**Solana** (SOL) has seen a significant rise in price, gaining over 16% in the past week. This surge is attributed to the recent applications for **spot ETFs** tracking Solana's price in the US. **VanEck** and **21Shares** have filed applications with the SEC, following the success of **Bitcoin** (BTC) and **Ethereum** (ETH) spot ETFs. Solana's trading volume has also jumped 50%, making it the third most traded cryptocurrency, excluding stablecoins. The potential for **Solana spot ETFs** in the US market is driving this bullish momentum.

Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>) is on the ascendancy amid fresh applications for the first-ever exchange-traded funds tracking the coin&#039;s spot price in the U.S.
What Happened: The fifth-largest digital asset by market cap spiked 6.4% in the last 24 hours, exceeding the gains of Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>).&nbsp;
Solana&#039;s trading volume jumped 50% to $1.68 billion, becoming the third-most traded cryptocurrency, excluding stablecoins, in the last 24 hours.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39359780/dogecoin-shiba-inu-floki-are-dino-coins-says-trader-he-likes-these-3-other-meme-coins-as-b?itm_source=parsely-api"> ...</a><a href=https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39567061/solana-soars-16-over-7-days-outpacing-bitcoin-and-ethereum-over-etf-application-momentum-m alt=Solana Soars 16% Over 7 Days, Outpacing Bitcoin And Ethereum Over ETF Application Momentum — More Applications To Follow?>Full story available on Benzinga.com</a>

Loading...Loading...Solana SOL/USD is on the ascendancy amid fresh applications for the first-ever exchange-traded funds tracking the coin's spot price in the U.S.What Happened: The fifth-largest digital asset by market cap spiked 6.4% in the last 24 hours, exceeding the gains of Bitcoin BTC/USD and Ethereum ETH/USD. Solana's trading volume jumped 50% to $1.68 billion, becoming the third-most traded cryptocurrency, excluding stablecoins, in the last 24 hours.See Also: ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’ Author Robert Kiyosaki Questions Bitcoin ETFs’ Authenticity: ‘ETFs Are Fake Gold, Silver, Or Bitcoin’Solana’s weekly gains increased to 16.59%, one of the strongest among large-cap cryptocurrencies. Why It Matters: The latest bullish impetus has been provided by applications for spot ETFs for Solana. After VanEck kicked off the race last week by becoming the first asset manager to file for such an investment avenue in the U.S., 21Shares followed suit with its application with the SEC.Spot cryptocurrency ETFs in the U.S. have been broadly successful, with Bitcoin BTC/USD recording a 36% jump in price after its funds started trading in early January. Ethereum ETH/USD is also days away from getting listed in U.S. exchanges, pending approval from the SEC. Price Action: At the time of writing, SOL was exchanging hands at $147.55, surging 6.4% in the last 24 hours, according to data from Benzinga ProRead Next: SEC Files Lawsuit Against Consensys Over Unregistered Brokerage ActivitiesMarket News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Solana Soars 16% Over 7 Days, Outpacing Bitcoin And Ethereum Over ETF Application Momentum — More  Applications To Follow?

Solana Surges 16% on ETF Application Momentum

The discussion of a federal **Bitcoin reserve** has moved from a fringe idea to serious policy debate amid growing debt pressures and Bitcoin's expanding role in global finance. Advocates say the U.S. needs new tools because old fiscal policies aren't working, while critics remain skeptical that digital assets can deliver significant relief.

The proposal sits at the crossroads of economics, politics, and long-term planning. It marks a shift in how governments assess value, reserves, and national security in the digital economy.

## What 200K BTC as a Strategic Reserve Means

![real bitcoins with a value higher than hundreds of dollars in bills.](https://247wallst.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/shutterstock-1305917734-huge-licensed-scaled.jpg)

The U.S. Bitcoin reserve proposal centers on scale, funding structure, and asset storage. The government's current plans mirror how gold and oil reserves were built in past decades.

**Senator Cynthia Lummis introduced the BITCOIN Act in March 2025**, proposing 200,000 BTC purchases annually. This would give the government 1 million BTC over five years, equaling about 5% of all circulating Bitcoin. That would place the U.S. ahead of every sovereign holder and most private institutions.

The funding model draws on three sources: seized Bitcoin already in federal custody, annual Federal Reserve profits, and accounting gains from revaluing gold certificates. These mechanisms support Bitcoin accumulation without raising taxes or issuing new debt.

The Treasury Department would hold the Bitcoin using a secure, multi-signature system spread across federal agencies and offline cold storage facilities. That protects the assets from hacks while allowing Congress and the public to verify holdings through regular audits.

## Why a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Entered the Debate

![Bitcoin and U.S. Economy - Cryptocurrency Market Growth with American Influence](https://247wallst.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/shutterstock-2603984411-huge-licensed-scaled.jpg)

Bitcoin entered national policy conversations for three reasons: traditional debt tools are failing, institutional adoption has strengthened Bitcoin's credibility, and history shows governments turn to new assets when old systems fail.

### The U.S. Debt Problem Has Outgrown Traditional Tools

The **federal debt** reached levels that traditional approaches can't manage. As of early December 2025, the national debt stands at $38.40 trillion, growing at $6 billion per day. Interest payments are rising faster than revenues, and political gridlock leaves Washington stuck between unpopular cuts and stalled tax reforms.

With debt at 122.6% of GDP and interest costs exceeding $1 trillion annually, policymakers are searching for alternatives. Bitcoin's fixed 21 million coin supply appeals to those who distrust inflation-heavy strategies and see hard-capped assets as a hedge against fiscal erosion.

### Bitcoin's Maturing Market Makes the Idea Less Extreme

Bitcoin's place in institutional finance has shifted. **ETFs** drew billions in inflows, major banks offer custody, and regulatory barriers that once blocked involvement have fallen. Corporations and governments now hold significant Bitcoin positions, pushing it into the category of long-term strategic assets.

This credibility gives the reserve conversation weight. The U.S. government already holds approximately 200,000 BTC from criminal and civil asset forfeitures, making it the largest known nation-state holder.

### Historical Precedents Show New Eras Create New Reserve Assets

The U.S. has long used strategic reserves to protect economic stability. Gold, oil, and foreign currencies all became reserve tools during moments of upheaval and changing geopolitical realities. Other nations built large gold stockpiles to reduce currency risk.

Bitcoin could become the next asset in that toolkit as the global economy is becoming more digital, interconnected, and exposed to financial sanctions.

## How a Bitcoin Reserve Would Actually Work: The Reality Check

![Golden bitcoin arrow and index on dark background. Cryptocurrency and financial growth concept.](https://247wallst.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/shutterstock-2505792229-huge-licensed-scaled.jpg)

The push for a national Bitcoin reserve sounds bold. But the debate comes down to numbers, policy shifts, and changing market structures.

### The Economic Realities That Limit Bitcoin's Debt-Paydown Power

The numbers tell the real story. **The U.S. adds approximately $6 billion in debt daily**, dwarfing even aggressive Bitcoin appreciation scenarios. A 1 million BTC reserve growing by $50 billion a year barely registers against this scale.

Volatility creates another barrier. Bitcoin can swing 30% in a quarter. This makes it unsuitable for budgeting or interest payment planning. Selling during downturns locks in losses, while selling during peaks invites political backlash.

Liquidity constraints deepen the challenge. Liquidating hundreds of thousands of BTC would push prices down sharply, cutting the reserve's value as it's sold. Even a reserve worth $200 billion on paper might net half that in practice. Bitcoin may strengthen a balance sheet, but it can't serve as a reliable debt-paydown tool.

### Potential Benefits Outside Debt Reduction

A Bitcoin reserve may not fix the debt problem, but it opens doors to real advantages. **Domestic mining gets the biggest boost**. Consistent Federal Reserve demand would give miners steadier revenue expectations and encourage expansion. That supports U.S. energy development, especially in regions investing in renewables. It strengthens America's position in a sector where North America already leads global output.

A national reserve also signals the U.S. intends to compete in digital assets. That matters for fintech, banking, and blockchain companies trying to grow in a clearer regulatory environment. It tells global markets that U.S. firms are backed by policy rather than hindered by uncertainty.

The reserve would also accelerate innovation. Custody research, security upgrades, and university programs would benefit from federal interest. That builds an ecosystem that extends well beyond Bitcoin.

## Will 200K BTC Meaningfully Reduce the National Debt?

Using Bitcoin to ease national debt sounds smart, but the numbers show clear limits. The U.S. faces a **$38.40 trillion debt load with over $1 trillion in annual interest payments**. Even a large Bitcoin reserve barely moves that scale.

At current valuations around **$90,000-$100,000 per BTC**, 200,000 BTC covers only a fraction of annual interest costs. Even 1 million BTC would reduce total debt by less than 1%.

Supporters see it differently. Bitcoin appreciates faster than the dollar loses value. That could help reduce borrowing needs during strong market cycles and improve balance-sheet confidence during currency stress.

Bitcoin won't fix the debt crisis, but a growing reserve could offer long-term financial breathing room. The reserve would introduce an asset that can grow over decades, support key industries, and strengthen the country's position in digital finance.

Can 200K BTC strategic reserve annually pay down national debt? Analysis shows limits but potential benefits for US economy.

Can 200K Bitcoin Annually Actually Solve America's $38 Trillion Debt Crisis?

## Trump's Executive Order on AI Regulation

Former President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to issue an **executive order** that would establish a **single federal rule** for regulating artificial intelligence (AI) across the United States. This move aims to **prevent individual US states** from creating their own regulations for tech groups, which could lead to a fragmented regulatory landscape.

### Opposition from Republican Senators

Despite the push for federal uniformity, the initiative is facing **opposition from some Republican senators**. They argue that state-level regulations might be necessary to address local concerns and that a one-size-fits-all approach could stifle innovation or overlook regional issues.

### Implications for the Tech and Crypto Industries

This development has significant implications for the **technology sector**, including **cryptocurrency and blockchain projects** that increasingly integrate AI. A unified federal rule could provide **regulatory clarity** and reduce compliance costs for companies operating across state lines. However, it might also centralize control and limit state autonomy in tech governance.

### Broader Context

The debate over AI regulation is part of a larger conversation about **government oversight of emerging technologies**. As AI continues to evolve and intersect with fields like **crypto, finance, and data privacy**, the outcome of this executive order could set a precedent for how future technologies are regulated in the US.

### Potential Impact on Innovation

Proponents of the executive order believe that a **consistent regulatory framework** will encourage investment and innovation by eliminating uncertainty. Critics, however, warn that it could hinder adaptive responses to AI's rapid development and diverse applications.

Move to prevent individual US states from regulating tech groups opposed by some Republican senators

Trump's AI Regulation Executive Order: A Game-Changer for Tech and Crypto?

**ZKsync has announced plans to deprecate ZKsync Lite, the original zero-knowledge rollup launched on Ethereum in 2020, by 2026.** This move marks a significant shift in the Layer 2 scaling landscape as the team consolidates its focus on newer technologies.

### What is ZKsync Lite?
ZKsync Lite, originally known as ZKsync 1.0, went live in June 2020 as a payments-focused Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution. It supported token transfers, atomic swaps, and NFT minting but lacked smart contract functionality, which limited its utility compared to more advanced rollup designs. According to ZKsync, this system served as a **groundbreaking proof-of-concept** that validated critical ideas for building production ZK systems on Ethereum.

### Why the Deprecation?
In a post on X, ZKsync stated, "This is a planned, orderly sunset for a system that has served its purpose and does not affect any other ZKsync systems." The team will share concrete details, dates, and migration guidance in the coming year. Funds remain safe, with withdrawals to Layer 1 continuing to work throughout the process. Data from L2BEAT shows approximately **$50 million in user funds** still bridged to ZKsync Lite, though the network now processes fewer than 200 daily operations.

### Transition to ZKsync Era and Beyond
Matter Labs, the company behind ZKsync, halted active development on ZKsync Lite in March 2023 when it launched **ZKsync Era**, a full-featured zkEVM capable of running arbitrary smart contracts. This was hailed as the "Holy Grail of scaling Ethereum," allowing developers to port existing applications without sacrificing security. ZKsync emphasized that the deprecation does not impact its other products, with future steps focusing on systems built with the **ZK Stack, Prividiums, and the broader ZKsync network**.

### Current Challenges for ZKsync
The announcement comes during a challenging period for ZKsync. The network recently sunset its Ignite liquidity rewards program due to bearish market conditions, and the Aave DAO is considering deprecating its deployment on ZKsync Era because of low revenue generation. These developments highlight the evolving competitive pressures in the Layer 2 space.

As ZKsync phases out its pioneering rollup, the crypto community watches closely to see how this transition will shape the future of Ethereum scaling and zero-knowledge technology.

ZKsync plans to consolidate its focus on systems built with the ZK Stack, Prividiums, and the broader ZKsync network after sunsetting ZKsync Lite.

ZKsync to Sunset ZKsync Lite in 2026: The End of Ethereum's First ZK Rollup Era

Bitcoin's ongoing price correction has been accompanied by several negative developments that continue to grab investors' attention. Most recently, market analyst Darkfost has observed a significant crash in Bitcoin spot trading volume, while highlighting potential long-term implications of such an event.

## Binance Records $40B Loss in BTC Monthly Spot Trading

The spot trading volume refers to the total amount of Bitcoin that is bought and sold for immediate delivery on exchanges within a specific time period. It is a key market indicator used to gauge participation, liquidity, and investor interest. According to Darkfost in an [X post](https://x.com/Darkfost_Coc/status/1997264915132821928?s=20) on December 6, the Bitcoin market, in November, experienced a major fall in spot trading volume across major crypto exchanges. This development has been attributed to the asset's price struggles, wherein it recorded a 17.5% devaluation during this period.

On Binance, which accounts for more than half of all Bitcoin spot trading activity, spot volume fell from $198 billion in October to $156 billion in November, representing a **21% decline**. The downturn was mirrored across other major exchanges, with ByBit posting a 13.5% drop, Gate.io sliding 33%, and OKX down 18%.

![Bitcoin](https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G7ezhr3WsAA2xaR?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)
*Source: @Darkfost_Coc on X*

Interestingly, Darkfost explains that Bitcoin's recent price action, the major negative catalyst, pales in comparison to previous corrections. However, another red reading in December could initiate a market deterioration marked by conditions such as continued selling pressure, low market confidence, and, importantly, further drops in spot activity.

A continuous decline in spot trading volume primarily mirrors a lack of market interest and is accompanied by other concerning factors, such as a weaker demand, high vulnerability to price swings, and limited support for rallies as investors prefer to sit on the sidelines. This dynamic, in turn, weighs on price growth, creating a **self-reinforcing bearish loop**.

## Spot Trading Volume Peak Sees Consistent Regression

In related news, Darkfost also reports that the present market cycle has featured a consistent decline in spot trading volume peaks. Notably, the chart above shows a market high of $333.57 billion on Binance in March 2024, followed by the lower peak of $246.04 billion in November 2024, and then just $198.6 billion last October.

This trend becomes even more concerning when looking at the spot-to-futures volume ratio, which currently sits at 0.23, meaning futures activity now accounts for more than 75% of overall trading. In essence, while the Bitcoin market remains active, investor enthusiasm on the spot side is fading. By contrast, traders appear increasingly willing to speculate in the futures market, likely driven by elevated uncertainty and short-term volatility.

At press time, Bitcoin trades at $89,300, reflecting a 0.21% loss in the past day.

<iframe src="https://www.tradingview.com/x/9USHczvI/" width="1564" height="926"></iframe>
*BTC valued at $89,308 on the daily chart | Source: [BTCUSDT chart on Tradingview.com](https://www.tradingview.com/chart/xg17RJqK/)*

Market analyst Darkfost has observed a recent crash in Bitcoin spot trading volume, while highlighting potential long-term implications of such an event. 

Bitcoin Spot Trading Volume Plummets 21% in November: Is a Bearish Loop Looming?

The launch of ChatGPT on November 30, 2022, marked a pivotal moment in technology and finance, igniting a three-year AI wave that continues to shape markets. This surge has propelled the rise of AI cryptocurrencies, with investors seeking high-beta opportunities in this dynamic sector. Now, as we look ahead to 2026, a new project, **DeepSnitch AI**, is poised to revolutionize the crypto landscape with its advanced technology and immense market potential.

## Bitcoin's Divergence with Nasdaq Signals a Long Recovery

True AI coins are those with genuine use cases, not just an "AI" label. These projects have attracted significant capital and show a strong correlation with the Nasdaq, the benchmark index for the AI wave. Interestingly, a recent analysis highlights that when Bitcoin's trajectory diverges from the Nasdaq's, it often leads to market lows, followed by prolonged recoveries. This pattern suggests that a Bitcoin recovery could benefit the entire crypto market, particularly the AI segment.

![Chart showing Bitcoin-Nasdaq divergence](https://blockchainreporter.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chart374-1024x565.webp)
*The analysis notes that sharp divergences between BTC and Nasdaq historically precede Bitcoin long-term recoveries. Source: CoinDesk.*

## AI Tokens to Watch in 2026

### DeepSnitch AI (DSNT)

**DeepSnitch AI** stands out as a game-changer in the AI crypto space. Unlike many projects that use AI peripherally, DeepSnitch AI integrates AI as the core of its system, employing agents to generate business intelligence from crypto data. This approach aims to provide actionable insights for investors, empowering them in volatile markets.

The project's massive potential is already evident in its rapid presale, raising over $670k in just the second stage. With an entry price of $0.02629 and bonuses of 50% for $2k purchases and 100% for $5k purchases, the upside is substantial, potentially leading to exponential returns.

<iframe title="⚠️🚨 DeepSnitch AI Official Warning: Don’t Fall for Fake Websites!🚫" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/djEyt7U_1rY?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>

![DeepSnitch AI presale banner](https://blockchainreporter.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/deepsnitch6.webp)

### Render (RENDER)

**Render** is a top AI coin due to its real-world use case in GPU computing power. Since ChatGPT's launch, its price surged 28x to an all-time high of $13.53. Although it has declined this year, it has established strong support around $1.70, presenting a buying opportunity at a dip.

### Beldex (BDX)

**Beldex** is recognized among leading AI cryptocurrencies for its AI-enhanced technology, primarily focused on privacy transactions. Its price has risen 40% from its year-low, with a clear upward trend over the past five months, positioning it to thrive as long as the AI wave continues.

![DeepSnitch AI promotion](https://blockchainreporter.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/deepsnitch7.webp)

## FAQs

### Could Render reach $2 soon?
Yes, given its strong support at $1.70, reaching $2 is a likely scenario.

### What places Beldex among the best AI coins?
Its effective use of AI technology for its privacy-focused platform.

### Why does DeepSnitch AI take AI coins to the next level?
Because its AI implementation is central to its mission of empowering investors, not just an add-on feature.

*This article is for educational purposes only and not financial advice.*

The best AI coins for 2026 are those that can keep riding the AI wave, and DeepSnitch AI is the one with the greatest potential to go farther and explode 100x.

Solana Surges 16% on ETF Application Momentum

Summary:

Solana (SOL) has risen over 16% in the past week.

The surge is driven by applications for Solana spot ETFs in the US.

VanEck and 21Shares have filed applications with the SEC.

Solana's trading volume has increased by 50%, making it the third most traded cryptocurrency, excluding stablecoins.

The potential for Solana spot ETFs is fueling this bullish trend.

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