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As gaming wallets, Web3 gaming, and Play-to-Earn economies continue to expand globally, regulators are watching more closely than ever. From microtransactions and NFT trades to crypto withdrawals and cross-border payments, gaming platforms today face increasing pressure to prevent fraud and comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules.
This guide provides an expert, in-depth comparison of the top KYT/AML tools for gaming wallets in 2025 — including their features, strengths, weaknesses, pricing transparency, and best-fit use cases.
Whether you’re building a crypto-native gaming ecosystem or running a high-volume Web2 gaming platform, this guide will help you identify the best KYT and AML monitoring solution for your needs.
Gaming platforms are now prime targets for illegal activities due to high transaction volume, anonymity, and fast-moving digital assets.
Over the past three years, regulators worldwide have tightened AML expectations for any digital platform that moves value, including crypto gaming, NFT marketplaces, eSports betting, and hybrid fiat–crypto games.
Several enforcement trends make KYT and AML unavoidable for in-scope gaming platforms:
In short: gaming platforms that allow real-money cashouts, crypto deposits, NFT trading, or cross-border rewards are increasingly treated like financial service providers, and regulators expect them to monitor transactions with the same rigor as exchanges and fintechs.
GameFi ecosystems introduce new vectors for illicit activity because in-game assets behave like financial instruments but often move faster, across chains, and with less oversight.
Key risk drivers include:
Players make thousands of small purchases, upgrades, token swaps, or loot-box payments. Fraudsters use this velocity to obfuscate laundering patterns, making real-time KYT essential.
When players can earn tokens convertible to real money, the platform becomes a financial throughput channel. Bad actors farm tokens using bots or stolen accounts, then cash out quickly.
NFTs inside games can be used for:
GameFi users often move value between chains (ETH → Polygon → BNB Chain) or across multiple burner wallets. Criminals exploit these “hops” to bypass simple monitoring.
Fraud rings use automated scripts to:
When players withdraw rewards to exchanges or wallets in high-risk regions, the platform must detect jurisdictional risks, sanctions exposure, and abnormal flows.
For a deeper comparison of settlement methods, see our guide on stablecoin settlement vs card rails for gaming payouts.
Whether you operate a Web3 game, NFT marketplace, eSports betting hub, or mobile game with crypto rewards, you face:
KYT and AML tools are no longer optional safeguards — they’re baseline infrastructure for any gaming ecosystem that handles digital assets.
KYT tools analyse and monitor live transactions to detect suspicious behavior across gaming wallets. For gaming platforms, KYT can help monitor:
KYT focuses on real-time transaction risk, making it essential for gaming ecosystems where assets move fast.
KYT answers the question: “Is this transaction risky?”
AML tools are designed to:
AML is the umbrella.
KYT is one part of AML.
KYC is another.
Travel Rule is another.
AML answers: “Is our platform safe, compliant, and protected from financial crime?”
Gaming platforms typically use KYC when:
KYC usually includes:
KYC answers: “Who is this player?”
As soon as your gaming wallet infrastructure falls under categories like gambling operator, money transmitter, digital payment token provider, or VASP, AML/KYC controls stop being optional and become a regulatory obligation.
KYT and AML handle the risk of transactions, but regulators also require controls that govern who your players are and how crypto transfers are shared across platforms. This is where KYC and the Travel Rule become essential parts of your gaming compliance stack.
KYC (Know Your Customer) is used to verify the identity of your players. It becomes legally required — or at minimum expected by payment partners — in situations where real-world value moves through your game.
You need KYC when your platform allows:
KYC answers the fundamental question:
“Who is the player moving money through our platform?”
Regulators use this to prevent:
In other words:
KYC = identity assurance.
KYT = transaction risk.
AML = the full compliance framework.
The FATF Travel Rule applies whenever crypto moves between two regulated entities (such as gaming wallets ↔ exchanges).
Gaming platforms that act as custodial wallets or VASPs must comply when players:
When a covered crypto transfer happens, your platform must share:
This data “travels” with the transaction, just like in traditional banking.
GameFi ecosystems increasingly resemble financial environments:
players deposit, earn, trade, swap, and withdraw assets with real monetary value.
If your platform controls private keys or processes withdrawals, regulators see you as a value-transfer service — which triggers Travel Rule obligations.
Together, they create a closed-loop compliance system that prevents anonymous laundering through gaming wallets.
[ KYC ]
Identify & verify the player
│
▼
[ KYT ]
Real-time monitoring of transactions
│
▼
[ Travel Rule ]
Share required sender/receiver data
when crypto leaves the platform
│
▼
[ AML ]
Full compliance program:
- Sanctions & PEP checks
- Suspicious activity reporting
- Fraud & bot detection
- Documentation & audits
Regulators don’t classify “gaming platforms” based on whether they are games. They classify them based on how money moves, how players interact, and whether digital assets can be cashed out.
A gaming platform can suddenly become a gambling operator, a payment institution, or a virtual asset service provider (VASP) simply by enabling certain features inside the game.
Below is a clear breakdown of how regulators typically classify gaming wallets and GameFi ecosystems.
A game can be considered online gambling if it includes all three elements:
If all three occur, regulators in many jurisdictions classify the game as gambling, even if the developer calls it “gaming,” “P2E,” or “GameFi.”
Gaming platforms that offer betting-like mechanics also rely heavily on real-time data and risk controls. For operators in this category, our guide to sportsbook data feeds and odds providers explains how betting platforms structure their data and vendor landscape.
If your platform is treated as a gambling operator, you typically must:
This is why many GameFi projects avoid real-money loot boxes or cash-out mechanics—
the moment money + chance + prize coexist, gambling regulations may apply.
A gaming platform becomes a VASP when it handles cryptoassets on behalf of users in ways defined by regulators such as FATF, EU AMLR, MAS, FCA, and FinCEN.
You are likely a VASP if your platform does ANY of the following:
If players can send funds from an external wallet to your platform, or vice versa, the gaming company becomes a custodial wallet provider → a regulated VASP.
If players can swap tokens, transfer assets to each other, or trade NFTs for value, your platform may be classified as a crypto exchange or broker under VASP rules.
If your in-game token is tradable, cashable, or convertible into fiat/crypto, regulators will categorize you as facilitating virtual asset transfers, requiring AML controls.
If you operate a custodial gaming wallet, you are performing the same function as a crypto custodian → regulated under VASP frameworks.
Cross-border transfers (payouts, rewards, tournament prizes) trigger:
FATF Travel Rule requirements,
sanctions screening,
source-of-funds checks,
enhanced transaction monitoring.
Bottom line:
If your game handles real crypto, you are likely a VASP unless all wallets are fully non-custodial and all transfers occur on-chain without your control.
Even if your game does not use crypto, you may still fall under payment services regulation if:
Holding balances on behalf of players resembles “stored value facilities,” e-wallets, or “issuing of electronic money.”
Moving value from Player A to Player B (fiat, points, tokens) may be treated as money transmission.
International prize distribution can trigger:
In many jurisdictions (EU, UK, SG, US), if you process payments as a business model, you need licensing or must partner with a regulated payment provider.
Each tool is evaluated based on:
Transaction monitoring accuracy
AI/ML capabilities for fraud detection
Coverage for crypto + fiat gaming
API integration difficulty
Dashboards & UX for compliance teams
Regulatory coverage
NFT & token support
Sanctions screening performance
Reporting tools
Pricing transparency
Suitability for high-volume gaming ecosystems
Below is a global comparison of leading tools commonly used by gaming platforms, Web3 gaming apps, and P2E economies.
Overview:
Chainalysis is one of the leading providers of crypto transaction monitoring, used by major exchanges, financial institutions and numerous law enforcement and regulatory agencies worldwide.
Key Features for Gaming Wallets:
Real-time KYT monitoring
Strong blockchain coverage
Wallet clustering
NFT tracing
Alerts for suspicious gaming wallet behavior
Integration with Chainalysis Reactor for deep investigations
Strengths:
High‑performance, real‑time blockchain analytics with scalable transaction monitoring
Widely adopted by regulators and law‑enforcement agencies in dozens of jurisdictions
Supports NFT and DeFi tracing through Chainalysis’ broader Web3 analytics stack
Strong reporting features
Weaknesses:
Pricing is generally at the premium end of the market, reflecting focus on large institutions
Not specialized in gaming
Best For:
Large gaming platforms, P2E ecosystems, NFT-based games, crypto-native gaming wallets.

Overview:
TRM Labs offers high-accuracy blockchain intelligence and is strong in detecting abnormal patterns across gaming economies.
Key Features for Gaming Wallets:
Advanced transaction monitoring alerts and wallet screening with AI‑based risk scoring
AI-based risk scoring
NFT marketplace monitoring
Financial crime pattern detection
Multi-chain analytics
Strengths:
Fast, clean dashboard
Mature risk‑scoring models and behavioral analytics used by regulators, banks, and crypto firms
Very strong cross‑chain analytics (45+ chains & 200M+ assets)
Weaknesses:
Strong adoption with public‑sector agencies, though Chainalysis has a longer track record with some regulators
Pricing not publicly listed
Best For:
Medium–large gaming platforms with cross-chain assets.

Overview:
Elliptic specializes in crypto compliance with strong risk analytics and exchange-grade monitoring.
Key Features:
Wallet screening
Transaction monitoring
NFT & token analytics, cross‑chain NFT risk detection
Sanctions and PEP screening
Real-time alerts
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
Dataset is slightly smaller than the very largest providers but still covers 99% of global crypto transaction volume
Limited Web3 gaming-specific tools
Best For:
Gaming companies that need simple, fast, reliable KYT.

Overview:
A fast-growing competitor with deep behavioral analytics.
Key Features:
Predictive blockchain monitoring
Detailed behavioral patterns
High-quality risk insights
NFT transaction tracking
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
Best For:
Web3 game studios and P2E platforms needing budget-friendly KYT.

Overview:
A specialist in AML data (sanctions, watchlists, PEPs, adverse media) with customer screening & transaction monitoring.
Key Features:
Strengths:
Very strong global sanctions, PEP, and adverse media coverage, widely used in banking and fintech
Ideal for fiat-gaming or hybrid ecosystems
Excellent dashboard
Weaknesses:
Best For:
Traditional gaming platforms, hybrid payment models, and eSports betting hubs.
| Tool | KYT Monitoring | AML Screening | NFT Support | API Integration | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chainalysis | Excellent | Strong | Yes | Medium | Large gaming ecosystems | $$$ |
| TRM Labs | Excellent | Strong | Yes | Easy | Cross-chain gaming | $$$ |
| Elliptic | Good | Strong | Yes(NFT crime coverage) | Medium | General gaming | $$ |
| Merkle Science | Very Good | Medium | Yes | Easy | Web3 gaming startups | $$ |
| ComplyAdvantage | Basic | Excellent | No | Easy | Non-crypto gaming | $$ |
You need: Chainalysis or TRM Labs
Reason: Deep NFT movement analysis + wallet clustering.
You need: Merkle Science or TRM Labs
Reason: Multi-chain analytics + flexible pricing.
You need: ComplyAdvantage
Reason: Strong AML screening and sanctions checks.
You need: Elliptic or Chainalysis
Reason: Real-time fraud monitoring + API speed.
Use this checklist:
Transaction volume — large platforms require deeper analytics.
Crypto or fiat?
Crypto-heavy → Chainalysis, TRM, Merkle
Fiat-heavy → ComplyAdvantage
NFT support needed?
Global regulatory exposure (EU, US, APAC, MENA).
Budget flexibility — pricing varies widely.
API integration difficulty — start-ups need easy plug-and-play.
Compliance reporting needs.
Connect API to gaming wallet backend
Configure KYT risk thresholds
Enable real-time sanctions screening
Set automated alerts
Define escalation workflows
Train your compliance team
Run weekly audits
Document all compliance steps for regulators
KYT (Know Your Transaction) is real‑time monitoring of on‑chain and off‑chain transactions in gaming wallets to detect suspicious activity like bot farming, stolen assets, or sanctions‑linked wallets.
AML tools are required when a crypto gaming platform is regulated as a gambling operator, money transmitter or virtual asset service provider. In practice, most licensed GameFi or betting projects must implement AML/KYC controls.
Chainalysis, TRM Labs, Elliptic and Merkle Science all provide NFT‑aware blockchain analytics, making them strong options for NFT game marketplaces and P2E economies.
Pricing is quote‑based, but Merkle Science is often seen as more flexible for Web3 startups, while smaller projects may also use lighter tools or KYT via aggregators.
Yes — if your gaming platform handles real‑money bets, convertible crypto or cross‑border payouts, sanctions and PEP screening are now standard expectations from regulators and banking partners.
In 2025, gaming wallets operate at the intersection of gaming, fintech, and digital assets — making KYT and AML compliance essential, not optional.
Chainalysis → best overall for crypto gaming
TRM Labs → best for cross-chain & advanced analytics
Elliptic → balanced, good for mid-size platforms
Merkle Science → best for Web3 gaming startups
ComplyAdvantage → best AML tool for non-crypto gaming
Choosing the right solution will future-proof your platform, protect your players, and meet global regulatory standards.
Gold (XAU/USD) remains resilient after touching an intraday high of $4,259.34 and closing near $4,198.69 per ounce, down only 0.24% as profit-taking set in ahead of the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting on December 9–10. Traders booked gains following a powerful rally that has driven the metal more than 60% higher year-to-date, placing it 20% above its 200-day moving average. The current correction appears technical rather than structural, with support forming near $4,192.36, a critical Fibonacci retracement zone that continues to attract institutional interest.
Markets now price an 87% probability of a 25 bps Fed rate cut in December, as inflation indicators soften. Core PCE inflation eased to 2.8%, and job data revealed a sharp 32,000 decline in private payrolls, signaling labor market cooling. While the U.S. dollar remains firm, its inability to rally despite weaker employment data suggests underlying vulnerability. Lower yields are supporting the gold narrative, with the 10-year Treasury yield hovering near 3.88%, down from 4.45% last month. The mix of easing policy and slowing inflation keeps gold’s safe-haven appeal intact.
Global gold accumulation by central banks has reached its highest level in modern history. Ventura Capital projects gold could advance to $4,600–$4,800 in 2026, citing aggressive central bank buying, persistent inflation, and widening U.S. fiscal deficits. Deutsche Bank lifted its 2026 forecast to $4,450, maintaining a bullish stance through 2027 with targets near $5,150. Morgan Stanley sees $4,500 per ounce by mid-2026, expecting continued ETF inflows and steady official-sector purchases even if buying moderates. Together, these institutional forecasts point to structural strength rather than speculative excess.
From a charting perspective, XAU/USD shows immediate support at $4,200, reinforced by the 50-day moving average at $4,076.14. A breakdown below that level could open the door toward $4,056–$3,950, though momentum remains constructive above $4,192. Resistance zones lie between $4,255–$4,300, with further upside capped near $4,381–$4,441. A clean breakout above $4,300 would signal renewed buying power capable of driving gold toward the $4,500 psychological barrier.
Gold’s nine consecutive quarterly gains mark the strongest streak in over five decades, reflecting declining faith in fiat stability. The metal has appreciated over 59% year-to-date, outpacing global equity indices. Analysts attribute this surge to what Ventura described as a “systemic deterioration in fiat value”, intensified by expanding U.S. deficits and trade imbalances. The narrative of gold as the second most important reserve asset after the dollar is gaining momentum, with sustained buying from Asian and Middle Eastern central banks, including China and India.
In India, gold trades roughly 15% higher than Dubai, a spread caused by high import duties and rupee weakness. The domestic market’s structural premium underscores ongoing demand despite policy friction. In China, retail gold buying has softened slightly as traders await corrections, but institutional accumulation remains steady. This divergence keeps the global market balanced, with physical shortages emerging in key bullion hubs such as Singapore and Zurich.
After reaching an all-time peak near $4,398 on October 20, 2025, gold corrected to $3,891, an 11% pullback before rebounding sharply to $4,299 in early December. This pattern reflects controlled profit-taking amid optimism for a December Fed rate cut, not structural weakness. Gold’s recovery from its November low demonstrates investor conviction that policy easing will underpin higher prices into 2026.
At the corporate level, Gold.com (NYSE:GOLD) has seen its average one-year price target raised 29.7% to $35.02, with the upper range near $47.85 per share. Institutional positioning remains strong despite quarterly portfolio rotations — Royal Bank of Canada, First Eagle, and Ameriprise collectively hold over 70 million shares in gold-related equities and funds. The put/call ratio of 0.16 on GOLD signals bullish sentiment in derivative markets. ETF inflows, especially in the SPDR Gold Trust and iShares Gold ETF, have mirrored spot gold’s trajectory, reinforcing the underlying bid from institutional portfolios.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands near 58, indicating a moderate uptrend with room to extend. ADX around 37 suggests a sustained trend, while MACD remains slightly bullish, confirming that the recent dip is consolidation, not reversal. The 50-day EMA at $4,120 is converging toward the 100-day EMA, setting up a potential golden cross that could mark the start of the next leg higher if the Fed delivers the anticipated policy pivot.
Forecasts from Ventura, Deutsche Bank, and Morgan Stanley converge around a $4,600–$4,800 target for 2026, citing inflation persistence, central-bank demand, and ETF inflows. HDFC Securities recommends investors maintain a 5–10% portfolio allocation in gold and silver, given the asset’s role as a hedge against geopolitical volatility and monetary uncertainty. The medium-term bias remains upward, supported by real rate compression and continued structural demand.
With gold holding firm above $4,190 and fundamentals aligning across monetary, institutional, and technical fronts, XAU/USD remains in a confirmed bull cycle. The bias is Bullish, favoring BUY on dips toward $4,150–$4,200, targeting $4,450–$4,600 by mid-2026. Unless the Fed surprises with hawkish commentary or central banks abruptly scale back purchases, gold’s trajectory remains intact, positioning it as one of the few assets bridging monetary policy, inflation protection, and systemic risk hedging into the next cycle.
You might be doing everything right—taking a vitamin D supplement, drinking milk, eating salmon and soaking up midday rays. On the surface, it seems like you’ve got your vitamin D bases covered. Yet almost 25% of people in the United States are running low. Vitamin D plays far more roles in the body than you may realize.
“While its claim to fame is often associated with the role it plays in protecting bone health through helping the body absorb calcium, that’s not all you need vitamin D for,” says Elizabeth Shaw, M.S., RDN, CPT. “It’s also involved in communication in the body, muscle movement and immune health. In fact, you need vitamin D to help kick free radicals out of your body, like the common cold and flu, so you can stay healthy.”
Even if you’re taking a vitamin D supplement like clockwork every day, you still might not be absorbing enough. According to experts, the biggest mistake people are making is choosing the wrong form of vitamin D. So, which one should you be choosing? Here, we break down the differences between the two types of vitamin D and which one you should be reaching for.
When you look at vitamin D supplements options, you may notice two forms available: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. While both can help raise and maintain vitamin D levels, they come from different sources and your body utilizes them differently. Below we explore what sets the two apart.
Vitamin D2, also known by its scientific name ergocalciferol, comes primarily from plant-based sources. “Vitamin D2 is photosynthesized in plants, mushrooms and yeasts. In other words, mushrooms exposed to sunlight synthesize vitamin D2,” explains Holli Ryan, RD, LD.
Both D2 and D3 must undergo two steps to become biologically active: first, conversion in the liver, then again in the kidney. However, once activated, research shows that vitamin D3 is more effective at raising and maintaining 25(OH)D levels, which is your blood serum vitamin D status. Vitamin D2 has structural differences that reduce its ability to bind to vitamin D-binding protein, and it also breaks down more quickly. Its shorter half-life means it doesn’t stay in your system as long either. Ultimately, making it the less-than-desirable option.
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is found in animal-based foods such as salmon, tuna, herring, egg yolks, and cheese, as well as in fortified foods like dairy milk and orange juice. It’s also the form your body naturally produces when you get some rays. “Vitamin D3 is closer to the form your body naturally makes from sunlight, so it’s more efficient at supporting and maintaining vitamin D levels,” explains Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN.
Although the body can use both forms of vitamin D, studies show that vitamin D3 can raise blood levels of vitamin D higher and for longer than vitamin D2, says Shaw. In fact, guidelines indicate that vitamin D3 is approximately five times more potent at raising serum 25(OH)D concentrations, compared to D2.
With nearly 5% of the population at risk of vitamin D deficiency and another 18% with insufficient levels, maintaining adequate levels is a widespread problem. Vitamin D plays multiple critical roles in health, from supporting strong bones to bolstering immune health to aiding with muscle movement. When levels run low, it may lead to weakened immunity, fatigue, or low mood. That’s why choosing the right form of vitamin D is so important.
Here are a few expert-backed tips to help guide you towards picking up the right vitamin D supplement.
In addition to choosing the right vitamin D supplement, your diet, beverage choices and scheduling in sunshine time can help you boost your vitamin D levels too.
Monitor your levels regularly with a blood test to ensure you are maintaining adequate vitamin D levels.
The number one mistake people make when taking vitamin D is choosing the wrong form. Experts recommend selecting a vitamin D3 supplement over D2 for maximum benefit and absorption. Research states vitamin D3 is five times more potent than vitamin D2, and more effective at raising and maintaining blood vitamin D levels.
When picking out a supplement, make sure it’s independently tested, contains the D3 form, and comes in either soft or drop form. Other ways to boost your vitamin D levels are by eating fatty fish, mushrooms or drinking fortified milk or orange juice. Aim for at least 15 minutes of sunlight exposure a day. And don’t forget to monitor your vitamin D levels annually, as vitamin D plays a role in whole-body health.
If the internet’s three-beverages theory began as a meme, it has now quietly evolved into a lifestyle philosophy. And somewhere between the emotional-support water bottle and the caffeinated sweet drink, one contender in the “bevvy” trifecta has quietly emerged as a new favourite: hojicha.
the key to productivity is always having three potable liquids available to you. a caffeine source, a classic water, and a wildcard.
— bobby (@bobby) February 10, 2020
Origin and Appeal
Hojicha is not new. It has been part of Japanese tea culture since the early twentieth century, when tea merchants began roasting leftover green tea leaves, stems, and twigs to create an inexpensive everyday drink. The roasting process caramelises the leaves, completely changing their character. The result is a warm, toasted flavour that feels mellow and slightly sweet, which makes it taste less like green tea and more like something you’d want on a cold evening. Since much of the caffeine burns off during roasting, it is often served in the evenings in Japan and is associated with calmness more than stimulation.
What is new is how widely the drink is now travelling. In the past year or so, hojicha has appeared on café menus in cities across the globe, often repackaged as lattes or dessert-like specials. Unlike matcha, a drink that many new consumers still find grassy, intense, or intimidatingly ceremonial, hojicha feels instantly familiar. It tastes roasted rather than vegetal, mellow rather than sharp. For a generation raised on coffee and malted nutritional drinks, hojicha fits right in.
Supply Pressures and the Practical Appeal
Another factor nudging hojicha to the front is a global squeeze on matcha supply. In 2025, record heatwaves hit Japan’s tea-growing regions, cutting harvests by more than 20 per cent. At the same time, global demand remains surging, driven by viral social media traction. Shrinking harvests paired with higher demand have pushed matcha prices to record highs, forcing some exporters to ration supply. Unlike matcha made from tencha, young, shade-grown leaves that are highly susceptible to climate variations, hojicha is made by roasting older, lower-grade green tea leaves, stems, and stalks, which are more resilient and less in demand for other specific tea types.
Why Cafés are Turning to Hojicha
This combination of practical availability and rising curiosity has caught cafés’ attention. Urvi, co-founder of Hinoki, a slow-brew matcha bar in Delhi, says the demand didn’t appear suddenly. “People had been asking for hojicha for months before we introduced it,” she says. The café waited for winter intentionally, a season that suits the drink’s profile. “It’s a roasted tea, tastes like chocolate, nuts, caramel. For many people, it just feels like a winter drink.”
Her observation tells a larger story. Hojicha’s rise isn’t only the result of café innovation or internet trends; it’s also a response to what people are craving right now: warmth and low-caffeine comfort. Urvi also notes that even those initially sceptical have become regulars after trying a well-balanced version, which shows that the trend is organic, not hype-led. “Roast level makes all the difference,” she explains. When done right, it becomes a drink that appeals even to people who don’t like matcha.
Hojicha’s rise is partly a café-driven phenomenon. Instead of responding to demand, cafés are creating it, with weekly specials and quiet off-menu experiments. At Matcha House, only around five to ten percent of their sales come from hojicha, but the curiosity around it is far higher. Damayenti Ayekpam, a staff member at the café, says most customers still need an introduction to it, yet some become unexpectedly loyal. “There’s a customer who comes every two or three days just for the strawberry hojicha latte,” she says, referring to a drink that isn’t even on the menu. It’s a small example, but it shows how hojicha is moving one person at a time, not through hype, but through discovery.
A Growing Taste
India is still early in its hojicha moment, but it’s beginning to peek into metropolitan menus, not trying to replace matcha, but offering an alternative for those who want something gentler. Young drinkers who enjoy tea culture but don’t resonate with the ceremonial precision of matcha find hojicha approachable. It aligns with a cultural moment in which rest, slowness, and comfort have become desirable, even aspirational.
Interestingly, the trend also shows how internet trends flatten geography. A roasted tea developed in Kyoto’s tea shops is now part of a global moodboard connecting winter comfort, “three beverages” memes, and slow-living culture. And if the trajectory continues, we might soon see another Japanese roasted drink appear in the global rotation: mugicha, barley tea, which is already a summer staple across Japan and Korea.
For now, hojicha has moved from a background beverage in Japanese homes to a global staple, appearing on café menus around the world and even on shelves for people to brew at home. What started as a simple roasted tea is quietly becoming part of daily routines, quietly crossing borders and taste preferences alike.
End of Article
Over the past few decades, consumers have become more curious about their energy consumption and personal effects on climate change. When news stories started swirling regarding the possible negative effects of Bitcoin’s energy consumption, many became concerned about Bitcoin and criticized this energy usage. A report found that each Bitcoin transaction takes 1,173 KW hours of electricity, which can “power the typical American home for six weeks.” Another report calculates that the energy required by Bitcoin annually is more than the annual hourly energy usage of Finland, a country with a population of 5.5 million.
The news has produced commentary from tech entrepreneurs to environmental activists to political leaders alike. In May 2021, Tesla CEO Elon Musk even stated that Tesla would no longer accept the cryptocurrency as payment, due to his concern regarding its environmental footprint. Though many of these individuals have condemned this issue and move on, some have prompted solutions: how do we make Bitcoin more energy efficient? Others have simply taken the defensive position, stating that the Bitcoin energy problem may be exaggerated.
At present, miners are heavily reliant on renewable energy sources, with estimates suggesting that Bitcoin’s use of renewable energy may span anywhere from 40-75%. However, to this point, critics claim that increasing Bitcoin’s renewable energy usage will take away from solar sources powering other sectors and industries like hospitals, factories or homes. The Bitcoin mining community also attests that the expansion of mining can help lead to the construction of new solar and wind farms in the future.
Furthermore, some who defend Bitcoin argue that the gold and banking sector — individually — consume twice the amount of energy as Bitcoin, making the criticism of Bitcoin’s energy consumption a nonstarter. Moreover, the energy consumption of Bitcoin can easily be tracked and traced, which the same cannot be said of the other two sectors. Those who defend Bitcoin also note that the complex validation process creates a more secure transaction system, which justifies the energy usage.
Another point that Bitcoin proponents make is that the energy usage required by Bitcoin is all-inclusive such that it encompasess the process of creating, securing, using and transporting Bitcoin. Whereas with other financial sectors, this is not the case. For example, when calculating the carbon footprint of a payment processing system like Visa, they fail to calculate the energy required to print money or power ATMs, or smartphones, bank branches, security vehicles, among other components in the payment processing and banking supply chain.
What exactly are governments and nonprofits doing to reduce Bitcoin energy consumption? Earlier this year in the U.S., a congressional hearing was held on the topic where politicians and tech figures discussed the future of crypto mining in the U.S, specifically highlighting their concerns regarding fossil fuel consumption. Leaders also discussed the current debate surrounding the coal-to-crypto trend, particularly regarding the number of coal plants in New York and Pennsylvania that are in the process of being repurposed into mining farms.
Aside from congressional hearings, there are private sector crypto initiatives dedicated to solving environmental issues such as the Crypto Climate Accord and Bitcoin Mining Council. In fact, the Crypto Climate Accord proposes a plan to eliminate all greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, And, due to the innovative potential of Bitcoin, it is reasonable to believe that such grand plans may be achieved.
– GBP/EUR seen closer to 1.19 in 2026
– JPY faces notable structural headwinds
– USD to see a gradual decline
Image © Bank of England
The consensus prediction amongst investment bank analysts is that 2026 will be characterised by further underperformance of pound sterling.
“We’re happy to take the other side of that,” says Adarsh Sinha, FX and Rates Strategist at Bank of America, in a media briefing Thursday, in which he introduced his team’s key themes and forecasts for the coming year.
He opined that consensus year-ahead views tend to get burned out pretty early in any given year. Given this, ideas previously seen as contrarian can be adopted quickly as traders look for a new anchor.
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The pound is down 5% against the euro this year, and the consensus is extrapolating that trend into another year.
To be sure, BofA is also bullish on the euro’s prospects, but the single currency won’t outperform a pound that can shake off recent worries over the UK’s budget.
A sizeable premium was demanded of sterling heading into the November budget, with investors concerned the government would announce policies that would upset the bond markets.
Image is courtesy of Bank of America Global Research.

Now, with the budget having passed without drama, the pound is at a fork in the road: does that risk premium dissipate or does it become entrenched?
Bank of America thinks the former is the most likely: that premium can continue to lift, and the pound will recover as a result.
“This Budget has the buy-in from the OBR (who prepare macro forecasts for the Government) and the Chancellor has reinforced the commitment to keep the Fiscal Rule and raise the Fiscal Headroom. These are important anchors which should lead to a relief rally in GBP as the release valve of event risk has passed,” reads Bank of America’s year-ahead outlook.
BofA forecasts EUR/GBP at 0.84 by year-end, which gives a pound to euro conversion of 1.19.
Following on from the dollar’s largest annual decline since 2017, more weakness is in store next year, which makes for a GBP/USD year-end forecast of 1.45.
Of the Dollar, BofA says:
“We expect this trend to continue into 2026, albeit at a more moderate pace. Heading into next year, many of the same themes/conflicts in markets remain unresolved.”
Speaking to the media alongside Sinha was FX strategist Alex Cohen, who said a potential risk for the greenback is a building risk premium surrounding the role of the Federal Reserve and its independence.
“The administration is clearly discussing affordability,” Cohen said, adding that it’s looking at addressing the issue “through the lens of lower rates.”
Above: File image of Kevin Hassett. He’s a Trump ally, heavily favoured to replace Jerome Powell as Fed Chair. Copyright: U.S. Government Work.
Lower real rates, thanks to Fed rate reductions, and potential concerns over Fed functionality under a new Chair tied to White House policy, would pose headwinds to the dollar.
Another anti-consensus view adopted by BofA concerns the yen.
Yen upside is a strong consensus view for next year, largely on account of the Bank of Japan raising interest rates. However, BofA thinks the structural headwinds are too significant and they’re also happy to swim against the flow here.
“Japan is seeing structural outflows… Japan has been a cash-rich society for many years,” Sinha told journalists. “Inflation is no longer zero, and when inflation is no longer zero that’s a problem.”
Households and corporates are diversifying as cash is put to work, and most of that diversification is ex-Japan.
“As long as that continues, the yen will remain structurally weak,” says Sinha.
USD/JPY is forecast to end the year at 155.
Ted Hisokawa
Dec 06, 2025 06:29
MATIC price prediction shows potential recovery to $0.45 within 4-6 weeks despite current bearish momentum, with critical $0.35 support holding firm in near-term outlook.
Polygon (MATIC) finds itself at a critical juncture as December 2025 unfolds, with the token trading at $0.38 amid mixed technical signals and divergent analyst forecasts. While short-term momentum indicators flash bearish warnings, medium-term MATIC price prediction models suggest a potential recovery scenario that could reward patient investors.
• MATIC short-term target (1 week): $0.35-$0.42 range (-8% to +11%)
• Polygon medium-term forecast (1 month): $0.42-$0.50 range (+11% to +32%)
• Key level to break for bullish continuation: $0.42 resistance
• Critical support if bearish: $0.35 (immediate) / $0.33 (strong support)
The analytical community presents a notably fragmented view on Polygon’s immediate trajectory. Recent MATIC price prediction reports reveal a stark contrast between ultra-bearish AI models forecasting a dramatic decline to $0.105 (-72.4%) and more optimistic technical analysts targeting $0.42-$0.48 within the coming weeks.
The consensus among traditional analysts leans toward a Polygon forecast of gradual recovery, with multiple sources converging on the $0.45-$0.50 range for December 2025. Notably, Blockchain.News and Finality X both project similar upside targets, suggesting institutional alignment on medium-term price objectives despite current weakness.
Long-term projections remain decidedly bullish, with Benzinga’s $0.717 target for 2030 reflecting confidence in Polygon’s Layer-2 scaling fundamentals, while DigitalCoinPrice’s $0.94 forecast for 2027 indicates substantial upside potential for patient holders.
Current Polygon technical analysis reveals a token caught between competing forces. Trading at $0.38, MATIC sits precariously below all major moving averages, with the 20-day SMA at $0.43 serving as immediate resistance and the 200-day SMA at $0.69 highlighting the extent of the current correction from yearly highs.
The RSI reading of 38.00 places MATIC in neutral territory, suggesting neither oversold bounce conditions nor overbought distribution pressure. However, the MACD histogram at -0.0045 confirms bearish momentum persistence, while the Stochastic oscillators (%K: 25.19, %D: 19.74) indicate potential for further downside if support levels fail.
Bollinger Bands positioning reveals MATIC trading in the lower portion of the channel with a %B reading of 0.29, suggesting the token remains under distribution pressure but approaching potential reversal zones. The daily ATR of $0.03 indicates moderate volatility, providing manageable risk parameters for position entries.
The primary bullish MATIC price target centers on reclaiming the $0.42 resistance level, which aligns with multiple analyst projections and the 26-day EMA. A successful break above this threshold could trigger momentum toward the $0.45-$0.50 range within 2-4 weeks, representing 18-32% upside potential from current levels.
Technical confirmation for this Polygon forecast would require sustained volume above the recent average of $1.07 million, coupled with RSI advancement above 50 and positive MACD crossover. The Bollinger Band middle line at $0.43 serves as a secondary confirmation level for trend reversal.
Downside risks materialize if MATIC fails to hold the immediate $0.35 support level, potentially triggering a decline toward the strong support zone at $0.33. This scenario aligns with the more pessimistic analyst predictions and could result in 8-13% additional losses from current price levels.
A break below $0.33 would activate more severe downside targets, potentially validating the AI model predictions of deeper correction toward the $0.22-$0.30 range mentioned in recent forecasts.
For those considering whether to buy or sell MATIC, the current setup favors a cautious accumulation strategy with defined risk parameters. Optimal entry points exist in the $0.35-$0.38 range, with initial stop-loss placement below $0.33 to limit downside exposure.
A scaled entry approach proves most prudent given the mixed signals, allocating 40% of intended position size at current levels, 30% on any dip toward $0.35 support, and reserving 30% for potential breakout confirmation above $0.42.
Position sizing should account for the elevated volatility environment, with maximum allocation not exceeding 2-3% of portfolio value given the uncertain near-term outlook despite medium-term optimism.
The MATIC price prediction for December 2025 suggests a gradual recovery scenario with medium confidence, targeting the $0.45-$0.50 range within 4-6 weeks. While short-term bearish momentum creates downside risks to $0.33-$0.35, the broader Polygon forecast remains constructive based on fundamental Layer-2 adoption trends and technical oversold conditions.
Key indicators to monitor for prediction confirmation include RSI advancement above 45, MACD histogram turning positive, and most critically, sustained trading above the $0.42 resistance level. Failure to hold $0.35 support would invalidate the bullish thesis and suggest extended consolidation below current levels.
The timeline for this prediction spans 4-6 weeks, with initial signals expected within 7-10 days as MATIC approaches critical support and resistance levels that will determine the next directional move.
Image source: Shutterstock
XRP traders are watching the charts closely as emerging technical patterns and shifting sentiment signal a potential momentum reversal at a key support level.
Following a period of consolidation, XRP’s price movements are beginning to reflect classic reversal signals. Reduced volatility, measured buying activity, and observed chart patterns indicate that short-term directional changes may be emerging, though risks remain in a volatile crypto environment.
According to TradingView analyst Steph iscrypto, XRP’s 4-hour chart shows a double bottom pattern near the $1.80 support level, with two successful rebounds over recent sessions. This formation is often interpreted as an early indication of a potential bullish reversal if confirmed by subsequent price action.
As of December 4, 2025, XRP trades around $2.15 after a 4-hour double bottom near $1.80, signaling a potential bullish move toward $2.70–$3.10. Source: STEPH IS CRYPTO via X
As of December 4, 2025, at 14:00 UTC, XRP is trading at approximately $2.15. Analyst Steph is crypto notes that a sustained move above $2.22, confirmed by above-average volume, would be necessary to validate the pattern. If confirmed, measured move calculations suggest a potential resistance near $2.70.
It is important to note that the double bottom scenario carries risk. A failure to hold $2.00 support would invalidate the pattern, indicating that the broader downtrend could persist.
Despite the double bottom formation, broader market data shows continued downward pressure on XRP today. According to TradingView XRP/USDT chart data as of December 5, 2025, the price remains around $2.09, unable to sustain rebounds above intermediate resistance.
Spot market flows reported by Santiment indicate approximately $1.5 million in net outflows on December 5, reflecting steady distribution rather than panic selling. This lack of new capital inflows highlights the importance of monitoring liquidity to assess the sustainability of any bullish momentum.

XRP/USDT is trading sideways under the $2.5–$3.0 bearish order block, with neutral RSI and weak MACD, keeping the short-term bias neutral to bearish until a clear break confirms direction. Source: tomas_jntx on TradingView
Additional technical metrics reinforce caution. Open interest in XRP futures decreased by 4.37%, while RSI remains near the mid-40 range and MACD shows minimal upward momentum. Historical analysis suggests that these readings typically indicate weak trend conviction and a neutral-to-bearish short-term outlook.
Sentiment analysis provides a nuanced perspective on XRP’s near-term outlook. According to Santiment’s Fear & Greed Index, XRP reached one of its highest fear levels since October 2025, suggesting investor caution.

XRP’s social sentiment has dropped to its lowest since October 2025, entering a “fear zone” that historically signals potential bullish reversals. Source: DustyBC Crypto via X
Historically, sentiment extremes have coincided with short-term price recoveries. Santiment data shows that a similar spike in bearish sentiment on November 21, 2025, preceded a 22% price rebound within three days. While past performance does not guarantee future results, behavioral finance research—including studies in the Journal of Behavioral Finance (2020)—supports the idea that market mispricing can occur during periods of heightened fear.
Traders should interpret these signals as informational rather than predictive. Market response depends on upcoming flows, macroeconomic conditions, and regulatory developments affecting Ripple and XRP.
Long-term XRP projections remain diverse. A monthly chart pattern highlighted by crypto analyst Jainam Mehta shows a potential bullish flag, suggesting a measured technical target of $15. Mehta notes that institutional demand, including ETF-related accumulation, could affect available liquidity but emphasizes that this target is speculative and contingent on confirmed technical breakouts.

XRP’s monthly chart shows a bullish flag, with potential targets from $5–$25 up to $500+ under extreme supply and institutional scenarios. Source: Soul_Investments on TradingView
Conversely, other analysts maintain a cautious stance. Observations show that the $2.40–$3.00 zone continues to act as a bearish order block. Technical readings, such as RSI near 50 and minimal MACD divergence, indicate limited momentum, suggesting that upside potential remains constrained until the resistance cluster is decisively breached.
Traders and observers should focus on the following levels for context on XRP price dynamics:
$2.00 support: Psychological and technical floor that has held since November 2025. Breach could expose $1.88 and $1.72 as potential liquidity zones.
$2.22 resistance: Short-term breakout level linked to the double bottom pattern.
$2.30–$2.40 resistance cluster: A reclaim here would suggest the first meaningful structural shift in months.
$2.70 target: Measured move objective from the confirmed double bottom; remains contingent on sustained volume and technical confirmation.

XRP was trading at around 2.06, down 4.49% in the last 24 hours at press time. Source: XRP price via Brave New Coin
Until these levels are decisively tested, XRP remains in a structurally cautious state, with the market awaiting clear directional signals. Investors and traders should balance the technical insights with ongoing monitoring of liquidity flows, regulatory news, and broader macro conditions.
BitcoinWorld
DappRadar Shutdown: The Alarming End of a Crypto Data Giant
The cryptocurrency world received shocking news today as DappRadar, one of the most trusted data platforms in the space, announced its imminent DappRadar shutdown. This unexpected development leaves thousands of users and developers wondering about the future of decentralized application analytics.
Financial challenges forced the DappRadar shutdown decision. The platform confirmed that economic pressures made continued operations unsustainable. However, the company promised to share separate announcements about its DAO structure and the RADAR token’s future.
This DappRadar shutdown highlights the ongoing challenges facing crypto data providers. Many platforms struggle to maintain profitability despite growing user bases. The announcement came as a surprise to the community that relied on DappRadar for accurate dapp statistics and market insights.
The immediate effects of the DappRadar shutdown include:
Regular users now face the challenge of finding alternative platforms for tracking decentralized applications. The DappRadar shutdown creates a significant gap in the crypto analytics landscape that other providers will need to fill.
The upcoming DappRadar shutdown raises important questions about the RADAR token’s future. The platform specifically mentioned that details about the token would follow in separate communications. Token holders should watch for official announcements regarding:
This aspect of the DappRadar shutdown requires careful attention from investors and community members. The token’s value and utility could see significant changes following the platform’s closure.
With the DappRadar shutdown approaching, users need to explore other options. Several platforms offer similar services, though each has unique strengths. The crypto community will likely see increased competition as other providers try to fill the void left by DappRadar’s departure.
The DappRadar shutdown serves as a reminder about the volatility of crypto projects. Even established platforms face challenges in this rapidly evolving space. Users should always diversify their information sources and stay informed about multiple analytics providers.
The DappRadar shutdown marks the end of an era for crypto analytics. This development underscores the importance of sustainable business models in the blockchain space. While disappointing, it also creates opportunities for new platforms to emerge and innovate.
The crypto community will watch closely as details about the DAO and RADAR token emerge. The DappRadar shutdown teaches valuable lessons about project sustainability and the need for diversified data sources in the decentralized ecosystem.
The exact shutdown date hasn’t been specified, but the announcement indicates operations will cease soon. Users should backup any important data immediately.
The platform promised separate announcements about the RADAR token. Holders should monitor official channels for updates about token utility and future plans.
This remains unclear. The announcement didn’t specify if historical data will be preserved or transferred elsewhere.
Yes, several alternatives exist including DeFi Pulse, State of the Dapps, and various blockchain-specific explorers. However, each platform has different focus areas and data coverage.
While not specified in detail, likely factors include reduced crypto market activity, increased competition, and challenges in monetizing data services effectively.
The future of the DAO structure will be addressed in upcoming separate announcements according to the shutdown notice.
Found this analysis helpful? Share this important update about the DappRadar shutdown with fellow crypto enthusiasts on your social media channels. Help others stay informed about this significant development in the blockchain analytics space.
To learn more about the latest cryptocurrency trends, explore our article on key developments shaping blockchain data platforms and their future evolution.
This post DappRadar Shutdown: The Alarming End of a Crypto Data Giant first appeared on BitcoinWorld.
A failed move keeps gold trapped inside a five-day tight range between $4,164 and $4,264. The rising 10-day average at $4,186—successfully defended this week—remains the primary near-term dynamic support alongside this week’s $4,164 low. As long as gold holds above the 10-day line, the bias stays bullish.
A daily close above Thursday’s $4,219 high would show minor strength, but true breakout validation requires settlement above last week’s high and the six-week peak at $4,245. A decisive push and sustained trade above $4,264 is ultimately needed to prove buyers are back in charge.
The recent correction ended with a higher swing low at $3,886, followed by a repeating sequence: inside week to upside breakout to inside week to upside breakout. This week has deviated slightly with a very narrow range mostly near last week’s highs instead of a fresh advance, yet the relative strength is clear, and gold is on track for its third-highest weekly close in history.
Friday’s bounce off the 10-day average reinforces its short-term importance. Should it fail, the 20-day average at $4,144—currently converging with the late-November uptrend line—steps up as the next significant dynamic defense.
Gold continues flashing higher-price potential, but momentum remains conspicuously absent. Hold the 10-day average and deliver a close above $4,241–$4,245 to keep the bull case intact and target $4,264+; failure to do so risks another leg lower toward the 20-day/trendline confluence while the larger uptrend stays safe with price above the 50-day average, now at $4,076.
For a look at all of today’s economic events, check out our economic calendar.