USD keeps finding buyers on dips, higher highs likely before the week is over.

Spot Gold traded as high as $2,955.18 a troy ounce on Thursday, a fresh all-time high. The bright metal kept rallying despite a dismal market mood as market players weighed in on the potential negative effects of United States (US) tariffs on the global economy.                 

XAU/USD retreated early in the American session as the dismal mood temporarily boosted demand for the US Dollar (USD), yet persistent fears and a free-fall in Wall Street limited the slide. The pair currently trades around $2,940, retaining its overall positive tone.

Fears rotate around US President Donald Trump’s plans for massive tariffs. Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on automobiles, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals shipped to the US as early as April 2. He also noted that tariffs could go higher throughout the year.

Concerns intensified after the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) released the Minutes of the January meeting, which showed officials are worried about the potential effects of tariffs on the economy.

The focus shifts now to the Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB) and S&P Global preliminary estimates of the February Purchasing Managers’ Indexes (PMIs) for most major economies. The PMI reports are a measure of local economic health. The US will also release the final estimate of the January Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index, while a couple of Federal Reserve (Fed) speakers will hit the wires.

XAU/USD short-term technical outlook

Technically, the daily chart for the XAU/USD pair shows it keeps posting higher highs and higher lows, which is in line with the dominant bullish trend. Technical indicators, in the meantime, remain within overbought levels, lacking clear directional strength yet heading north, suggesting buying pressure is still strong. Finally, the same chart shows Gold develops above all its moving averages, with the 20 Simple Moving Average (SMA) heading firmly north, roughly $100 below the current level.

In the near term, and according to the 4-hour chart, XAU/USD is poised to extend its advance. The pair met intraday buyers at around a bullish 20 SMA, while the 100 and 200 SMAs head firmly north far below the shorter one. Technical indicators, in the meantime, resumed their advances after correcting overbought conditions, supporting higher highs ahead.

Support levels: 2,924.10 2,913.05 2,909.60  

Resistance levels: 2,960.00 2,975.00 2,990.00



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20 02, 2025

GBP/USD Forecast: Pound Sterling Buoyed on Possible China Trade Deal

By |2025-02-20T22:39:00+02:00February 20, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments

February 20, 2025 – Written by Ben Hughes

The Pound Sterling trended higher versus the US Dollar on Thursday morning as investors weighed fresh comments from US President Donald Trump regarding a potential trade agreement with China.

At the time of writing, the Pound to Dollar exchange rate (GBP/USD) was trading at approximately $1.2614, up around 0.2% from Thursday’s opening levels.

The US Dollar (USD) weakened on Thursday after President Trump suggested the possibility of reaching a new trade deal with China.

Speaking late Wednesday, Trump indicated that a new trade agreement with Beijing is ‘possible’ and hinted at a potential visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss a deal.

This follows speculation in US media that Trump is aiming to secure a more expansive trade pact with China, fueling optimism that tensions between the two economic superpowers could ease.

However, limiting losses for the US Dollar were Trump’s continued threats to impose 25% tariffs on key imports, including vehicles, semiconductor chips, and pharmaceuticals.

Further cushioning USD’s downside was the release of minutes from the Federal Reserve’s latest policy meeting, in which officials reaffirmed their cautious stance on rate cuts.

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Despite making gains against the US Dollar, the Pound (GBP) struggled to build momentum against other major currencies.

Concerns over the UK’s economic health kept Sterling’s upside potential in check, particularly after a new report highlighted a significant drop in consumer confidence.

Households appear increasingly wary of rising living costs, with spending expectations falling in response to fears of further price hikes following the government’s latest Budget.

Looking ahead to the end of the week, the Pound-to-Dollar exchange rate could be influenced by upcoming UK economic data.

Friday’s session kicks off with the UK’s retail sales figures, which are expected to show a recovery in consumer spending last month.

This will be followed by the release of the UK’s PMI data, with a stronger-than-expected acceleration in private sector growth likely to support Sterling.

Meanwhile, the latest US S&P PMIs could influence USD movement later in the session. If the February figures mirror the weak performance seen in January, the US Dollar may struggle to regain ground.

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20 02, 2025

Gym boss made almost £1m by selling potentially deadly fat-burning pills from garden shed

By |2025-02-20T22:34:07+02:00February 20, 2025|Dietary Supplements News, News|0 Comments


A gym boss made almost £1m by selling potentially deadly fat-burning pills from his garden shed, a court has been told.

But prosecutors have agreed that Jamie George, who ran what was described as “a significant manufacturing operation” in his garden shed in Falkirk, has just over £30,000 left to be seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

In July 2023, George, now 33, was jailed for three years at Stirling Sheriff Court over the illegal enterprise.

The court heard he had been filling and selling 2,4-dinitrophenol capsules all over the world.

The court was told that dinitrophenol capsules – commonly known as DNP – is a highly toxic industrial chemical, used in the manufacture of explosives, insecticide, and in photographic developing.

A recent trend has seen bodybuilders use it for weight reduction, “fat burning”, and body sculpture, often in the days running up to musclemen and women contests.

On Thursday, depute fiscal Simona Gersheva said it had been agreed between prosecutors and George’s lawyers that the “benefit” he had gained from his illegal activities amounted to £937,635.73.

She said the amount available to be seized was £31,050.31.

Ms Gersheva tendered the court a joint minute agreeing on these figures.

Sheriff Derek Hamiton made a Proceeds of Crime Act confiscation order for the £31,050.31 figure.

James Moncrieff, prosecuting the case in 2023, said at the time that taking DNP put users at “high risk” of kidney failure, liver failure, coma, convulsions, and cardiac arrest.

The court heard that in June 2018, officers from Food Standards Scotland, acting on intelligence, raided George’s then-home in Redding, Falkirk, armed with a warrant.

Mr Moncrieff said: “The floor, walls and contents of the garden shed were all heavily contaminated and stained with a yellow powder.”

They found equipment, including disposable gloves, a capsule filling machine capable of producing 100 pills at a time, 10,000 empty capsule shells, nearly £1,500 in cash, and scores of completed Royal Mail Special Delivery slips.

Investigations showed George had been posting supplies to customers as far afield as Asia, Australia and the USA from Laurieston Post Office in Falkirk, where he was a regular customer, as well as more locally, to fitness fans who met him through his gym or internet chat rooms.

He also advertised online.

He was warned to stop but continued the operation.

He was arrested in October 2018 after a further raid on his home in Denny.

He told police he was aware that DNP was classified as a poison and was not safe for human consumption, and he was aware of the dangers of taking it – including that the lethal dose is not known.

The court was told that Muscle Hut’s accounts showed an annual turnover of £235,000.

Mr Moncrieff said: “A large proportion of that turnover is business related to supplements, and although a proportion of that is DNP, it is unclear how much.”

Another analysis identified the receipt of £50,000 of “suspicious money” over a one-year period, though again, how much of that was from DNP is unclear.

George pleaded guilty to culpable and reckless endangerment of life, by supplying the pills over four years between May 1, 2017, and October 8, 2021, from three properties in Falkirk including his two homes.

He was detained after a major criminal probe involving the Food Standards Scotland (FSS), Police Scotland and Falkirk Council, including a 2021 investigation by undercover police.

When he imposed the 37-month jail term, Sheriff Hamilton said George had continued in his activities after he had been told that the pills could have fatal consequences.

He said: “You were well aware of the dangers of DNP.

“You took no notice of that and continued your trade.

“All the evidence points to your gain being very significant.

“You knew some years ago of the dangers of DNP, but even with that knowledge, you continued to put people’s lives at risk.”  

At least 33 people in the UK – two of them in Scotland – are said to have died after taking dinitrophenol.

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20 02, 2025

Dogecoin Price Prediction: Here’s Dogecoin’s Price When Bitcoin Reaches 10 Trillion Market Cap

By |2025-02-20T22:32:21+02:00February 20, 2025|Crypto News, News|0 Comments

Right now, Dogecoin is trading at $0.2521, and some believe it could pass $1 if Bitcoin brings another domino effect to the market – we’ll check out the details below.

Another project that could get attention is Shiba Galaxy ($SHIBG) with its next-gen Layer-2 infrastructure for building meme coins.

Let’s check out the deets.

Can Dogecoin Hit $1 When Bitcoin Reaches a $10 Trillion Market Cap?

Right now, Dogecoin is trading at around $0.2521, down 4.8% in the last 24 hours. The trading volume over the past day is approximately $1.46 billion.

If Bitcoin’s market cap reaches $10 trillion, what could that mean for DOGE? Right now, Bitcoin’s market cap is around $1.9 trillion, meaning it would need to grow by over 400% to hit that milestone. In this case, its price would be about $504,000 per BTC. If Dogecoin were to follow a similar path, it could rise to around $1.17.

Several factors could influence Dogecoin’s price beyond Bitcoin’s growth. Regulatory changes in the U.S. could create a more favorable environment for crypto, especially with increasing political support for Bitcoin.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s ongoing influence—now in an official government role—keeps fueling speculation around DOGE. His past endorsements have caused some big price surges, and there’s belief that his involvement could push DOGE past $1 and potentially toward $10.

Analyst Eason Y. Zhou supports this view and says that political and economic shifts could push DOGE beyond $1 soon, with a possible climb toward $10 in the near future.

Shiba Galaxy ($SHIBG) – A Layer-2 Blockchain For Building More Powerful Meme Coins

Meme coins have evolved beyond internet jokes—they’re now a significant part of the crypto space, with a combined market cap of $74.19 billion and daily trading volume reaching $7.33 billion.

Shiba Galaxy ($SHIBG) might push the meme coin ecosystem forward with a high-speed, low-cost Layer-2 blockchain tailored specifically for these tokens. It may enable transactions that are significantly faster with near-zero fees, potentially making it easier and more cost-effective for new projects to launch and scale.

The testnet is already handling over 46,000 daily transactions, demonstrating its ability to support high network activity. Unlike many blockchains that slow down and become expensive as usage increases, Shiba Galaxy could maintain speed and affordability.

Cross-chain transfers are often slow and expensive, but Shiba Galaxy could address this with instant, low-cost Ethereum bridging, potentially making interoperability more seamless and accessible.

Additionally, the project may introduce a decentralized exchange (DEX) built specifically for meme coins. This could provide a dedicated trading hub, free from the high fees and congestion seen on broader crypto platforms.

Currently, SHIBG is available on Uniswap and has been listed on DexScreener. As awareness grows, the project may gain further recognition.

To support development within its ecosystem, Shiba Galaxy offers grants to meme coin and DApp developers, for better innovation and expansion. Its smart contracts have successfully passed audits by Solidproof and Coinsult, reinforcing the platform’s security and reliability.

Unlike centralized projects where a select few control decision-making, Shiba Galaxy could give users a voice in governance, allowing them to help shape its future.

With its focus on speed, cost-efficiency, and ecosystem growth, Shiba Galaxy may be well-positioned to attract attention in the coming weeks. It has the potential to provide the infrastructure needed to push meme coins to new heights.

Final Thoughts

If Bitcoin keeps growing, Dogecoin could have a shot at hitting $1 or more—especially with regulatory changes and Elon Musk’s influence in play. But its future still depends on market trends and investor interest.

At the same time, Shiba Galaxy ($SHIBG) might bring something new to meme coins with Layer-2 tech for faster, cheaper transactions.

——-

Please keep in mind that this article is not financial advice. All crypto tokens are volatile, and trading involves risk. Always do your own research and consult a qualified expert before joining any crypto venture. Mention of any tokens in this article does not guarantee future performance. Statements regarding the future carry risks and are not assured to be updated.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored press release. Please do your research before buying any cryptocurrency or investing in any projects. Read the full disclosure here.

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20 02, 2025

Bitcoin NFTs Are So Back – Here’s Today’s Five Top Selling NFTs

By |2025-02-20T21:05:11+02:00February 20, 2025|News, NFT News|0 Comments


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Bitcoin-based non-fungible token collections are clawing their way back into the spotlight after fading in the past several months. The Bitcoin non-fungible token market went down last year after the initial hype that led to its resurgence went out. Earlier this week, Bitcoin regained its market dominance, becoming the second most traded blockchain network in the NFT market.

Data compiled by Cryptoslam.io, an on-chain crypto market data aggregator and a non-fungible token market explorer, shows that the Bitcoin NFT market has significantly surged this week. In the past 24 hours, the Bitcoin-based NFT collections have amassed a trading sales volume of $3.1 million. During this period, Bitcoin ranks second, closely following Ethereum, which has a trading sales volume of $4.7 million.

On the other hand, the Ethereum-based networks Mythos Chain and Base rank third and fourth most-traded blockchain networks in the NFT market. In the past 24 hours, Mythos Chain-based NFT collections have raised a trading sales volume of $2.1 million and $2 million. During this time, Ethereum, Bitcoin and Mythos Chain NFT sales volume are down by 61%,15% and 1.54%, respectively. Below, we have listed some of the top-selling NFTs on the Bitcoin NFT blockchain:

1.$P? BRC-20 NFT Collection

$P?, a non-fungible token collection created on the Bitcoin blockchain network using the BRC-20 protocol, is today’s top-selling non-fungible token collection in the Bitcoin NFT market. In the past 24 hours, the $P? BRC-20 NFT collection has raised a trading sales volume of $715,654. During this period, the $P? BRC-20 NFT trading sales volume has surged by over 1,000% from the past day.

2. Ordinal Maxi Biz

Ordinal Maxi Biz (OMB), a non-fungible token collection featuring a limited edition of 5,141 Profile Picture (PFP) images inscribed on the Bitcoin blockchain network, is today’s second most-selling NFT collection in the Bitcoin NFT market. In the past 24 hours, the Ordinal Maxi Bic NFT collection has recorded a trading sales volume of $393,049. The OMB NFT trading sales volume has surged by 23% from the past day.

Bitcoin NFTs Are So Back – Here’s Today’s Five Top Selling NFTs

3.$?? BRC-20 NFT Collection

$??, another non-fungible token collection created on the Bitcoin blockchain network using the popular BRC-20 protocol, is today’s third top-selling non-fungible token collection in the Bitcoin NFT market. In the past 24 hours, the $?? BRC-20 NFT collection has recorded a trading sales volume of $291,699. During this period, the $?? BRC-20 NFT trading sales volume has plunged by 65% from the past day.

4. Quantum Cats NFT Collection

Quantum Cats, a non-fungible token collection featuring a limited edition of 3,333 NFTs created on the Bitcoin blockchain network using the Satoshi Nakamoto ordinal protocol, is today’s fourth most-traded non-fungible token collection in the Bitcoin NFT market. In the past 24 hours, the Quantum Cats NFT collection has amassed a trading sales volume of $260,144. The Quantum Cats NFT sales volume is down 2.26% from the past day.

5.NodeMonkes NFT Collection

NodeMonkes, one of the largest non-fungible token collections featuring a limited edition of 10,000 NFTs created on the Bitcoin blockchain network using the ordinal protocol, is today’s fifth most-selling NFT collection in the Bitcoin NFT market. In the past 24 hours, the NFT collection has recorded a trading sales volume of $194,849, up by 74% from the past day.

Related NFT News:

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20 02, 2025

200-Day EMA Caps Gains (Chart)

By |2025-02-20T20:38:10+02:00February 20, 2025|Forex News, News|0 Comments

(MENAFN– Daily Forex)

  • The US dollar has drifted a little bit lower during the trading session on Wednesday as we continue to see a lot of noisy behavior.
  • It’s worth noting that the 200 Day EMA has offered resistance, and now it looks like we are going to continue to see this area as being important.
  • The pullback in the USD/JPY pair goes right along with the last couple of weeks, as the bank of Japan is more worried about inflation than they had been previously.

Technical AnalysisTop Forex Brokers1 Get Started 74% of retail CFD accounts lose money I believe that the technical analysis for this market is likely to continue to show signs of hesitation for momentum to the upside, but I don’t necessarily think it’s ready to break down significantly from here. The ¥150 level underneath is a major support level, and as long as we can stay above there, then I think you have a reasonable chance for the US dollar to pick up momentum, as the interest rate differential between the 2 currencies is fairly wide. Even if the Bank of Japan were to raise rates by 25 basis points, the reality is that you still get paid to hang on to this pair, and it is probably only a matter of time before the market starts focusing on that again.Nonetheless, this is a market that hasn’t shown itself to be reliably bullish yet, and I need we need to get the market to close above the ¥152.50 level, and therefore if we take off above there, then the market could go looking to the 50 Day EMA, and then perhaps the ¥155 level after that. Anything above there would have the Japanese yen being eviscerated by the US dollar.EURUSD Chart by TradingViewUltimately, this is a market that I think continues to be very noisy, and choppy to say the least. However, I will keep an eye on that ¥150 level, as it is a large, round, psychologically significant figure, and an area that’s been both support and resistance, so therefore I think you’ve got a situation where noise and back and forth continues to be the case.Want to trade our USD/JPY forex analysis and predictions ? Here’s a list of forex brokers in Japan to check out.

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