Let’s face it, the holiday season always delivers a contradictory blend of magic, wonder and overwhelm, and a pair of slipper socks may not take the edge off your laundry list of to-dos.
Finding time to relax and recalibrate before the decorations are packed away may seem impossible, but the better you treat yourself, the more you can inhale happiness and exhale burnout.
We’ve created a list (and checked it twice) of 12 ways to practice self-care during the holiday countdown. From mini indulgences to healing experiences, prioritizing self-care every day, no matter how small, will keep you present and balanced and help you manage festivity overload.
Holiday hosting, baking and gifting are times to connect with friends and family and create meaningful memories. But all that doing in such a short period of time can have us running close to E on energy.
A session with a Reiki practitioner or using a sound healing app can help clear emotional blocks, alleviate stress and fill your tank.
Some people feel a sense of accomplishment checking off tasks in a planner, but for others it can cause anxiety, especially when your day doesn’t fit into neat little boxes.
Instead, mindfulness and manifesting journals focus on the big picture and are designed to help you reflect on your goals and overall well-being. Light a candle, pick up your favorite pen and set your dreams in motion.
There’s shopping, and then there’s holiday shopping. If the lines, parking and sheer exhaustion of finding the right gifts is weighing you down, the last thing you want to do is try on clothes in a dressing room.
What would it be like to have a stylist dress you during the holiday season? If this sounds like a dream but out of your price range, we have good news. Online personal styling services like Stitch Fix take the guesswork out of holiday dressing, have no fees and don’t require a subscription.
We know that ample, quality sleep is essential for our physical, mental and emotional well-being. Since the holiday season never seems to slow down, making sure you’re sleeping soundly and deeply will help you feel refreshed the next day, no matter how many errands are on your calendar.
Sleeping in total darkness, disconnecting from digital devices and feeling comfortable in bed can help you reach your sleep goals.
Are your toiletry bags in need of a makeover? If you’re traveling for the holidays, a new, smartly designed cosmetics case will make packing personal care products of all shapes and sizes a cinch.
Staying local? A new makeup bag for trips to the office or the gym feels like a fresh start without the broken zippers and exploded eyeshadow stains.
Ho, ho, oh! ’Tis the season for giving … yourself some love. Vibrators and other sex toys — solo or with a partner — can be great tools to help you achieve an orgasm, which can lower your heart rate and send a surge of dopamine and serotonin (feel good chemicals) through the body. So, having an orgasm is a pretty powerful stress reliever. If nothing else, do it for science.
If you love fancy coffee, but don’t always have time to grab your favorite hot beverage from your local roasters in the morning, stop in and purchase a few bags of your favorite blend. Most coffee shops that sell beans are happy to grind them for the type of coffee equipment you use.
Latte lover? Grab some holiday creamers or a frother for a barista-worthy coffee you can make on the fly and enjoy anytime. Pair it with a short visual meditation for a fully relaxing coffee break.
Is the holiday hustle getting really heavy? Try taking a break with a visit to a museum. This calming excursion requires you to silence your cell phone, walk at a snail’s pace and focus your mind on creativity, innovation, history and culture in contrast with the frenetic go-go-go of the holiday season.
Take your time, sketch or write in a notepad, or simply sit for a while and enjoy the view. And, if you want, you can pick up some stocking stuffers at the gift shop, crossing one item off your to-do list.
There are few things as satisfying as flinging off your bra at the end of the day and throwing on cozy clothes. But, no matter how comfortable they may be, letting go of clothes with holes and rips is a legitimate act of self-care. Replace them with a spa-worthy robe and other comfy staples for the win.
Everyone’s up to their eyeballs in holiday events and planning, but spending time with close friends is an elixir for stress and remembering what the holidays are all about: joy.
Meet up for coffee, hop on a Zoom call with a remote bestie or invite your crew over for a girl’s night in: DoorDash, fuzzy socks and spa masks are mandatory.
A recent study revealed that spending time outdoors at night has significant mental health benefits. Bundle up and find a serene, quiet place to be calmed by the infinite beauty of the night sky. If you’re in an urban area, head up to your rooftop with a blanket and pillow and a mini telescope attachment that fits onto your smartphone.
When you’re done with your Dear Santa letter, pen yourself a love letter. It might sound cheesy, but expressing gratitude for yourself is important. All it takes is a quiet room, a notepad or journal, and a writing utensil to reflect on your own self worth. Remember, the holidays would be nothing if they didn’t have you.
Hyperion DeFi (NASDAQ: HYPD) reported multiple DeFi treasury and partnership updates on December 4, 2025: receipt of 1,918,478.78 KNTQ from a Kinetiq token generation event, a recorded KNTQ price of $0.145 on Hyperliquid as of 12:00 AM UTC December 3, 2025, and the right to stake 28,888 HYPE in Markets by Kinetiq (deployment expected December 8) to earn 10% proportional fee revenue. The company allotted 300,000 HYPE to Native Markets to promote USDH adoption and purchased 150,000 HYPE, bringing total holdings to 1,862,195 HYPE. Management reiterated Q4 adjusted revenue growth guidance of 31%–43% QoQ and expects positive operating cash flow in 2026.
Loading…
Loading translation…
Positive
Received 1,918,478.78 KNTQ in airdrop
KNTQ recorded price of $0.145 on Hyperliquid (Dec 3, 2025)
Right to stake 28,888 HYPE earning 10% of proportional fee revenue
Allocated 300,000 HYPE to Native Markets for USDH support
Reiterated 31%–43% QoQ adjusted revenue growth expectation for Q4
Negative
KNTQ trading history is new and is expected to be volatile
Insights
Hyperion increased on‑chain treasury, added staking and partnership income streams while expanding HYPE holdings.
Hyperion DeFi received 1,918,478.78 KNTQ via the Kinetiq token event and reported a recorded KNTQ price of $0.145 as of 12:00 AM UTC on December 3, 2025. The company secured the right to stake 28,888 HYPE into Markets by Kinetiq and to earn 10% of proportional fee revenue on related market activity. It also allocated 300,000 HYPE to Native Markets to support USDH and purchased an additional 150,000 HYPE, bringing total holdings to 1,862,195 HYPE.
These are explicit balance‑sheet and revenue‑generation actions. The staking and markets arrangements create identifiable fee income mechanics, and the Native Markets allocation carries concrete fee and rebate adjustments: 20% lower taker fees, 50% higher maker rebates, and 20% more volume credit toward fee tiers on USDH markets. The company also states expectations of 31% to 43% quarter‑over‑quarter adjusted revenue growth in Q4 and positive operating cash flows in 2026. These claims are company projections and not third‑party verified.
Watch short timelines and specific milestones: deployment of 28,888 HYPE to Markets on December 8, 2025, the realized trading liquidity and price of KNTQ after initial listings, and any filed financials that confirm the stated 31%–43% growth and 2026 cash‑flow target. Near term (days to weeks) will show staking revenue starts; medium term (quarter) will reveal whether the revenue guidance aligns with reported results.
Receives 1,918,478.78 KNTQ in the Token Generation Event Airdrop, Plus Right to Earn Additional Yield on 28,888 HYPE Staked by the Company
Partnership with Native Markets to Support Hyperliquid-Aligned USDH Stablecoin Generates Additional Yield for 300,000 HYPE Staked by the Company
Announces 150,000 HYPE purchase resulting in 1,862,195 Gross HYPE Tokens Owned by the Company
LAGUNA HILLS, Calif., Dec. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperion DeFi, Inc. (NASDAQ: HYPD) (“Hyperion DeFi” or the “Company”), today announced a series of updates demonstrating its ongoing digital asset treasury growth and strong forward momentum across its DeFi strategy, including new yield opportunities, expanded ecosystem partnerships, and additional HYPE accumulation.
“Amidst significant market volatility, Hyperion DeFi continues to execute on the roadmap we presented on Day One: accumulate HYPE, generate income on HYPE, accelerate our DeFi flywheel, and support Hyperliquid’s global adoption,” said Hyunsu Jung, Interim Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to announce these latest achievements and are grateful for the continued support of our strategic partners. These transactions demonstrate continued growth in our diversified income streams, which go far beyond a simple buy-and-hold digital asset treasury strategy.”
Kinetiq Airdrop and Markets by Kinetiq HYPE Deployment Opportunity
On the Company’s Q3’25 Earnings Call held on November 13, 2025, Hyperion DeFi announced that it held kPoints (“Kinetiq Points”) and anticipated being eligible for the Kinetiq airdrop in Q4’25. Today the Company confirms the receipt of 1,918,478.78 KNTQ through the Kinetiq token generation event on November 27, 2025. While KNTQ’s trading history is new and expected to be volatile, the token’s recorded trading price on the Hyperliquid exchange was $0.145 as of 12:00 AM UTC on December 3, 2025.
In addition, Hyperion DeFi secured the right to stake 28,888 HYPE tokens to Markets by Kinetiq, a decentralized exchange enabled by Hyperliquid’s HIP-3. The Company expects to deploy the HYPE into Markets on December 8th and will earn 10% of the proportional fee revenue generated on market activity.
“Kinetiq was built to bring institutional-grade staking infrastructure and beyond, to Hyperliquid. Seeing early partners like Hyperion DeFi participate so meaningfully in this next phase is an important validation of that mission,” said Justin Greenberg, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Kinetiq. “Their involvement in kPoints, the KNTQ genesis event and the launch of Markets by Kinetiq, sets a new standard for financial institutions of every kind. As we expand into decentralizing global markets, partners like Hyperion DeFi who understand the long-term importance of fully on-chain and transparent systems play a critical role in accelerating adoption across Wall Street, capital markets, and beyond.”
Partnership with Native Markets
The Company also announced a partnership with Native Markets, Inc. (“Native Markets”), to accelerate the global adoption of Hyperliquid’s native stablecoin, USDH. In this latest partnership, Hyperion DeFi allocated 300,000 HYPE to Native Markets. With a total of 1 million HYPE, Native Markets’ USDH is expected to receive the benefits of aligned quote assets, which include 20% lower taker fees, 50% higher maker rebates, and 20% more volume contribution toward fee tiers for all trading activity on USDH-denominated Hyperliquid markets. These benefits are expected to position USDH for increased adoption as the lowest-cost, most efficient stablecoin option for market participants.
“The launch of USDH on Hyperliquid marks a major milestone for Hyperion DeFi’s mission to advance financial innovation within this ecosystem,” said David Knox, Chief Financial Officer of Hyperion DeFi. “Stablecoins aren’t just another asset class; we believe they are the future of money movement and the connective tissue between digital asset networks and global liquidity. This deal, our third DeFi monetization transaction, advances our broader roadmap to strengthen cross-market liquidity and accelerate Hyperliquid’s position as a premier venue for global access to finance. As with our transactions with Credo and Felix, with this latest Native Markets transaction, we expect to be able to generate returns exceeding traditional staking yields, further accelerating our DeFi flywheel strategy. The transactions we are announcing today reinforce our confidence of 31% to 43% quarter-over-quarter adjusted revenue growth in Q4 and achieving positive operating cash flows in 2026.”
Additional HYPE Purchase
To further Hyperliquid DeFi deployment efforts, the Company has purchased an additional 150,000 HYPE, expanding its total holdings to 1,862,195 HYPE.
About the Hyperliquid Platform and the HYPE Token
Hyperliquid is a next-generation layer one blockchain optimized for high frequency, transparent trading. The blockchain includes fully on-chain perpetual futures and spot order books, with every order, cancel, trade, and liquidation occurring within 70 millisecond block times. It also hosts the HyperEVM, a general-purpose smart contract platform that supports permissionless decentralized financial applications akin to Ethereum.
HYPE is the native token of Hyperliquid. Staked HYPE provides utility for users via reduced trading fees and increased referral bonuses. As of November 2025, more than 35 million HYPE have been autonomously purchased and sequestered by the blockchain with the trading fees generated on the network’s central limit order books.
About Hyperion DeFi, Inc.
Hyperion DeFi, Inc. is the first U.S. publicly listed company building a long-term strategic treasury of HYPE. The Company provides investors with streamlined access to the Hyperliquid ecosystem, one of the fastest growing, highest revenue-generating blockchains in the world. Shareholders benefit from compounding exposure to HYPE, both from its native staking yield and additional revenues generated from its unique on-chain utility.
Hyperion DeFi is also developing its proprietary Optejet User Filled Device that is designed to work with a variety of topical ophthalmic liquids, including artificial tears and lens rewetting products. The Optejet is especially useful in chronic front-of-the-eye diseases due to its ease of use, enhanced safety and tolerability, and potential for superior compliance versus standard eye drops. Together, these benefits may result in higher treatment compliance and better outcomes for patients and providers.
Kinetiq is a liquid staking protocol built natively on Hyperliquid to unlock utility, yield, and composability for HYPE. It has rapidly grown to become the leading LST on Hyperliquid with >80% market share, with >$1B in TVL and a modular product suite spanning staking, institutional infrastructure, permissionless exchange deployment, and now its own decentralized exchange powered by Hyperliquid’s HIP-3.
Created by Kinetiq, Markets is a fully onchain decentralized exchange built on Hyperliquid as a universal, permissionless layer for all asset classes. Markets is powered and co-owned by its community through kmHYPE, the first decentralized exchange Liquid Staking Token (exLST), built on the same battle-tested architecture that secures billions in TVL with Kinetiq’s kHYPE.
Native Markets is building $USDH, the Hyperliquid-native stablecoin. Integrated on the Hyperliquid blockchain, Native Markets’ stablecoin enables gas-free payments, unlocks access to noncustodial financial primitives, and offers deep liquidity against existing stablecoins. With USDH’s permissionless design, builders can seamlessly integrate the stablecoin and tap into the vibrant Hyperliquid ecosystem and its network effects.
Except for historical information, all the statements, expectations and assumptions contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that express our intentions, beliefs, expectations, strategies, predictions or any other statements, our future activities or other future events or conditions, including the viability of, and risks associated with, our cryptocurrency treasury strategy, the growth and revenue potential of the Hyperliquid ecosystem and the growth prospects of the Company. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our business based, in part, on assumptions made by management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may, and in some cases are likely to, differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements due to numerous factors discussed from time to time in documents which we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and except as may be required under applicable securities laws, Hyperion DeFi does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
Certain information contained in this press release relates to or is based on studies, publications, surveys and other data obtained from third-party sources and Hyperion DeFi’s own internal estimates and research. While Hyperion DeFi believes these third-party studies, publications, surveys and other data to be reliable as of the date of this press release, it has not independently verified, and makes no representation as to the adequacy, fairness, accuracy or completeness of, any information obtained from third-party sources. In addition, no independent source has evaluated the reasonableness or accuracy of Hyperion DeFi’s internal estimates or research and no reliance should be made on any information or statements made in this press release relating to or based on such internal estimates and research. You should conduct your own investigation and analysis of Hyperion DeFi, its business, prospects, results of operations and financial condition. In furnishing this information, Hyperion DeFi does not undertake any obligation to provide you with access to any additional information (including forward-looking information and any projections contained herein) or to update or correct the information.
Hyperion DeFi, Inc. Investor Contact: Jason Assad Hyperion DeFi, Inc. IR@hyperiondefi.com (678) 570-6791
FAQ
How many KNTQ tokens did Hyperion DeFi (HYPD) receive in the airdrop on Dec 4, 2025?
Hyperion DeFi received 1,918,478.78 KNTQ in the Kinetiq token generation event.
What price was KNTQ trading at on Hyperliquid on Dec 3, 2025 for HYPD investors?
KNTQ was recorded at $0.145 on Hyperliquid as of 12:00 AM UTC on Dec 3, 2025.
What staking opportunity did Hyperion DeFi announce for HYPE on Dec 4, 2025?
The company secured the right to stake 28,888 HYPE in Markets by Kinetiq and expects to earn 10% of proportional fee revenue.
How much HYPE did Hyperion DeFi allocate to Native Markets to support USDH on Dec 4, 2025?
Hyperion DeFi allocated 300,000 HYPE to Native Markets to support USDH adoption and aligned quote benefits.
How many additional HYPE tokens did Hyperion DeFi purchase and what are total HYPE holdings?
The company purchased 150,000 HYPE, bringing total gross holdings to 1,862,195 HYPE.
What near-term revenue guidance did Hyperion DeFi provide on Dec 4, 2025?
Management reiterated expected adjusted revenue growth of 31%–43% QoQ for Q4 and projects positive operating cash flows in 2026.
Global oil prices are edging higher today, but the move is modest and still framed by a bigger story of oversupply and cautious forecasts for 2026. Brent crude is trading just under $63 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) sits around $59 per barrel, after a month of tight ranges and heavy focus on OPEC+ policy, Ukraine–Russia peace talks and fresh downgrades to long‑term price forecasts. [1]
Below is a detailed look at where prices stand today, what’s moving the market, and how new forecasts from Fitch and other analysts are reshaping expectations for 2025–2027.
1. Where Oil Prices Stand Today (December 4, 2025)
Spot / front‑month levels
As of late morning in Europe on Thursday, December 4, 2025:
Brent crude futures are trading around $62.9–$63.0 per barrel, up about 0.3–0.4% on the day. [2]
WTI crude is hovering near $59.2–$59.3 per barrel, also up roughly 0.5–0.6% versus Wednesday’s close. [3]
Different data providers show small intraday discrepancies, but they all tell the same story: oil is slightly firmer today after a quiet, range‑bound November.
Performance in context
Brent is down about 12–13% year‑on‑year and roughly 1% lower over the past month, according to Trading Economics’ daily series. [4]
WTI is down more than 14% year‑to‑date and about 2% lower over the last month, even after this week’s rebound. [5]
ICE Brent futures have averaged roughly $68.8 per barrel from January to November 2025, more than $11 below the 2024 average, highlighting how far prices have slipped from last year’s levels. [6]
In short, today’s bounce comes against a clearly bearish 2025 backdrop: prices are higher than the market’s worst moments earlier in the year but still comfortably below 2024 and long‑term averages.
2. Today’s Main Driver: Ukraine Strikes on Russian Oil Assets and Stalled Peace Talks
The key news story driving today’s modest gains is renewed Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, paired with frustratingly slow peace negotiations.
Drone strikes and the Druzhba pipeline
Ukraine hit the Druzhba pipeline in Russia’s Tambov region, one of Europe’s major conduits for Russian crude to Hungary and Slovakia. This was at least the fifth attack on the pipeline, according to Ukrainian and Reuters reporting. [7]
Despite the strike, the pipeline operator and Hungary’s national oil and gas company said flows are continuing normally, which is why the price reaction has been limited rather than dramatic. [8]
Beyond pipelines, Ukraine has ramped up drone strikes on Russian refineries:
Consultancy Kpler estimates these attacks have cut Russian refining throughput to around 5 million barrels per day between September and November, roughly 335,000 bpd lower than a year earlier, with gasoline and gasoil hit hardest. [9]
These disruptions raise the perceived risk premium in oil, especially in refined products, but because exports and pipeline flows have not been seriously curtailed so far, the impact on crude prices remains contained.
Peace talks that go nowhere
At the same time, Ukraine–Russia peace efforts have stalled:
Envoys of U.S. President Donald Trump returned from talks with the Kremlin with no breakthrough or clear roadmap for ending the war, dampening earlier hopes that sanctions on Russian oil might soon be relaxed. [10]
Earlier optimism about a quick peace deal had pushed prices lower on the assumption that Russian barrels would rush back into an already oversupplied market. The lack of progress now nudges prices higher, not because demand is strong, but because the “bearish peace scenario” looks less imminent.
Put together, the supply risk from attacks and lack of a peace deal are giving crude a gentle lift today, but they are running into a wall of bearish fundamentals.
3. The Bearish Counterweight: U.S. Inventory Builds and Record Output
If geopolitics are leaning bullish, fundamentals are leaning bearish.
U.S. crude and fuel inventories keep rising
Fresh weekly data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) show that:
Commercial crude stocks rose by about 574,000–600,000 barrels in the week ending November 28, to roughly 427.5 million barrels, versus market expectations for a sizeable draw of almost 2 million barrels. [11]
Gasoline inventories surged by about 4.5 million barrels to over 214 million barrels, signalling soft demand. [12]
Rising inventories in the world’s largest oil consumer send a clear message: consumption is not strong enough to absorb current supply, let alone additional barrels.
U.S. production remains near record highs
EIA weekly data suggest U.S. crude output is around 13.8 million barrels per day, essentially at record levels, even as growth is expected to flatten in 2026. [13]
This dynamic—high inventories plus record production—helps explain why today’s geopolitical headlines are producing only a mild bounce instead of a sustained rally.
4. OPEC+ Has Locked In a Production Pause for Q1 2026
Another crucial piece of the puzzle is OPEC+ policy, which has now been clarified through the first quarter of 2026.
Output frozen, capacity mechanism approved
At meetings held at the end of November, OPEC+ decided to:
Keep oil output unchanged throughout Q1 2026, effectively pausing further production increases after a year in which eight members collectively raised targets by about 2.9 million barrels per day. [14]
Maintain roughly 3.24 million bpd of cuts compared with pre‑cut levels—around 3% of global demand—including a long‑standing 2 million bpd group‑wide reduction that runs through the end of 2026. [15]
Approve a new mechanism to assess each member’s maximum sustainable production capacity during 2026, which will be used to set baseline quotas from 2027 onward, a key step in resolving long‑running disputes about who deserves what share of the pie. [16]
Analysts describe the decision as a “stability over ambition” move: the group is accepting flat output in the near term to avoid deepening an expected surplus.
IEA expects a large surplus in early 2026
The International Energy Agency (IEA) and various analyst houses see a hefty surplus ahead:
A Reuters poll of 35 economists and analysts suggests global oil markets could be in surplus by anywhere from 0.5 to over 4 million barrels per day in 2026, with the IEA on the high end at around 4.1 mbpd. [17]
Against that backdrop, OPEC+’s decision to freeze Q1 2026 output looks less like an aggressive support move and more like the bare minimum needed to prevent a deeper price slide.
5. Fresh Forecasts: Fitch and Analysts Turn More Cautious
Fitch cuts its 2025–2027 oil price assumptions
In a major development for medium‑term expectations, Fitch Ratings has lowered its base‑case oil price assumptions:
Fitch explicitly cites “large market oversupply”, with production growth expected to outpace only modest increases in demand. It forecasts global oil demand growth of about 0.8 million barrels per day in both 2025 and 2026, below historical norms, reflecting slower GDP growth, petrochemical weakness and the energy transition. [19]
Fitch’s stress‑case scenario keeps even lower prices in the outer years but is mainly a risk management framework for corporate credit analysis.
Reuters poll: 2026 averages slip to the low 60s
The caution is widespread:
A Reuters survey of 35 economists and analysts expects Brent to average about $62.23/bbl in 2026, down from October’s $63.15 forecast.
The same poll underscores the oversupply narrative, pointing to increased OPEC+ output since April and robust non‑OPEC supply, with U.S. production near records.
Market commentary: a floor, but not much upside
Oilprice.com’s recent macro analysis synthesises this emerging consensus:
2026 forecasts clustering around $62 for Brent and $59 for WTI.
The IEA’s surplus projections are seen as aggressive but even the most conservative views expect stock builds, not deficits next year.
With WTI projected to average around $59, slightly below the breakeven for new Permian wells, analysts argue this may create a de facto price floor by discouraging high‑cost supply, reducing the odds of a sharp, sustained collapse. [21]
The net takeaway: today’s prices near $63 (Brent) and $59 (WTI) are very close to where major institutions expect them to average over the next 12–24 months.
6. Short‑Term Technical Picture: Range‑Bound With a Mild Bullish Bias
Beyond macro fundamentals, several technical analysts released intraday commentary for December 4:
Brent crude is described by Economies.com as trading above its 50‑day exponential moving average (EMA50), using that level as “dynamic support” while attempting to build enough bullish momentum to extend its positive intraday path. [22]
A companion note on generic crude oil (closely tracking WTI) says prices recently dipped but remain above EMA50 and along a minor upward trend line, with oscillators having flashed negative signals before stabilising—conditions that often precede short‑term recoveries within an existing uptrend. [23]
Meanwhile, brokerage research (e.g., recent notes from Forex‑focused platforms) characterises WTI as “neutral around $60”, with intraday volatility under 0.2% for much of the week—evidence of a tight, indecisive trading range rather than a strong directional trend. [24]
Key technical takeaway: The charts largely agree with the fundamentals and forecasts: crude looks range‑bound, with $60 for WTI and the low‑to‑mid $60s for Brent acting as important pivot zones rather than launching pads for a new bull market.
7. What Today’s Oil Price Means for Consumers and Businesses
For fuel and inflation
With Brent in the low $60s, headline crude prices are far from the triple‑digit spikes seen earlier in the decade, easing pressure on global inflation compared to 2022–23.
However, refined fuel prices still depend heavily on local taxes, refinery margins and logistics. Ukraine’s strikes on Russian refineries and shipping routes can lift diesel and gasoline cracks even if crude remains muted, especially in Europe. [25]
In other words, cheap(er) crude does not automatically guarantee cheap fuel, but it is helping central banks and households compared with the peak‑inflation years.
For oil‑linked stocks and producers
Lower long‑term assumptions from Fitch and a softer 2026 average in analyst polls imply more conservative cash‑flow projections for oil majors and independents. [26]
Companies with low lifting costs, strong balance sheets and diversified portfolios (especially those integrating gas and renewables) look better positioned under a $60–$65 Brent world than high‑cost, highly leveraged producers.
Equity investors are likely to reward discipline and shareholder returns (buybacks, dividends) over aggressive volume growth as long as oversupply dominates the narrative.
8. Key Risks and Catalysts to Watch After Today
Even if oil looks “stuck” near current levels, there are several ways the story could change:
Ukraine–Russia peace track
A credible peace framework that includes a gradual rollback of sanctions could unleash more Russian supply and push prices lower.
Conversely, a breakdown in talks or further attacks on export terminals, pipelines or tankers could sharply raise the risk premium. [27]
OPEC+ discipline and internal tensions
The new capacity‑assessment framework will reopen the long‑running debate over quotas for countries like the UAE and some African producers. A messy negotiation in 2026 could fracture unity and undermine the production freeze. [28]
Demand surprises
If global growth in 2026 surprises to the upside, or if Chinese demand rebounds more strongly than current forecasts suggest, the expected surplus could narrow quickly.
On the flip side, a deeper downturn or faster‑than‑expected energy‑transition effects could entrench sub‑$60 WTI pricing.
U.S. shale and investment response
With projected WTI averages drifting near or below new well breakevens in some basins, persistent low prices could slow investment more sharply than currently modelled, tightening balances later in the decade. [29]
9. Quick FAQ: Oil Price Today
Is oil going up or down today? Today, prices are up modestly—Brent and WTI are each higher by roughly 0.3–0.6%—mostly on supply‑risk headlines from Ukraine and stalled peace talks, but gains are capped by weak fundamentals and oversupply worries. [30]
Why isn’t oil higher given all the geopolitical risk? Because stocks are building, U.S. production is near records, and OPEC+ has already moved from deep cuts to cautious increases and now a freeze. The market sees plenty of barrels for 2026, so geopolitical events need to produce actual, sustained supply losses to meaningfully lift prices. [31]
What do major forecasters expect for the next few years?
Fitch now assumes $69 Brent in 2025, drifting to $63 in 2026–27, with WTI at $64 then $58. [32]
A Reuters poll pegs 2026 Brent at about $62 and WTI at $59. [33]
That means today’s levels are very close to where professionals expect the market to trade on average over the medium term, unless something big changes in supply, demand or policy.
USD/JPY slips amid ongoing volatility, but key levels between ¥155 and ¥158 remain central to near-term direction.
Broader strength still favors the dollar, with FOMC guidance likely to determine the next significant move.
The US dollar has fallen a bit against the Japanese yen during the trading session on Wednesday, as we continue to see a lot of noisy trading. The 155 yen level is an area that has previously been supported over the last couple of days, and therefore, if we bounce from here, it would not be a huge surprise.
If the market were to break down below the 155 yen level, then it opens up the possibility of a move down to the 153 yen level, with the 50-day EMA sitting right around the same area. The market turning around and breaking above the 156 yen level opens up the possibility of a move to the 158 yen level. The 158 yen level is an area that has seen resistance previously. And I think if we can break above there, it could open up the possibility of a move to the 160 yen level. Ultimately, this is a market that I think continues to see a lot of volatility and choppiness, but really with the interest rate differential coming into play.
US Dollar Isn’t Dead Yet
I think you still see US dollar strength overall. A lot of this is going to come down to the FOMC press conference, not the interest rate decision next Wednesday. And if it sounds remotely hesitant to cut rates for the next multiple meetings, then I suspect that’s where we start to bounce pretty significantly. Regardless, you get paid to hold this pair. I’ve been long for this market in various sizes for several months now, and nothing’s really changed at this point.
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.
The global ceramide market was valued at USD 360.4 million in 2023, with the food application segment expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2030 [1]. The Asia Pacific region dominated the global ceramide market, accounting for over 35.0% of the revenue share in 2023 [2]. This expansion is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness of skin health and the crucial role of ceramides in maintaining the skin barrier
Several key factors are fuelling this market evolution [1]:
Rising consumer awareness: a growing scientific understanding of skin barrier function among consumers has led to increased demand for ceramide-based products, particularly to target barrier repair, hydration, and managing conditions like eczema. This trend is exemplified by specific markets like Thailand, where recent research reveals strong consumer recognition of ceramides. In a 2021 Mintel survey, ceramides ranked among the top three functional beauty ingredients with 41% consumer awareness, alongside peptides and retinol [2].
Aging population dynamics: the rising global geriatric population and a corresponding focus on anti-aging skincare solutions continue to drive demand for functional ingredients like ceramides that address age-related skin concerns.
Supplement innovation: the dietary supplements segment represents a significant growth opportunity, with oral ceramides gaining increasing recognition for their skin health benefits. Clinical studies demonstrate that supplementation with plant-derived ceramides effectively supports skin barrier function from within.
Preference for natural sources: the natural ceramides segment, primarily derived from plant sources, leads the market and is expected to witness the fastest growth, reflecting the broader industry movement toward sustainable and plant-based ingredients.
The increasing focus on research and development continues to produce significant advancements in ceramide extraction methods and formulation technologies, enabling the creation of more effective and stable products that meet evolving consumer needs.
Trend spotlight: ceramide supplements for face care
A pivotal trend is the prominence of ceramide supplements, moving them beyond a niche ingredient to a cornerstone of the “beauty from within” movement. This is driven by significant scientific validation. Formulation strategies now combine ceramides with other active ingredients like collagen or antioxidants (e.g., the “Advanced Ceramides” formulation with Grape Seed Extract and Vitamin C), offering a comprehensive anti-aging and wellness solution. This focus on ingestible solutions is setting the stage for more advanced, holistic regimens that combine internal and external care for comprehensive results.
Skin structure and wellness
The stratum corneum—the skin’s outermost layer—acts as the crucial first line of defence. Skin wellness is defined by this barrier’s ability to function effectively, demonstrating optimal hydration, balanced pH, and strong resistance to aggressors. A healthy barrier maintains appropriate moisture retention, prevents excessive water loss, and reflects health through smooth texture and elasticity.
The critical role of ceramides
Ceramides are essential lipids naturally produced by keratinocytes in the epidermis (via the de novo pathway [4]). They constitute approximately 50% of the stratum corneum lipids, forming an organised matrix with other fats (cholesterol and fatty acids).
Their essential functions include:
Barrier formation: creating an impermeable barrier to maintain the skin’s defence.
Hydration regulation: locking moisture within the skin and preventing transepidermal water loss.
Protection: shielding against environmental stressors.
Cellular communication: acting as signalling molecules to support skin barrier homeostasis.
Aging and barrier weakening
As we age, the skin’s natural ceramide levels gradually decrease, starting in the 30s and accelerating with age. This decline, worsened by factors like UV exposure, pollution, and hormonal changes, compromises the barrier. This depletion results in increased skin sensitivity, moisture loss, and visible signs of aging.
The “in & out” strategy: the benefits of oral ceramides supplements
The “in & out” beauty concept represents an evidence-based strategy combining topical applications with oral supplementation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that oral intake of ceramide-containing supplements can improve stratum corneum hydration without adverse effects, while topical products help restore the skin’s natural barrier function [3].
The scientific rationale for this dual approach lies in its complementary mechanisms:
Topical application (external support): ceramides integrate directly into the stratum corneum to help restore the skin’s lipid barrier immediately, providing targeted reinforcement and supporting optimal moisture retention at the surface level.
Oral supplementation (internal support): plant-derived ceramides are absorbed through the digestive system, distributed via the bloodstream, and provide sustained support for skin health from within.
Formulation excellence: creating advanced nutricosmetic skin care
The development of effective ceramide formulations requires integrating skin biology expertise with formulation science to optimise stability, efficacy, and bioavailability. Current research suggests two key principles guiding modern, high-performance formulations:
Considerations in sourcing and bioavailability: the foundation relies on careful selection of scientifically-validated, bioavailable raw materials. This helps ensure ceramides can be effectively absorbed and utilised by the body to support natural skin ceramide production.
Potential for synergistic integration: formulation enhancement emerges through combining ceramides with complementary actives. Studies suggest promising combinations:
Integration of antioxidants (like Vitamin C and E) to protect ceramide lipids from oxidative stress.
Combination with dermal-support ingredients (like collagen peptides) for broader support for both barrier function and structural integrity.
Mastering the science of ceramides is key to developing next-generation skincare solutions. Ingredients like CERAMOSIDES™, a natural, wheat-derived ceramide complex, exemplify the potential of scientifically-backed oral supplements to restore the skin barrier from within. This holistic approach not only revitalises skin health but also shows promise for related applications, such as improving hair vitality.
Grand View Research. (2024). Ceramide Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Natural, Synthetic), By Application (Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 – 2030.
Mintel. (2021). Lack of ingredient awareness and new-age skin concerns present growth opportunities for beauty brands in Thailand.
PubMed. Yoshihiro Tsuchiya & Al. (2020). Safety and Efficacy of Oral Intake of Ceramide-Containing Acetic Acid Bacteria for Improving the Stratum Corneum Hydration: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study over 12 Weeks
PubMed. Yukiko Mizutani & Al. (2009). Ceramide biosynthesis in keratinocyte and its role in skin function.
Dogecoin Price Predictions are once again in focus as the market readies itself for a volatile start to Q1 2026. Sentiment remains mixed for DOGE, with traders now keenly waiting for signals of strength or deeper weakness.
The recent adjustment in liquidity throughout the broader market has forced investors to consider projects with real utility, and that discussion now involves Remittix as interest in crypto-to-fiat solutions heats up. Both tokens enter the new quarter with strong attention, but the outlook for each rests on very different fundamentals.
Dogecoin Price Predictions and Current Market Action
Dogecoin is hovering near the $0.14–$0.15 region, a historically important zone that has repeatedly acted as a stabilizing anchor during periods of market stress.
Community discussions continue to circle around the possibility of a future move toward $1, a target highlighted periodically in posts such as recent chart commentary. However, models based on historical cycle structure and liquidity trends indicate a nearer-term fair-value band closer to $0.18–$0.24. Long-term charts covering 2014–2025 emphasize DOGE’s previous breakout phases in 2017 and 2021 and track an ascending multi-year trendline, but analysts stress that cycle-based projections come with considerable uncertainty. Accumulation indicators also show mixed signals: some clusters resemble early-stage pattern formation, while others reflect hesitation tied to broader liquidity conditions.
Dogecoin’s uncapped supply and dependence on occasional endorsements from Elon Musk to boost its price may see investors placing greater emphasis on actual ‘token utility’ going into 2026. Dogecoin price source: Brave New Coin DOGE market data
Speculative interest has been influenced by ongoing conversation around a potential Dogecoin spot ETF, though early inflows into thematic crypto products remain modest. Historical examples from Bitcoin and Ethereum suggest ETF approvals alone are not guaranteed catalysts. Technical traders are monitoring a developing falling-wedge structure and watching for confirmation above diagonal resistance, with some analysis suggesting potential upside if momentum strengthens. Despite this, most emphasize confirmation rather than anticipation.
Why Dogecoin Price Predictions Are Uncertain Going Into Q1
Short-term metrics reflect a market still under pressure. A recent drop below $0.15 triggered over 1.56 billion DOGE in sell volume, and although RSI readings show neutrality and repeated bounces around $0.15 hint at early stabilization, a break above channel resistance remains essential. Dogecoin’s inflationary supply of roughly 5 billion new coins per year continues to weigh on valuation models, as noted in various recent analyses. Dogecoin Price Predictions continue to be susceptible to any shift in liquidity conditions, whale activity, and broader risk appetite entering the new year.
At the same time, the crypto search space is expanding toward projects tied to real utility. Traders looking at best crypto presale 2025, and crypto with real utility topics often compare meme-driven volatility with tokens offering clear value paths. This shift explains why Dogecoin Price Predictions now share attention with newer PayFi-focused platforms.
Remittix Outlook for Q1: Utility Leading the Conversation
Remittix enters Q1 with rising interest thanks to a series of major developments. The Remittix Wallet is now live on the Apple App Store, functioning as a full crypto wallet in its first phase. The project team has confirmed that crypto-to-fiat functionality will be added directly inside the app, forming the core of the PayFi engine. Android development is already in motion, expanding access across devices.
The project continues to scale its ecosystem. The beta program now invites more testers, with weekly top purchasers gaining early access on iOS. Community testing supports faster product refinement, which strengthens confidence in long-term adoption. The team is fully verified by CertiK and ranked #1 for pre-launch tokens on Skynet, raising global visibility through the auditor’s dashboard.
Remittix is priced at $0.119, backed by over $28.4 million raised from private funding and more than 692.6 million tokens sold. The rollout of future listings adds further attention, with confirmed upcoming positions on BitMart and LBank, plus a major listing tied to the next milestone.
The $250,000 giveaway and the active 15% USDT referral program continue to bring steady engagement.
Key Strengths of Remittix
Crypto-to-fiat system designed for real payments
Wallet live on the App Store and expanding testing
Ranked #1 on CertiK for pre-launch tokens
Upcoming listings on BitMart and LBank
Expanding user rewards through the referral model
2026 Outlook: A Diverging Path for DOGE and RTX
Dogecoin Price Predictions highlight uncertainty, while Remittix continues to build momentum through product releases, verification milestones, and upcoming listings. These contrasting setups suggest that as 2026 approaches, the market is shifting toward utility-driven growth, and Remittix is in a very strong position with attention broadening across PayFi projects.
Discover the future of PayFi with Remittix by checking out their project here:
1. What are the factors that might affect Dogecoin’s price predictions for early 2026?
Market liquidity, trading volume, and how well the token holds key support levels all go into the price predictions of Dogecoin. Analyst commentary and large-wallet activity also shape short-term expectations. Any shift in broader risk appetite affects DOGE movements heading into Q1.
2. Why are traders comparing Dogecoin to Remittix?
DOGE carries strong community momentum, while Remittix is gaining attention for real-world payment utility. Both tokens sit in different categories, yet investors track them together when evaluating market rotation toward projects with clearer long-term use cases.
3. Does Dogecoin need a catalyst to recover in Q1?
Current sentiment suggests that DOGE may require stronger participation from large holders and more consistent demand to stabilize. A sustained move above resistance zones would help rebuild confidence.
4. What recent updates strengthen Remittix heading into Q1?
Remittix has launched its wallet on the Apple App Store, expanded beta testing to more holders, secured future listings on BitMart and LBank, and received full CertiK team verification. These updates support interest as the project advances its PayFi ecosystem.
5. How do Dogecoin Price Predictions compare to expectations for RTX?
Dogecoin Price Predictions reflect uncertainty tied to recent market weakness. In contrast, RTX enters Q1 with momentum from product rollouts, private funding progress, and expanding ecosystem features. The difference lies in utility: Dogecoin relies on sentiment, while Remittix positions itself around practical payment use, which keeps it on watchlists for early stage crypto investment narratives.
This is a sponsored article. Opinions expressed are solely those of the sponsor and readers should conduct their own due diligence before taking any action based on information presented in this article.
Treasure NFT Withdrawal Update: Dec 5 Final or More Delays in Queue?
The big question shaking the entire community today is simple: Will the Treasure NFT withdrawal update finally stick on December 5, 2025, or will the date shift yet again? After months of delays, changed deadlines, login issues, and rising doubts, the platform’s latest announcement has created both excitement and fear among users.
The team has confirmed that the new Treasure NFT withdrawal date is December 5, with the team saying withdrawals will “officially open” for all holders. The announcement claims that BlackRock’s first round of capital injection will activate the channel, and leaders must urgently notify teams to prepare accounts and return to the system.
But the question remains: Is this the final Treasure NFT withdrawal time—or another delay waiting to happen?
Community Fear Grows Despite Treasure NFT Withdrawal Update Today
While the new update sounds confident, the fear inside the community is very real. This is not the first time TreasureNFT has promised a final date. Earlier deadlines included:
After so many shifts, users are unsure whether to trust the platform again. Many fear this could just be another temporary promise the way the Treasure NFT news came today. Yet, the tone from this team feels stronger this time, making it different from previous updates.
To support the process, TreasureFun has rolled out:
A Tiered Reporting System
Mandatory submission of UID through Level 4 leaders only
How to join TreasureNFT Official Group 9
Alerts for users to fix login issues under the new login system.
The leadership council has also been activated, and Level 4 and above executives have been invited to form a Core Leadership Council for coordinated communication.
Source: X
Treasure NFT New Withdrawal Date: Will It Stay or Shift Again?
The major concern is that if the TreasureNFT withdrawal date shifts again, it could result in a permanent loss of user trust. The community already feels exhausted after waiting for months. The platform knows this, and that’s why the latest announcement sounds far more confident.
However, past patterns cannot be ignored. If the date shifts again, analysts believe the next possible timelines could be: December 25 (Christmas) or January 1, 2026 (New Year).
Both seem like “ideal” delay windows based on previous behaviour.
Still, analysts say the tone of the latest update, the involvement of leaders, and the fresh capital injection claim make December 5 the most serious attempt so far. If successful, this could finally end the long wait for the users, who depend on the RESERVE → TRADE → EARN model for income.
Conclusion
The Treasure NFT withdrawal update brings hope, but doubt remains after multiple delays. If the platform delivers on December 5, it may restore confidence. If it shifts again, the community may not have the patience left. For now, all eyes are on the clock as the project prepares for its most important deadline ever.
Disclaimer: This is for educational purposes only. Always do your own research before any crypto investment.
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) Oil price falls on Tuesday, early in the European session. WTI trades at $58.45 per barrel, down from Monday’s close at $58.89.
Brent Oil Exchange Rate (Brent crude) is also shedding ground, trading at $62.37 after its previous daily close at $62.86.
WTI Oil FAQs
WTI Oil is a type of Crude Oil sold on international markets. The WTI stands for West Texas Intermediate, one of three major types including Brent and Dubai Crude. WTI is also referred to as “light” and “sweet” because of its relatively low gravity and sulfur content respectively. It is considered a high quality Oil that is easily refined. It is sourced in the United States and distributed via the Cushing hub, which is considered “The Pipeline Crossroads of the World”. It is a benchmark for the Oil market and WTI price is frequently quoted in the media.
Like all assets, supply and demand are the key drivers of WTI Oil price. As such, global growth can be a driver of increased demand and vice versa for weak global growth. Political instability, wars, and sanctions can disrupt supply and impact prices. The decisions of OPEC, a group of major Oil-producing countries, is another key driver of price. The value of the US Dollar influences the price of WTI Crude Oil, since Oil is predominantly traded in US Dollars, thus a weaker US Dollar can make Oil more affordable and vice versa.
The weekly Oil inventory reports published by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Energy Information Agency (EIA) impact the price of WTI Oil. Changes in inventories reflect fluctuating supply and demand. If the data shows a drop in inventories it can indicate increased demand, pushing up Oil price. Higher inventories can reflect increased supply, pushing down prices. API’s report is published every Tuesday and EIA’s the day after. Their results are usually similar, falling within 1% of each other 75% of the time. The EIA data is considered more reliable, since it is a government agency.
OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is a group of 12 Oil-producing nations who collectively decide production quotas for member countries at twice-yearly meetings. Their decisions often impact WTI Oil prices. When OPEC decides to lower quotas, it can tighten supply, pushing up Oil prices. When OPEC increases production, it has the opposite effect. OPEC+ refers to an expanded group that includes ten extra non-OPEC members, the most notable of which is Russia.
EUR/USD pushes higher but faces notable resistance, with broader direction likely hinging on next week’s FOMC decision.
Diverging economic trajectories between the U.S. and Europe continue to favor dollar strength on larger pullbacks.
The euro has seen another push higher during the trading session on Wednesday, but it does look like a market that I think is running into a little bit of a resistance barrier. In the short term, I suspect that the euro will probably continue to at least attempt to recover.
But in the longer term, a lot of this is going to come down to the fact that the United States will expand and grow next year, while Europe probably won’t or at least will in a much smaller manner than the American economy.
FOMC as the Next Major Driver
So with that being said, I’m looking at little rallies like this as opportunities to short, but I also recognize that right now we’re waiting on the FOMC.interest rate decision next Wednesday, and probably more importantly, the press conference afterwards. So that is going to be the next major driver, would be my guess, because if Jerome Powell suddenly sounds extraordinarily dovish, that will send this pair to the moon. But some of the leading indicators are starting to suggest that maybe massive rate cuts just aren’t going to be coming. And if that’s the case, then you’ve got a situation where the US dollar will eventually strengthen.
If we break down below the 1.14 level, this is a market that I think could really take off to the downside, reaching the 1.11 level. Keep in mind that the Euro against the US dollar is typically a very choppy and slow place to be. So even getting to 1.11 might take a couple of weeks. This is a market right now that’s just kind of searching for an external force to move it.
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.
If millennials were all about avocado on toast; then Gen Z is all about matcha. Its powerful green color makes it stand out on social media. A new wave of ‘matcha influencers’ extol the drink’s virtues. In cafes, matcha provides a welcome addition to hot or cold drink menus: an enticing option for people who don’t want to drink coffee.
So much so, the drink has been described as ‘Gen Z’s avocado-on-toast moment’.
“Matcha has gone from a niche ritual to a full-blown cultural moment,” said Cartia Mallan, a content creator, model, actress and entrepreneur who has more than 1.2 million followers across Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and who launched her own matcha brand Melo Matcha earlier this year.
“Honestly, it makes sense. It not only has incredible health benefits but it’s extremely aesthetic, making it very shareable.”
Cartia Mallan and Melo Matcha (Image: Melo Matcha)
Matcha, which comes from specially grown and processed green tea, may come with health halo (a high concentration of antioxidants and polyphenols) but its appeal is deeper than that. With its Japanese heritage and ritual, it has a lot to offer.
“Consumers aren’t just drinking it, they’re wearing it, posting it, and making it part of their identity,” said Mallan, who sources the brand’s Yubukita matcha from certified tea farms in Kagoshima, Japan.
“I think people love seeing ritual and routine and matcha has both of those things. It not only looks amazing but it just feels vibrant, lively and fresh! It has brought together a whole new community of people who are passionate about the heritage, Japanese culture, health, lifestyle and creating fun recipes.”
And then there’s also the practical potential of the tea: providing a gentle source of energy that consumers are constantly searching for. While comparing the levels of caffeine in coffee and matcha is difficult (depending always on the type and brewing process), matcha can generally be expected to have less caffeine than coffee and provide a gentler boost, thanks to the presence of L-theanine.
And yet, the elephant in the room for matcha is its distinctive taste: one that consumers don’t always react positively too.
The tea’s grassy, earthy, umami flavor profile can come as a surprise to consumers bought up on sweet profiles.
How brands are making matcha mainstream: Focus on quality, branding, education and experimentation…
For UK specialty tea brand Good & Proper, focusing on quality matcha is key. The company was an early champion of matcha: introducing it at its Clerkenwell tea bar in 2015. A decade later, it’s now one of the fastest-growing parts of the business (accounting for 15% of revenue and doubling sales year on year).
Good & Proper has just relaunched its House Matcha: a product that was more than a year in the making and which debuted at the London Coffee Festival earlier this year.
The focus is on quality: The new House Matcha is a vibrant blend, crafted in Kyoto by one of Japan’s most respected tea masters, Hiroshi Kobayashi.
Kobayashi-san selects the finest shade-grown leaves from the spring harvest, then blends them, batch by batch, to craft the exclusive matcha that is ‘creamy, smooth and with a delicate umami finish’.
“Matcha is an acquired taste of course, but the quality of Matcha on the market varies massively, which can impact the consumers’ understanding of it as a product,” said Emilie Holmes, founder of Good & Proper.
The new matcha was chosen with lattes in mind (Good & Proper)
“Our matcha is smooth, vibrant and delicately sweet, with a clean umami finish. It doesn’t need heaps of sweetener.
“What we want to get across is more around the education of how Matcha is produced and how the crafting of the leaves can really impact the quality of the output.”
Cartia Mallan of Melo Matcha takes matcha’s distinctive taste as a challenge. “I honestly love when someone says they ‘hate matcha’ as I find it to be my sole mission to convert them!” she said.
Her strategy is threefold: starting with attractive branding, education on how to prepare and enjoy matcha, and letting people discover how they want to enjoy the tea.
“I have tried to ensure my branding with Melo is warm and inviting,” she said. “I aim to offer education around matcha and the proper ways to prepare it to ensure people when trying it have an amazing experience.
“I also think matcha is so much about experimentation. I believe there isn’t one main way to enjoy matcha and the fun is in the exploration of that!”
Matcha can be used in a variety of ways: from traditional matcha tea occasions, to matcha lattes (both hot and cold) or even used in baking recipes.
