Stormrake - Insights #BTC 2025

The Rake Review: September 2025

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:12:56 +1000

The Calm Before Q4’s Big Move

September has wrapped up. Bitcoin fought through historical stigmas, liquidations, and manipulation to close green. A new narrative dominated headlines and shook the space, while fresh signs of adoption continue to emerge. Through it all, Bitcoin held firm and September has now set the stage for October.

Driven by Expectations and Historical Patterns

We’ve just wrapped up Bitcoin’s historically worst month of the year, September. And much like the rest of 2025 so far, it was mixed. Both bulls and bears had their moments in the sun, but by the end of it, Bitcoin once again fought its way back on top.

The dominant narrative this year has been interest rates. Off the back of 2024, where we saw a full 100bps cut between September and December, markets began pricing in the potential for up to five rate cuts in 2025. That idea fuelled rallies across all risk-on assets. Fast forward to today, and with only two decisions left on the calendar, it’s clear there won’t be five cuts. But despite that, markets have still pushed to new all-time highs across multiple sectors.

After months of pressure, including criticism from the US President, Powell and the Federal Reserve finally made the call to cut rates. While the actual cut didn’t move price much on the day, the signal was loud and clear. The door is now open. We already saw a preview of this at Jackson Hole in August, where Powell hinted at a shift in policy for the upcoming September meeting. Markets responded with strength. With two more cuts still expected, the final quarter of the year could carry serious potential for further all-time highs and broad risk-on strength.

When it comes to price manipulation, Bitcoin is no stranger. Large exchanges and institutions regularly push price in a certain direction to trigger liquidations on leveraged positions. This is often done to collect additional fees or to drive price lower for better entries before a reversal. These moves aren’t sustainable because they’re not driven by genuine buying or selling interest. Instead, they’re often triggered by large players temporarily moving price to force liquidations, not to establish long-term positions.

Over the past year, we’ve seen several brutal liquidation days, mostly targeting overleveraged longs. While 2025 hasn’t seen as many as previous years, December 2024 still had multiple days with over $1 billion in liquidations. The largest came in at $1.8 billion, which triggered a 6% drop in Bitcoin. Fast forward to this September, we saw two more days in the same week with over $1 billion wiped from the market. The biggest was on the 22nd, when $1.7 billion was liquidated. But this time, the reaction was far more muted. Bitcoin dropped less than 2.5%.

To put that into context, the FTX collapse in 2022 triggered $1.5 billion in liquidations over six days, and Bitcoin dropped nearly 30%. That comparison highlights how far the market has matured. Institutional adoption and deeper liquidity mean that multi-billion dollar liquidation events now have a reduced impact on price.

As Bitcoin continues to grow, these events will likely have less and less influence on daily price action. But manipulation will always remain. The main takeaway is that these liquidation pullbacks continue to present prime opportunities to accumulate. Because no matter how wild things get in the short term, Bitcoin’s long-term direction hasn’t changed — it still moves up and to the right.

Bull Markets Are Fuelled by Narratives

Bull markets are driven by narratives, whether in crypto or traditional markets. These narratives can be sector-focused or broad market-wide themes, but they all drive price action. Investors chase the hottest stories, and that chase fuels momentum and outsized performance. Once one narrative fades, another takes its place. It’s a cycle within a cycle.

Some of the strongest bull markets have been powered by genuine macro narratives. In 2021, we saw the post-pandemic stimulus era take hold. Government handouts and free-flowing capital didn’t just pump stock and crypto markets — they sent everything into bull mode. The current bull run, while slightly different, is no less powerful. Some argue it’s a tech and AI-driven rally in traditional markets, while others point to Bitcoin’s breakout being led by institutional adoption. Both are true, but the foundation of this entire move is simple: the money printer is back, inflation remains sticky, and investors are looking for alternative vehicles to generate returns and preserve wealth.

The bull run out of the pandemic and the current one share a common core — easy money and systemic macro pressure. As Bitcoin matures, its correlation with these broader macro themes continues to strengthen.

Not every narrative is shared across asset classes. That’s nothing new. Narratives have always defined market cycles, and the history of the S&P 500 is proof of that. Bitcoin is still young and hasn’t lived through even a fraction of what traditional markets have experienced. Traditional markets have seen cycles shaped by tech dominance after the GFC, the Dot-Com boom, post-war economic expansions and the Reagan bull market. Even now, gold is leading in performance and that strength is flowing into gold miners and related equities.

Crypto has had its own defining cycles too. In 2013, Bitcoin’s “digital gold” and “safe haven” status took off during the Cyprus banking crisis. Google searches spiked 10x, and Bitcoin rallied 5x on the back of it. In 2017, the ICO craze drove altcoins and Ethereum to dizzying heights.

This current crypto bull run has had no shortage of narratives either. It started with the Bitcoin ETF rumours and eventual approvals, which helped drive further institutional adoption. Then the narrative shifted to inflation and the macro setup. From there, sector-specific rallies began to break out. Solana pushed to new highs off the back of the memecoin casino in January. AI-focused projects like FET (now ASI) and Bittensor (TAO) caught strong bids. Ethereum and its broader ecosystem also saw renewed attention as institutions began building and adopting ETH-native infrastructure.

And then came a new narrative.

The headlines in September were dominated by one theme — Decentralised Exchanges (DEXes). Earlier in the year, Hyperliquid launched its token and quickly made waves, establishing itself as a top 20 crypto by market cap and capturing a large share of onchain DEX users. But September saw a shift. Aster, a new DEX built on Binance Smart Chain and backed by major players in the space, exploded onto the scene.

The result was a major user migration from Hyperliquid to Aster as the hype built. ASTER rallied from under $0.02 to over $2.40 in under two weeks, while HYPE fell over 30% after setting a new all-time high earlier in the month. Aster’s explosive launch also had a ripple effect on BNB, the native token of Binance Smart Chain, which hit an all-time high off the back of increased onchain activity.

The question now is whether Aster can hold the momentum. Hyperliquid has already established itself as a long-term player. If Aster can maintain its user base and liquidity, it could shape up to be the one-two punch in the DEX space.

This was a clear sector-driven narrative within the broader market. Looking ahead, the next narrative is already forming — interest rate cuts and the historical strength of Q4, which has consistently been the most bullish quarter for risk-on assets.

September Holds Strong, Uptober Now in Focus

Heading into September, Bitcoin was under pressure. Bears were out in force, calling for the end of the bull market, and history was on their side. September is Bitcoin’s worst-performing month on record. Most would have bet on a red monthly close. But once again, Bitcoin proved the doubters wrong, closing the month green and up 5%, despite late-month pressure from liquidations and expiring options.

Even with that bearish backdrop and sentiment, Bitcoin held its ground. Now it is preparing for the most bullish period of the year — Uptober and the fourth quarter. October ranks as Bitcoin’s fourth-best month by average return at 15.2%, but it stands out as the most commonly green month, with only four red Octobers since 2011.

In addition to seasonality, October is expected to bring the penultimate rate cut of the year. As of writing, there is a 90% chance of a 25 bps cut. While the market may already be anticipating it, the fact that it is happening adds another bullish catalyst to what is shaping up to be a strong month for risk-on assets.

Source: https://www.tradingview.com/x/zRfohOjE/

Looking at the current technical picture, Bitcoin is closing out September in a relatively neutral stance. Momentum is sideways, and structure is in no man’s land, with a lower high and a higher low forming the present range. This setup gives both bulls and bears a clean shot at taking control in October. However, historical performance and macro catalysts suggest the bulls are more likely to come out on top. If Bitcoin simply matches its average return for October, price would break to a new all-time high above $131,000.

Although September may have felt like a flat or slightly bearish month, the reality is that it was quietly bullish. And now, as we enter the most favourable time of the year, the opportunity is still there. Bitcoin is trading at a near 10% discount from its all-time high, and many altcoins are offering even deeper discounts.

You do not want to be caught bearish or sidelined going into this stretch. Time and time again, investors who wait end up buying higher or missing the move altogether. The setup is clear, and the playbook has not changed.

And we have not even talked about November yet. With an average return of 40.5%, that discussion is for the next Rake Review

In the News:

FTX Creditor Payouts Underway at Discounted Rates:

FTX has announced the third round of creditor repayments, with $1.6 billion set to be returned to users. These repayments are based on the 2022 valuations of the lost assets, not current market prices.

To illustrate:

Bitcoin: $30,000 per BTC
Solana: $30 per SOL
Ethereum: $3,900 per ETH

This means anyone who lost 1 BTC will only receive $30,000, even though Bitcoin trades significantly higher today. For Bitcoin and Solana holders, the haircut is substantial. Ethereum holders are slightly better off, given ETH has largely moved sideways over the past few years.

What matters now is what recipients decide to do with the funds. Some may take the opportunity to re-enter the market, others may remain in cash. Either way, this fresh injection of liquidity has the potential to act as a tailwind for crypto. If even a portion of that capital flows back into Bitcoin or the broader market, it could help sustain the momentum heading into Q4.

Wall Street Embraces Tokenisation:

NASDAQ has announced that it has filed with the US SEC to allow tokenised trading of stocks and ETFs. This move has sparked a wave of optimism, providing confidence that traditional finance is beginning to incorporate Web3 elements into its offerings.

Tokenised equities would allow investors to purchase fractions of stocks, similar to how one can buy fractions of a Bitcoin. This is a key barrier being removed for smaller retail investors. If approved, this would further legitimise the crypto space and open the door for deeper institutional and traditional flows into digital asset ecosystems.

The pendulum has now swung the other way and there may be no turning back. If this gets the green light, expect a strong move in crypto markets as this narrative shift takes hold.

US Government Shutdown Imminent Amid Political Deadlock:

The month looks set to end with a US government shutdown, following stalled bipartisan negotiations over spending cuts, border security, and policy amendments. No continuing resolution has been passed, and prediction markets are now pricing in an 85% to 86% chance of a shutdown as lawmakers return to Capitol Hill amid heightened political tension.

A shutdown is a partial halt of non-essential federal operations, triggered when Congress fails to approve funding legislation. So what does this mean for markets?

Risk-on assets may face heightened volatility due to increased uncertainty, while risk-off assets such as gold are likely to benefit and rally. The real question is how Bitcoin reacts. Will it behave like a risk-on asset and see volatility, or will it begin to attract capital like a risk-off hedge and see an influx of liquidity as investors look to reduce exposure elsewhere?

Market Update:

Here is the fast five of what you need to know about the market in September 2025:

Bitcoin increased by 5.21%
Ethereum decreased by 4.43%
The top 10 remained unchanged from last month
BNB was the top performer in the top 10, climbing nearly 20%
ASTER exploded onto the scene and quickly became a top 50 crypto project

Video of the month:

Michael Saylor on Bitcoin & Credit Markets: Bitcoin Treasuries Unconference Full Panel and Q&A

Education: Bitcoin’s Correlation: Gold, Equities, or Its Own Path?

There are several conflicting views when it comes to Bitcoin and what it actually tracks in the broader market. Some refer to it as ‘Digital Gold’, positioning it as an alternative safe haven asset, while critics label it the ‘Leveraged Nasdaq’ or treat it as just another tech stock.

So what does Bitcoin really behave like? Is it a risk-on or risk-off asset, or does it move entirely on its own terms? Let’s break it down.

Correlation in this context is measured as a 120-day rolling correlation. A value above 0 indicates a positive correlation, meaning both assets tend to move together. A value below 0 signals a negative correlation, where the assets move inversely.

Bitcoin and Gold

Let’s start with gold, given Bitcoin’s nickname.

Despite often being referred to as ‘Digital Gold’, the two assets have rarely moved in tandem over Bitcoin’s lifecycle. The highest recorded correlation between them came during the pandemic, where it peaked at 0.5. During that period, Bitcoin rallied 400% while gold climbed 67%, as investors fled to inflation-resistant assets.

Since then, however, the relationship has faded. Today, the correlation hovers between 0 and 0.1, and the long-term average since Bitcoin’s inception is close to 0. In short, the two assets rarely move together, despite the narrative.

The divergence has been especially clear in 2025. Gold is up nearly 50% year to date, solidifying its status as the world’s hedge asset. Bitcoin, meanwhile, has spent much of the year consolidating. The market still appears to classify Bitcoin as a growth asset, while gold remains the preferred hedge.

Bitcoin and the S&P 500

In Bitcoin’s earlier years, especially pre-pandemic, its correlation to the S&P 500 was minimal, and at times even negative. It moved largely on its own, often dictated by crypto-native catalysts such as the Mt Gox collapse, regulatory crackdowns from China, and market cycles driven by halving events and ICOs.

That changed during the pandemic. As central banks flooded the economy with stimulus, asset classes began to move together, and Bitcoin’s correlation with equities climbed. The peak came in May 2022 during a wave of rate hikes and geopolitical shocks, including the conflict in Eastern Europe, where both Bitcoin and the S&P 500 dropped sharply. At that point, correlation reached 0.68.

Unlike its relationship with gold, Bitcoin has maintained a moderately strong correlation with equities as it continues to mature. Institutional adoption has increased, and Bitcoin now reacts more consistently to traditional macro events. As of today, the correlation with the S&P 500 sits around 0.5.

Although the S&P 500 pushed to new all-time highs throughout September while Bitcoin moved sideways, the 120-day rolling correlation remains intact. If Bitcoin catches a bid in October, we could see that connection strengthen again.

Bitcoin Is Maturing, but Not a Hedge Yet

For most of its life, Bitcoin moved independently from both traditional equities and hard assets. But as the asset has matured, its relationship with equities, particularly the S&P 500, has become more apparent. Bitcoin now reacts more predictably to macro headlines like inflation, interest rate decisions, tariffs, and geopolitical conflicts.

That said, Bitcoin still has its own isolated catalysts — whether it is ancient wallets moving, major project failures, or sudden surges in institutional or government adoption. These are unique to the crypto space and can drive movement independently from traditional markets.

However, when it comes to broader market forces, Bitcoin currently behaves more like a risk-on asset. While the ‘Digital Gold’ narrative remains aspirational, and may eventually become reality, for now Bitcoin is more closely tied to equity market sentiment than it is to gold.

Written by Alexandar Artis

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The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.

Stormrake is not a financial adviser and does not provide financial product advice. You should consider seeking independent legal, financial, taxation or other advice to check how the information relates to your unique circumstances. Stormrake is not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information provided directly or indirectly, by this newsletter.

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The Rake Review: August 2025

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:12:17 +1000

From All Time Highs to Bear Market Calls

August was a month of extremes for Bitcoin, with fresh all-time highs, sharp reversals, and a whale-triggered sell-off that shook sentiment. The cycle clock is ticking, and with rate cuts approaching and macro conditions shifting, the question now is whether the market has one more leg higher or if the top is already in.

A Month of Extremes: New Highs, Whale Dumps, and Macro Whiplash

They say the best thing you can do after buying Bitcoin is forget about it and come back in ten years. You miss the euphoric rallies and the soul-crushing drawdowns, but when you zoom out a decade later, odds are you are sitting on something worth significantly more than what you paid.

But for many, the volatility in between is part of the appeal. It draws speculators in, even as seasoned Bitcoiners grow numb to it. This August, that volatility was back in full force.

Coming into the month, two factors were expected to shape price action: the ongoing geopolitical tension between Ukraine and Russia, and the latest US inflation data. Both played their part. But the most dramatic twist came from a whale no one saw coming.

August began, like much of the year, with macro tensions. Putin floated a fresh ceasefire proposal that was swiftly dismissed by Zelenskyy. Reports of progress surfaced, with a potential trilateral meeting between Trump, Zelenskyy and Putin discussed. Nothing came of it in the end, but the market moved quickly. Bitcoin surged to a fresh all-time high above $124K following inflation data.

Ironically, while Bitcoin was created to hedge against inflation, it now reacts directly to inflation prints, rate cut speculation and the words of one man: Jerome Powell. As Bitcoin continues to mature, its correlation with traditional markets is strengthening. The same forces moving equities are moving crypto.

The first major driver was CPI. It came in slightly better than expected and gave Bitcoin the momentum to break out and push to new all time highs. But just days later, PPI told a very different story. The hotter-than-expected print triggered a sharp sell-off in risk markets. Bitcoin tumbled. Then Powell spoke.

Arguably the most influential voice in markets right now, Powell delivered a dovish tone in his policy speech that sent risk assets flying. Bitcoin rallied hard and attempted to reclaim the lost momentum post PPI data. It looked like momentum was back. Then the second domino fell.

A Bitcoin whale offloaded 24,000 BTC the day after Powell’s speech. That single move, worth $2.7 billion at the time, wiped over $4,000 off the price in a matter of minutes. As large as that number is, it was just a fraction of this whale’s holdings. They still have around 150,000 BTC sitting in their wallet. For comparison, last month eight wallets moved 80,000 BTC and triggered another market drop. If this whale ever decides to clear out their entire bag, the short-term impact would be massive. But for long-term buyers with patience, those kinds of moves could offer generational entry points.

Is Time Running Out for the Bull Run?

It’s the uncomfortable question that tends to get louder as prices climb higher: are we nearing the end of the bull run?

Bitcoin has now spent nearly three years climbing out from its 2022 cycle low, following a rhythm that long-time holders know well. This market structure, often referred to as the four-year cycle, has defined every major bull and bear market since Bitcoin’s inception. The premise is simple. A halving triggers a multi-year rally, followed by a year-long cooldown. Historically, cycle tops have formed around 500 days after each halving.

Right now, we are 490 days out from the most recent halving on 20 April 2024. Bitcoin recently tagged $124K and is beginning to show signs of slowing. That puts us right in the historical window where previous tops have occurred. The chart below shows the time elapsed between each halving and its corresponding cycle peak. Once again, Bitcoin appears to be tracking the same cadence.

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/X1SUCtC8/

Still, a growing school of thought argues that this time could be different. As Bitcoin continues to mature and becomes more integrated into institutional portfolios, the four-year cycle may be losing relevance. In this view, price action is becoming less about the halving and more about macro trends, liquidity flows and key narratives.

Trump’s influence, for example, whether through social media posts, executive orders or pro-crypto policy shifts, has had visible effects on Bitcoin’s price. Similarly, high-profile players like Michael Saylor and Larry Fink can move markets. If BlackRock were to announce even a 1 percent allocation across its products, Bitcoin would likely reprice well before any halving-driven supply dynamics had a chance to kick in.

That’s not to say halvings no longer matter. Their impact just seems to be fading with each cycle. Bitcoin is maturing. Liquidity is deeper. And price behaviour is starting to look more like a high-beta risk asset than a niche inflation hedge. Correlation with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 continues to rise, and policy decisions from the Fed or Treasury are now setting the tone for short-term price direction.

Even with these changes, this current cycle still looks and feels a lot like the previous ones. The timing, structure and sentiment all point toward a market nearing its peak. Some are already calling a top, while others believe we could still see a final blow-off phase that exceeds expectations. That view depends heavily on sustained risk appetite and continued institutional inflows.

Bitcoin’s history has shown that cycles, sentiment shifts and major market events tend to repeat in familiar ways. The details may evolve, but the patterns often stay the same. Whether this marks the end of the bull run or just the beginning of its final leg, one truth remains: short-term volatility does not change the long-term case for Bitcoin.

August Volatility, September’s Seasonal Struggles

If you had told someone a month ago that Bitcoin would hit new all-time highs and then, just days later, people would be calling for a bear market, they would have thought you were mad. But that is exactly how August played out.

Bitcoin climbed to a new peak, ending the month nearly 7% higher at one point. But things turned fast. As sentiment flipped, the month closed red, down just under 7% from its high. It was a sharp reversal that caught many off guard.

Now we head into September, a month that has rarely been kind to Bitcoin. Historically, it is the worst-performing month on average for the asset, with a typical loss of 5.58% and nine of the last fourteen Septembers closing in the red. The trend is clear, and it is not just limited to crypto. September also has a poor track record for equities. Since 1926, the S&P 500 has averaged a return of minus 0.8% in September, and four of the last five years have followed that same negative pattern.

The current structure does not look great for Bitcoin, with August seeing both momentum and short-term control swing back to the bears. Entering what is statistically the most bearish month of the year only adds to the uncertainty. That said, the picture is not all bad. As shown in the chart, Bitcoin is now approaching a strong zone of technical support between $104K and $107K, with a deeper support band below that in the $102K to $103K region. If price continues lower and September plays out as history suggests, these levels should provide meaningful demand and could very well mark a short-term bottom.

Source: https://www.tradingview.com/x/4k2HJmJP/

These zones also align with what we would expect if Bitcoin were to post a typical September pullback of around 5%, which suggests any downside from here could be limited. From a structural perspective, this makes the coming weeks critical. If the support holds, the stage would be set for a potential rebound in October, which has historically been one of Bitcoin’s strongest months.

Breakout targets remain intact, with the shallow $130K region still acting as the key upside magnet. A move of nearly 20% would be required to reach those levels, but a steady September would set the scene for a strong fourth quarter, continuing the pattern of bullish momentum through October and beyond.

Macro could be the deciding factor. All eyes are on the 17 September interest rate decision, where markets are currently pricing in an 85% chance of a 25 bps cut. Powell’s dovish tone in August already boosted risk sentiment, and if a cut is confirmed, it could be the catalyst Bitcoin needs. One more inflation print is due before the meeting, and that could either confirm expectations or throw more confusion into the mix. If the Fed surprises with a hold, risk assets could face another leg lower.

Geopolitics also remains a wildcard. The potential meeting between Trump, Zelenskyy and Putin, expected in early September, could influence markets significantly. A move towards resolution in the Ukraine conflict would likely be seen as a major positive for risk assets.

So while history may not be on Bitcoin’s side heading into September, macro and technical support both offer reasons for cautious optimism. Bitcoin is vulnerable in the short term, but structurally it remains in the range of strong demand. The path forward depends on whether buyers step in here or wait for further confirmation. Either way, what happens in September could shape the rest of the cycle.

In the News:

XRP Co-founder faces scrutiny for selling his tokens:

Controversy has been building around XRP co-founder Chris Larsen, as his wallet was recently linked to the sale or movement of 50 million XRP tokens, worth roughly $175 million around XRP's all-time high in July at $3.65. Around $140 million of that total ended up on exchanges, with the rest transferred to new wallets. The move has weighed heavily on XRP’s price action and added further pressure to an already bearish market backdrop. It has also reignited criticism around the project’s centralisation, with many investors frustrated by the perception that insiders are selling into retail demand. Any hopes of a bullish breakout have been temporarily halted.

Executive Order Opens Retirement Crypto Access in America:

In his push to position America as the global home of crypto, Trump signed another series of pro-crypto executive orders last month. The most impactful of these now allows Americans to purchase Bitcoin and other crypto assets within their 401(k) retirement plans, the US equivalent of Superannuation. This policy unlocks a major gateway, potentially giving over 90 million Americans direct exposure to the crypto market. It is a significant milestone for mainstream adoption and another tailwind for long-term demand.

Chainlink Partners with the US Department of Commerce:

Sticking with the broader theme of US-led crypto advancement, Chainlink has announced a partnership with the US Department of Commerce. The collaboration will bring key economic indicators, including real GDP and the PCE Price Index, on-chain to make the data immutable and publicly verifiable. This is a major step forward, not just for Chainlink but for the crypto space at large. By putting real-world economic data on the blockchain, the initiative signals growing institutional confidence in the technology and further legitimises the use case for decentralised data infrastructure beyond just Bitcoin.

Market Update:

Here is the fast five of what you need to know about the market in August 2025:

Bitcoin dropped 6.43% in August
Ethereum gained 18.7%, continuing its strong run and setting a new all-time high
Solana kept pace with ETH, finishing the month up 16.7%
Chainlink led the majors, up 37.3% and climbing to the 13th largest crypto by market cap
Total crypto market cap fell slightly by 0.56%

Video of the month:

Balaji Srinivasan: What Happens When Bitcoin Wins | Bitcoin Asia 2025

Education: Is There a Problem with Bitcoin Treasury Companies?

In the last cycle, we saw the collapse of hedge funds, trading firms and exchanges that were once considered too big to fail, until they were not. The unraveling of 3 Arrows Capital, Alameda Research and ultimately FTX dealt brutal blows to the market during the bear phase, sending Bitcoin and the broader crypto space even lower. A common thread ran through all of them: they were overleveraged and, in many cases, trading with borrowed or misused funds. As the bear market deepened and drawdowns accelerated, they fell like dominoes.

This cycle, the spotlight has shifted. Some critics now argue that Bitcoin treasury companies, which are firms holding large amounts of Bitcoin on their balance sheets, could become the FTX or 3AC of this era. The concern is that they are similarly vulnerable to collapse and could amplify downside pressure on Bitcoin’s price during periods of stress.

The Bitcoin treasury model has been led by Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) CEO Michael Saylor. Under his leadership, the company has accumulated one of the largest corporate Bitcoin reserves by purchasing BTC directly and raising additional capital through convertible notes and equity offerings to buy more. In some cases, they have used debt financing, which increases the risk profile of the strategy. Other companies, such as Tesla and Block, have taken a different approach by using internal funds, but none have matched Strategy’s scale or aggressiveness. Recently, a handful of other Bitcoin-focused businesses have signalled similar intentions, taking inspiration from Saylor’s model.

It is not just Bitcoin seeing this trend emerge. Companies are beginning to adopt a similar strategy with other digital assets, including Ethereum and Solana. BitMine is currently the largest Ethereum treasury company, while Upexi holds the largest corporate position in Solana. As more companies join the trend and a broader range of assets become part of corporate treasuries, the risks begin to increase. With fewer safeguards, less liquidity and greater volatility across altcoins, the danger and likelihood of forced liquidations, poor risk management and eventual collapse become much higher. This raises systemic concerns not just for Bitcoin, but for the wider crypto market if this trend continues to accelerate without proper controls.

The core concern is leverage. Strategy has issued billions of dollars in debt to build its Bitcoin position. If a deep bear market drives prices sharply lower, the value of its holdings could fall to a point where the company struggles to service or refinance that debt. In a worst-case scenario, this could trigger forced Bitcoin sales, accelerating downside moves and shaking market confidence. While Strategy has already weathered one full bear cycle, the risk grows as the model is adopted by others. Critics warn it only takes one major failure to temporarily destabilise the market.

That said, even if a Bitcoin treasury company collapses and is forced to liquidate, it is crucial to remember that this risk sits with the company, not with Bitcoin itself. The network and asset remain fundamentally unchanged. Prices could fall in the short term, but Bitcoin’s core qualities such as scarcity, decentralisation and security are not affected by the actions of any single firm.

The analogy to the Global Financial Crisis is useful. In 2008, banks created risky debt instruments tied to mortgages. When the debt collapsed, markets crashed, but the houses themselves were still there. Similarly, if overleveraged crypto treasury companies fail, the Bitcoin, Ethereum or Solana they hold remains the same. The long-term value proposition does not disappear just because the wrong balance sheet strategy blew up.

Whether these companies thrive or collapse, Bitcoin remains Bitcoin. And now, so does Ethereum, Solana and any other asset chosen as a corporate store of value. For long-term investors, the noise around strategy, leverage and risk exposure should not distract from the core fundamentals. Volatility is part of the market, but the technology and value behind these assets persist regardless of how any one company chooses to manage its books.

Written by Alexandar Artis

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If you enjoyed this Rake Review, feel free to open an account and gain access to more proprietary research and work with your very own dedicated crypto broker.

No Advice Warning

The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.

Disclaimer

The Rake Review: July 2025

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:58:55 +1000

From Dormant Wallets to Record Highs and the Dawn of Altseason?

July was a month of contrasts for Bitcoin, with decade-old coins suddenly moving, fresh all-time highs, and the first major crypto regulations landing. The back half of the year has started stronger than expected, but can this momentum carry into a full-fledged altseason?

Blast from Bitcoin’s Past

Everyone wishes they bought Bitcoin earlier. Back in 2011, it was under $1. But even if you had bought it then, would you have held it until today? The likely answer is no. Most would have sold at $100, $1,000, or maybe $10,000.

The first challenge would have been simply buying it. Stormrake didn’t exist, so you couldn’t just call your broker for an allocation. Storing Bitcoin was also a headache. Hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor didn’t exist, and the main exchange at the time, Mt. Gox, was hacked in 2013, with 7% of the total Bitcoin supply stolen.

Source:https://x.com/GregSchoen/status/70261648811761665

So the likelihood of you still having your Bitcoin, even if you bought it in 2011, is extremely slim. You most likely would have been like the X user above, who actually did buy Bitcoin in 2011 but sold at $0.30. For those curious, his 1,700 BTC is now worth roughly $196 million USD or $298 million AUD.

This month, several wallets from that early era suddenly came to life. Eight ‘Satoshi-Era’ wallets moved over 80,000 BTC, worth more than $8.4 billion USD at the time. Speculation immediately swirled around the crypto community. Was it Silk Road creator Ross Ulbricht, freed by Trump earlier this year? Early Bitcoin evangelist Roger Ver, recently released from prison? Or even Satoshi Nakamoto himself?

The initial movements triggered a brief wave of selling as investors feared a massive dump. But it turned out to be simple wallet upgrades, moving coins from old, inefficient addresses to newer ones with lower fees. The owners remain a mystery.

Then, late this month, Galaxy Digital confirmed one of the largest Bitcoin sales in history: more than 80,000 BTC sold for over $9 billion USD. It caused another quick sell-off, but demand quickly absorbed it. The market barely flinched. The only losers were the panic sellers. Everyone else, including the mystery whale who turned a $54,000 investment into $9 billion in under 15 years, won.

If it really was Ulbricht or Ver, perhaps prison was a blessing in disguise. A decade without access to their Bitcoin meant they couldn’t sell, and that enforced patience paid off. Or maybe it was simply someone with true diamond hands. Either way, the lesson is clear. Holding Bitcoin through its volatile cycles, as we tell our Stormrake clients time and time again, has historically been the ultimate reward.

The Altseason Question

Has altseason finally arrived? The bull run that many have been waiting for may now be upon us. Historically, altseasons have been extremely rewarding for holders of altcoins, but this cycle has tested patience. Over the last 12 to 18 months, we have seen several false starts. Traders tried to front-run altseason, rotated heavily into alts, and ended up holding deep drawdowns. Could this finally be the real one?

When it comes to altseason, there are a few reliable signals. This time, multiple signals are aligning more clearly than ever. Those who have been in the crypto space for several cycles will be familiar with the traditional phases of altseason:

Source:@Twitter

The path to altseason historically follows four overlapping phases. This current bull run has been dominated by Bitcoin and has effectively remained in Phase 1 for years. Bitcoin rose from $15.5K to well over $100K. While some sectors briefly outperformed—ISO tokens, real-world asset tokens—Bitcoin consistently led.

Phase 2 begins when Ethereum dominates, consistently outperforming Bitcoin and other altcoins. The key word here is consistency. Over the past few years, Ethereum occasionally outperformed Bitcoin for short bursts, but never for more than a couple of weeks. Many traders rotated too early, only to watch Bitcoin hit new all-time highs while Ethereum lagged.

The last few months have been different. Ethereum has now been consistently outperforming Bitcoin, supported by major institutional demand. Spot Ethereum ETF inflows have dwarfed Bitcoin ETF inflows on a market cap-adjusted basis. Since 2 July, Ethereum ETFs have not seen a single day of net outflows, while Bitcoin ETF flows have been mixed.

Phase 3 is when funds begin to rotate from Ethereum into the next set of large-cap altcoins: Binance Coin (BNB), Solana (SOL), Ripple (XRP), Hyperliquid (HYPE), and Sui (SUI). These coins start to lead the market and outperform both Bitcoin and Ethereum. We have already seen brief signs of this, with BNB and HYPE hitting new all-time highs while Ethereum remains below its peak. However, the outperformance must be sustained to confirm Phase 3. Until then, the market remains in Phase 2.

Price action is not the only way to identify altseason. Another key signal is Bitcoin dominance versus total altcoin market cap. Bitcoin dominance measures how much of the total crypto market cap is made up of Bitcoin. In a Bitcoin-led market, dominance rises above 60% while the altcoin market cap trends down. In contrast, during altseason, Bitcoin dominance breaks down while the total altcoin market cap rallies and breaks out. This does not necessarily mean Bitcoin falls—its price can still rise—but altcoins rise faster.

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/xR8yelyJ/

The charts above show Bitcoin dominance breaking down and the total altcoin market cap breaking out. Dominance now has a confirmed bearish structure with lower highs and lower lows, while the altcoin market cap has reversed into a bullish structure of higher highs and higher lows. Together, this is the strongest confirmation of altseason we have seen in this cycle.

It finally seems like altseason is here. The signals are clear, the false starts are behind us, and institutions are now showing a preference for Ethereum over Bitcoin. But altseason does not mean you should rotate your entire position from Bitcoin into altcoins. Experienced cycle traders know that the real strategy is to let altcoins grow your Bitcoin stack. Accumulate altcoins, take profits during the outperformance, and use those gains to buy more Bitcoin.

July Delivered. What’s Next for August?

Last month, we set a July target for Bitcoin to create a new all-time high around $117K–$118K. July more than delivered, with a new all-time high at $123K, and it ultimately closed the month right at our target zone, up 8% for July. The bullish structure has been fully confirmed, setting up the back half of the year in a strong position.

Now we turn to August. Historically, August has been a bearish month for Bitcoin, with an average return of -0.23%. Nine of the last 14 Augusts have closed red, including the last three in a row. On the surface, history doesn’t favour a green month.

But this cycle is different. Bitcoin’s strength lies in its extremely bullish market structure and in a factor it has never had in past cycles: institutional demand. Institutions have been the primary driver of this bull run, alongside the rising global money supply. These factors could still override August’s historical weakness, even as the market’s confidence in a September rate cut has wavered. With over a month until the next FOMC meeting, sentiment has room to shift. Two key CPI prints and the rollout of new tariffs will land before the decision, offering clarity on the Fed’s next move. Historically, markets have been quick to front-run anticipated policy shifts, which makes a bullish August entirely plausible despite current uncertainty.

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/hWcelaAb/

The current chart continues to show clear bullish momentum. Bitcoin has entered a consolidation phase, moving sideways and building energy for its next leg up.

Price action is now testing the lower edge of this consolidation range, and with August being historically a bearish month, there is a chance we see a pullback towards the previous all-time high around $112K. This area aligns with the 55-day exponential moving average, which should act as a key bounce level if a sustained move lower occurs.

However, if August bucks its historical trend—as we expect it will—the breakout target from this consolidation range sits between $131.5K and $136K. These levels are supported by the 1.414 and 1.618 Fibonacci extension levels, as well as the central pivot range target at $132K.

In the News:

Liberation Day Tariffs Set to Resume on August 1:

A dominant theme this year has been tariffs, with the event that shocked markets occurring in April—dubbed “Liberation Day” by Trump himself. A broad blanket of tariffs was placed on multiple countries, then delayed by 90 days to allow trade deal negotiations with the US. That deadline was later pushed to 1 August.

During the pause, several deals have been reached, most notably between the United States and the European Union. Countries that have not secured agreements by 1 August are expected to face the return of the Liberation Day tariffs.

Three Major Bills Passed During Crypto Week:

This month saw the inaugural Crypto Week, expected to be a milestone for crypto regulation, with three major bills targeted for passage: the GENIUS Act, CLARITY Act, and Anti-CBDC Act.

While the week started with a surprise setback as the initial vote to pass all three bills failed, a second vote days later saw all three approved. The GENIUS Act was signed into law on 18 July, marking a landmark moment for US crypto regulation and a strong step forward for the industry.

Geopolitical Escalations:

The conflict Trump claimed he could end within a day of taking office has once again moved to the forefront of investors’ minds. Frustrated by Russia’s continued refusal to engage in ceasefire or peace talks, Trump shortened his ceasefire deadline from 50 days to roughly 10.

If Russia does not comply, the US has threatened expanded sanctions and additional tariffs impacting all countries trading with Russia. This new deadline, expected in early August, is a critical factor to watch as it could influence market price action in the first weeks of the month.

Market Update:

Here is the fast five of what you need to know about the market in July 2025:

Bitcoin rose by 8% in July.
Ethereum dominated, rising by 49% in July.
Tron slipped to 10th, being jumped by Lido Staked Ethereum and Dogecoin.
HBAR continues to climb the ranks, up 67% and into the top 20 projects by market cap.
The total crypto market cap grew by 14.18% in July.

Video of the month:

Winning the AI Race Part 5: President Trump on the AI Action Plan and US Crypto plans for the next 5 years...

Education: What to Avoid This Altseason

If this month has taught us anything, it is that holding spot Bitcoin remains the most rewarding investment strategy. As shown in our opening section, the Satoshi-era wallets turned modest investments into generational wealth simply by holding. They didn’t trade in and out, they didn’t chase the hype, and they certainly didn’t use leverage.

Now that we’re in altseason, the allure of chasing fast gains is everywhere. Narratives will explode overnight, and social media will be flooded with people bragging about their 100x winners. The biggest challenge is sticking to your plan. For most investors, that means holding your Bitcoin, using altcoins only as a tool to accumulate more Bitcoin, and most importantly, avoiding leverage.

The path to wealth in Bitcoin is simple and has been proven cycle after cycle:

Step 1: Buy spot Bitcoin

Step 2: Do not use leverage

Step 3: Be patient and wait

It sounds almost too simple, but this is the formula that works. Most people fail to follow it because they crave action, chase short-term returns, or convince themselves that leverage is a shortcut to wealth.

Leverage offers the illusion of easy profits, but in reality it is a ticking time bomb. You pay daily fees to keep positions open, and your exposure to the market is amplified. Even the smallest fluctuation can wipe out 100% of your funds. This month was a perfect example. Bitcoin spent over two weeks consolidating between $116K and $120K, a move of less than 3%, yet billions in leveraged positions were liquidated. Traders lost everything in a market that barely moved.

History tells the same story. Every Bitcoin bear market has seen brutal drawdowns of 80% or more. These periods are designed to shake out the impatient and punish those overexposed with leverage. If the Satoshi-era whale had ever used leverage, they would never have survived the 80%+ drawdowns that defined prior bear markets. Their eventual multi-billion-dollar fortune was only possible because they did the simplest thing: held spot Bitcoin with patience.

The Rule of 90 is another grim reminder of why most traders fail. According to this rule, 90% of novice traders will lose 90% of their capital within their first 90 days. Meanwhile, 100% of Bitcoin holders who have held spot for longer than 4 years have always been in profit. The contrast between trading and simply holding could not be clearer.

Leverage is not for investors. Investors are the ones with long-term conviction who survive the cycles and never become forced sellers. Leverage amplifies mistakes, turns normal volatility into existential risk, and destroys the one thing you need most to succeed in Bitcoin: time in the market.

The lesson is simple but profound: buy spot Bitcoin, avoid leverage, and be patient. It may feel boring, but boring is what builds lasting wealth in Bitcoin. Excitement and leverage are what get traders liquidated.

Written by Alexandar Artis

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The Rake Review: June

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 19:50:11 +1000

How Washington and the Middle East Shaped June’s Bitcoin Market

As with much of the first half of 2025, June's price action was largely influenced by news and decisions from the White House, alongside ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, but it has set itself up for a potentially bullish second half of the year.

A Month Shaped by Macro Headwinds:

June was a month of notable volatility, with macro catalysts flying left and right. Every other day, a new announcement seemed to shock the markets. Despite this, Bitcoin remained relatively steady throughout, which should be viewed as a positive. Bitcoin lived up to its reputation as digital hard money in June.

The month began with the aftermath of May’s late pullback from its all-time high, opening the door for both bulls and bears to fight for control. However, neither side seized the opportunity until another macro catalyst rattled the market: a fallout between US President Donald Trump and his right-hand man, Elon Musk. Words were exchanged on social media, and the once-strong bromance seemed over. Risk-on markets panicked, giving bears the upper hand.

That said, Bitcoin and the market soon realised the absurdity of the feud. The fact that a dispute between two high-profile figures could cause such disruption highlighted the market’s vulnerability, but Bitcoin quickly bounced back into its consolidation range. After breaking out, Bitcoin continued its ascent and was knocking on the door of its all-time highs. Then, conflict in the Middle East escalated, with Israel launching a pre-emptive attack on Iran's nuclear sites and other military targets and Iran launching ballistic missiles at Israeli cities in response. The risk-off sentiment returned quickly. Gold surged to new all-time highs, while crude oil spiked by 20% in two days. Yet, despite the rally in risk-off assets, risk-on assets didn’t react in the same way as in previous geopolitical crises. Traditional indices largely shrugged off the conflict, with the S&P 500 pulling back by less than 2% and the Nasdaq by 3%. Bitcoin showed a similar response, losing 11% during the conflict—far less than its usual reactions to global tensions. In the past, Bitcoin had dropped over 10% in a single day during such events. This 11% drop, over the course of the entire conflict, demonstrated the asset’s growing maturity.

In fact, these corrections should be welcomed, as they often lead to smart money accumulating Bitcoin while altcoins underperform. Historically, these corrections have been short-lived. Bitcoin has consistently recovered and pushed higher, typically within 60 days of such events.

Let’s take a look at Bitcoin’s performance during some of the most volatile macro events over the past five years:

While each event has triggered immediate volatility, Bitcoin has repeatedly persevered and rewarded those who took advantage of these short-term dips. In many cases, Bitcoin had recovered to break-even or positive just 10 days after the event. Two months later, the asset was in positive territory every single time. This is why we remained bullish despite the correction caused by the Middle East conflict—and will continue to be bullish during future events that may rock Bitcoin.

July Market Outlook: Ready for a Bullish Turn?

June proved to be another valuable lesson in holding strong with conviction and capitalising on corrections. With Bitcoin already up 10% from its monthly low, it’s now knocking on the door of all-time highs, setting the stage for what could be a strong second half of 2025.

We enter July with bullish momentum, but the market structure remains a cause for concern, still under the control of the bears. June underperformed its average, returning only 2.42%, and confirmed the bearish structure with a series of lower lows and lower highs, driven by negative macro catalysts.

Not only are we closing June, but we’re also finishing the first half of 2025, up 14.50%. While this is an improvement, it’s far from the explosive growth many had anticipated for the year. However, July could present the perfect opportunity for Bitcoin to finally live up to those 2025 expectations. With clearer tariff policies, settled interest rate expectations, and conflicts winding down—with a ceasefire between Israel and Iran confirmed, and Trump pushing for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, possibly in July—the fundamental catalysts are looking favourable for Bitcoin. Additionally, the global money supply continues to expand, and the US debt has now surpassed $37 trillion.

Historically, July has been a bullish month for Bitcoin, with nine out of the past fourteen July's returning positive gains. Those months that saw negative returns experienced relatively small drawdowns, with four of them dropping by less than 10%, and the largest drop being 16%. On average, Bitcoin has returned 8.26% in July.

Source: https://www.tradingview.com/x/Jw54wXkh/

Bitcoin bounced perfectly from the fair value gap identified last month, which corresponded with the monthly low. At present, Bitcoin is trading just at $107K, only a small percentage away from its all-time high. If Bitcoin can replicate its average July return of 8.26%, we could see new all-time highs around $116K. This aligns with the new CPR (Central Pivot Range) target of $117K and the key Fibonacci extension level of 1.414, which sits just above $118K.

However, before we talk about new all-time highs, Bitcoin must first break the current bearish structure and establish a new higher high above $110.6K. If Bitcoin creates another lower low, it will reinforce the bearish structure and likely trigger another sell-off. But if a new higher high is established, Bitcoin should continue pushing higher, potentially creating a new all-time high and venturing much further.

Stablecoin GENIUS Act Passed:

Amid the chaos in the Middle East this month, something significant passed under the radar—the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act, or the Genius Act. One of the key promises of the Trump administration was to provide clearer regulations surrounding cryptocurrency, and it’s safe to say that promise has been delivered.

The purpose of the Genius Act is to establish the first comprehensive federal framework for regulating payment stablecoins in the U.S. The act aims to provide regulatory clarity, enhance consumer protections, and promote innovation, all while ensuring financial stability. Some key features of the bill include:

A clear definition of payment stablecoins
Reserve requirements (stablecoin issuers must hold 1:1 reserves)
Licensing requirements
And more

The bill has the backing of influential figures such as Senator Cynthia Lummis, as well as USDC issuers Circle and Coinbase. On the other hand, anti-crypto Senator Elizabeth Warren was a vocal critic of the bill, though to no avail.

The stablecoin industry is a $250 billion market, making up roughly 8% of the entire crypto market cap, with USDT in the lead and USDC in second place. The new bill opens the door for potential new competitors to challenge the dominance of these two major players. For general users, it could make stablecoins a more mainstream form of payment, while also providing compliant, regulated options that offer more clarity and safety, helping to avoid future collapses like Terra's UST in 2022.

Although this bill does not directly impact Bitcoin, its passage is undoubtedly a positive step for the broader crypto space. It signals a promising shift towards more thoughtful regulation within the industry and demonstrates that lawmakers, as well as major institutions, are increasingly supportive of pro-crypto bills. We can expect more legislation in the future, whether it’s further bills around Bitcoin, decentralized finance, or broader crypto clarity within the U.S. This marks a significant step toward fulfilling Trump’s promise of making the United States the home of cryptocurrency according to his administration.

In the News:

Circle IPO performance:

Source: https://au.finance.yahoo.com/chart/CRCL

Circle made waves in the traditional market space this month following its initial public offering (IPO). The company debuted at $31 on June 4th, quickly rallying to over $100 within the first day of trading before closing at $83. Since then, Circle has continued its remarkable upward trajectory, benefitting significantly from the passing of the Genius Act. As the primary issuer of USDC, the stablecoin bill has propelled Circle's stock, which is now trading at $180—up from its debut price in less than a month. Just a week ago, Circle reached a high of $298.99. It’s safe to say this has been one of the most successful IPOs in recent memory.

Big Beautiful BIll passed:

Source:https://www.usdebtclock.org/

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a key legislative priority for President Donald Trump, advanced in the Senate, with a 51-50 procedural vote. Despite concerns over its fiscal impact, the Senate’s version of the bill includes permanent extensions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, new tax breaks for tips and overtime, and significant spending on border security and defence. The bill is projected to cost $4.45 trillion over a decade. Critics—including Democrats and some Republicans—argue that the steep cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, combined with a $5 trillion debt ceiling increase, disproportionately harm low-income Americans while favouring the wealthy. This has sparked significant controversy, with the Senate now debating amendments ahead of a potential passage deadline on July 4, 2025.

Texas officially has a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve:

Texas has officially become the third US state to establish its own Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR), further demonstrating the growing institutional and political integration of Bitcoin. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has expressed expectations that the state will invest tens of millions of dollars into Bitcoin through this publicly funded reserve. However, the Texas SBR differs from the federal version established by Trump in January. The Texas reserve is funded through state funds and voluntary contributions, aiming to diversify Texas's finances. In contrast, the federal Strategic Bitcoin Reserve uses seized crypto assets to strengthen national economic security—without tapping taxpayer dollars.

Market Update:

Here is the fast five of what you need to know about the market in June 2025:

Bitcoin rose just 2.42% in June.
Ethereum fell 1.62% in June.
Cardano fell out of the top 10, replaced by Lido Staked Ethereum.
Bitcoin dominance is at a multi-year high at 66%.
The total crypto market cap grew by just 1.15% in June.

Video of the month:

Jack Mallers Speech at BTCPrague

Bitcoin & SMSFs 101 Webinar: Insights with EasySuper

DATE: 30 July 2025 at 6:00 pm AEST

If you missed the original, this is your chance — don’t waste it.

Learn how to structure your SMSF to include crypto, use strategic leverage, and stay compliant.

Register now — spots are filling fast.

https://easysuper.smsfconsulting.com.au/stormrake-easysuper

Education - How to use Bitcoin:

Source: @Mr Curious

There are many who have heard of Bitcoin, and some choose to ignore or discount it. Among those who invest in it, even fewer truly understand its purpose and utility.

Most Bitcoin investors see it as just a speculative asset—one that has outperformed nearly every other investment over the years—and they're right. But Bitcoin is much more than just a speculative investment; its use case extends far beyond that.

Bitcoin was initially created as a means of exchange, designed to operate away from centralised third parties. It was intended to be exchanged peer-to-peer and to be inflation-proof, thanks to its fixed supply of 21 million tokens, making it immune to manipulation by any central authority.

Means of Exchange:

Bitcoin’s primary use was as a means of exchange, and even though its price has exploded over time, this hasn’t changed. Bitcoin remains a key peer-to-peer method of exchange. Regardless of its dollar value, Bitcoin can always be used as a means of exchange, and its divisibility ensures that it can serve even for smaller transactions.

Bitcoin is divisible to eight decimal places, with one Bitcoin consisting of 100 million satoshis. At current prices, one satoshi is worth approximately $0.00107 USD. This shows the incredible flexibility of Bitcoin as a medium of exchange. Whether you’re buying a coffee or paying for a service, all you need is a Bitcoin wallet, and you’ll always have access to a decentralised means of exchange—without the need for any third parties.

Store of Value:

Bitcoin as a store of value has been criticised by many skeptics who point to its volatility and bear markets as evidence that it cannot fulfil this role. While it’s true that Bitcoin is volatile and has experienced severe drawdowns, it’s incorrect to claim that it can’t function as a store of value.

Those who understand Bitcoin have been using it as a savings vehicle. With fiat currencies constantly devaluing, Bitcoin’s price appreciation against these currencies has proven its potential as a store of value. Long-term holders (Hodlers) have welcomed market corrections, viewing them as opportunities to accumulate more Bitcoin at lower prices.

A classic example of Bitcoin’s store of value can be seen in its purchasing power over time. Take a look at the chart below:

Australian Median House Price in Bitcoin (2014-2024)

In 2014, over 3,000 Bitcoin was required to buy the median Australian home. Today, less than 10 Bitcoin is needed to purchase the same home. Meanwhile, house prices in AUD have steadily increased over the past decade. This clearly demonstrates Bitcoin’s purchasing power growth compared to the declining purchasing power of fiat currency. This trend isn’t limited to real estate—everyday goods and services exhibit the same pattern, showing that Bitcoin has not only protected purchasing power but enhanced it.

Collateral & Borrowing:

For those who understand Bitcoin’s potential but are unsure how to spend it while retaining its value, the solution lies in using Bitcoin as collateral. Similar to using property as collateral, you can leverage your Bitcoin holdings to acquire fiat currency without having to sell or dispose of your Bitcoin.

As the crypto ecosystem has expanded, Bitcoin-backed loans have become widely available. This allows you to borrow fiat currency based on the value of your Bitcoin holdings, meaning you can continue to spend without parting with your Bitcoin. An added bonus is that borrowing against Bitcoin is not considered a taxable event.

The True Power of Bitcoin:

In its relatively short lifespan, Bitcoin has proven that it is much more than just a speculative investment. The ability to use Bitcoin as a means of exchange has been fundamental from the start—and will remain so. Bitcoin continues to defy critics who claim it isn’t a reliable store of value, and it has solved the key issue that many Bitcoin holders faced: how to extract value from Bitcoin without selling or disposing of it. By using Bitcoin as collateral, it is now possible to unlock the liquidity of your Bitcoin while preserving it as a store of value.

Yes, Bitcoin has proven to be an excellent investment asset, but it is also so much more.

Written by Alexandar Artis

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Risk-Off Rebound: Bitcoin Finds Bid as Macro Headwinds Mount

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:34:15 +1000

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It seems like every day brings fresh tensions—whether it’s tariff disputes between the US and the rest of the world or escalations on the geopolitical front. Over the past 24 hours, we’ve seen some progress between the US and China, with the pause on selected tariffs for Chinese goods extended until August 31. Still, Trump hasn’t forgotten his Liberation Day tariffs. His administration has drawn a hard line, giving countries until July 8 to finalise their trade agreements or face the reinstatement of those tariffs—just over 30 days to strike a deal.

Meanwhile, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to ripple through markets. A Ukrainian drone strike reportedly eliminated over 30% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers. Since the news broke, crude oil is up nearly 4%, natural gas nearly 7%, gold up almost 3%, silver over 5%, and Bitcoin has also shown strength. The market’s reaction underscores the growing realisation that a peace deal remains unlikely, with risk-off conditions setting in.

Jerome Powell’s speech today offered no clarity on tariffs or the rate outlook, leaving markets adrift. Meanwhile, Trump’s proposed budget—set to add $5.1 trillion in new debt—has stoked reflation bets and revived investor concerns over fiscal excess. The Treasury’s Bessent moved quickly to reassure markets, insisting the US will “never default” on its now $36 trillion debt load. In turn, Bitcoin has rallied as a hedge against fiscal sprawl and dollar dilution, with investors rotating into hard assets amid mounting uncertainty.

In the last 24 hours, Ethereum led the crypto charge, up nearly 3% and reclaiming $2,600. Bitcoin battled through bear pressure to close just in the green—up 0.20% after being down nearly 2% intraday. Market sentiment is turning upward once again. Just four days ago, the Fear & Greed Index sat at 50; now, it’s climbing at 64, suggesting investors are regaining confidence amid the pullback.

Stormrake Spotlight: Bittensor (TAO) ($402)

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/jW9xknFX/

TAO bounced from key support and briefly reclaimed the 21EMA but has since slipped back below it. Immediate support now sits at the 200SMA around $400. Should this level fail, we’ll look to the $390 support zone for the next hold.

BTC/USD Key Levels and Price Action:

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/CRpxZpmj/

Bitcoin retested the critical $104K support once again and held firm, now pushing into resistance at $106K. This area aligns with the 0.5 Fibonacci level and a bearish supply zone that has rejected BTC on two prior occasions. If Bitcoin clears $106K and $107K, a move toward $109K and potentially new all-time highs is in play.

BTC Total ETF Flows for 2 Jun: $ - 87.0 million

(ETF flow data is sourced from https://farside.co.uk/btc/ and reflects figures at the time of writing.)

To receive the Morning Note in your inbox, subscribe here: https://stormrake.substack.com/

*All prices are denominated in USD unless stated otherwise*

Written by Alexandar Artis

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The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.

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Bitcoin Finds a Bid as Trade Tensions Escalate

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:59:50 +1000

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A weekend dominated by tariff headlines and statements from key global figures saw tensions flare further between the US and China, while the European Union pushed back against Trump's sweeping 50% tariff on steel imports. Despite the geopolitical noise, Bitcoin shook off its recent bearish streak, closing both Saturday and Sunday in the green—a strong start to the month.

Trump’s across-the-board 50% steel tariffs have rattled even close allies. Both Australia and the EU have expressed strong disapproval, with the EU stating it “strongly regrets” the move and is preparing “countermeasures.” This comes just a week after Trump threatened a similar tariff on the entire EU, only to delay its implementation until July to allow for negotiations. Brussels argues that the tariff hike “undermines” ongoing efforts to reach a trade deal.

Meanwhile, the US-China feud continues to unravel any recent progress. Diplomatic barbs are being traded almost daily. China labelled the US as the “biggest threat” to regional peace and stability, while Pete Hegseth warned on Friday that China is “credibly” preparing for military action, calling the threat “imminent.” US Treasury Secretary Bessent accused China of withholding critical industrial goods, further fraying trade relations. Although both sides agreed to a 90-day tariff pause to negotiate, signs of progress are limited. Trump is reportedly planning a call with Xi later this week to break the deadlock.

Looking ahead, Jerome Powell— the man who moves markets with a single word—is set to speak tomorrow morning. Questions will likely centre on Trump’s tariff moves, recent court rulings, and the broader state of the US economy. With an interest rate decision due later this month, current expectations suggest an almost 100% probability of no change in rates.

Stormrake Spotlight: Bittensor (TAO) ($413)

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/Lfi64u3O/

Since Saturday’s Morning Note, TAO is up over 12%, rebounding cleanly from the $390 support level highlighted on the chart—a bullish signal showing strong demand at this key area. While TAO remains in a broader bearish structure, characterised by a series of lower highs and lower lows, the weekend’s bounce indicates the bulls are not done yet. A reclaim of the 21EMA, which currently acts as resistance, would open the door for a higher high and potentially flip the structure in favour of the bulls.

BTC/USD Key Levels and Price Action:

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/6vZ9ZwpY/

Bitcoin reclaimed the $104K level over the weekend, after briefly threatening a drop below $103K. Although momentum has shifted back to the bulls, BTC now faces resistance at $106K–$107K. A rejection here could see a retest of $104K and a continued drift towards $100K. However, a decisive breakout above this zone could set the stage for a move to $109K and a return to a bullish structure.

BTC Total ETF Flows for 1 Jun: (Data not available at the time of writing)

(ETF flow data is sourced from https://farside.co.uk/btc/ and reflects figures at the time of writing.)

To receive the Morning Note in your inbox, subscribe here: https://stormrake.substack.com/

*All prices are denominated in USD unless stated otherwise*

Written by Alexandar Artis

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No Advice Warning

The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.

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The Rake Review: May

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 19:17:19 +1000

May Marks Bitcoin’s Return — As the System Unravels

May proved what conviction looks like. As US debt soared past $37T, Bitcoin broke to new highs, reminding markets it’s not just resilient, it’s the alternative. In a system built on debt, Bitcoin isn’t reactionary. It’s the solution.

The Redemption Month; All Time Highs

April hinted at potential, May delivered.

Despite heavy macro headwinds, May opened with strength at $94K, before reclaiming the elusive $100K level for the first time since February. That milestone alone marked a psychological turning point, and the momentum that followed proved the bulls were firmly in control. Just weeks later, Bitcoin etched itself into the history books, printing a fresh all-time high just shy of $112K.

This wasn’t just another breakout, it was a statement.

And it came against a brutal backdrop: Q1 US GDP slowed more than expected, raising stagflation fears; Japanese 40-year bond yields surged to multi-decade highs; and a breach at Coinbase briefly rattled crypto sentiment. Tariff drama escalated once more, the US-China reprieve unravelled, the EU entered the fray, and in a bizarre legal twist, US courts blocked, then reinstated Trump-era tariffs.

Yet Bitcoin remained strong throughout the month and closed green.

Traditional indices, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, ended May in the green, reflecting a broader risk-on tone. Gold, by contrast, remained largely flat, showing neither fear nor fervour. But Bitcoin? Bitcoin stole the show. It didn’t just participate in the rally, it led it. Each pullback was met with a strong bid. Market structure remained bullish. The conviction was clear.

Those who stayed the course during April’s retrace to $74.5K, those who kept accumulating into the fear, were rewarded in full.

This isn’t just a bounce. This is a shift. Bitcoin isn’t merely reacting to global trends anymore, it’s starting to drive them. It’s playing both sides of the narrative: risk asset and store of value, speculation and safety. As it breaks price barriers, it’s also breaking category boundaries. May might well be remembered not just for a new all-time high — but for what that high represents.

Bitcoin 2025 Las Vegas: Political Signals, Macro Realities and the Institutional Infiltration

Stormrake featured at Bitcoin 2025 Las Vegas, with CEO Michael, COO Bisher, and Senior Trader Nick representing on the ground. This year’s conference marked a distinct tonal shift, not just from innovation to adoption, but from ideology to inevitability. The conversations were bigger, the booths flashier, and the guest list packed with influence.

The presence of key political figures — including Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and Vice President JD Vance — underscored how deeply Bitcoin has entered the political bloodstream. Whether in public speeches or quiet side conversations, it became evident that governments are no longer dismissing Bitcoin. They are quietly figuring out how to own it. As Bisher put it, "Bitcoin adoption isn’t just going to be driven by cypherpunks and tech libertarians. It’s going to involve governments, banks, corporations and legacy institutions."

What’s unfolding is a full-spectrum integration. The idea of Bitcoin as an outsider asset is evaporating. The institutions are no longer coming. They're already here, and they’re building. Yet retail is still in its early innings. "We need to see retail step in before TradFi scoops up all the cheap sats," Bisher added. With Bitcoin now trading above $100K, and still under 7% of the global population having interacted with the network, the message was clear: we’re still early, but not for long.

Amid the fanfare, Lyn Alden delivered what may have been the conference’s defining moment. Her speech methodically dismantled the long-term sustainability of US fiscal policy. The federal government’s debt service costs are ballooning, not shrinking, and every attempt to rein in deficits simply results in more debt issuance. “If they raise rates, they borrow more to pay the interest. If they cut rates, inflation accelerates,” she explained. “There’s no clean way out.”

Her conclusion was stark. The fiat system is in its final chapter. The debt spiral can’t be stopped, only inflated away. And that’s exactly why Bitcoin has to rise. It’s the only major monetary asset that can’t be printed, diluted or manipulated by central banks. As Lyn framed it: “We’ve entered the last phase of the fiat cycle.” Or, in her words: “Nothing stops this train.”

That line landed with weight — not just as a macro thesis, but as a call to prepare. When the train is speeding toward systemic debasement, the smartest move isn’t to ride it out. It’s to step off the tracks and opt into a parallel system that can’t be manipulated.

That perspective resonated across the Stormrake desk. Alden’s session was a wake-up call, backed by data, showing why Bitcoin is not just an opportunity — it’s a necessity. In a world increasingly defined by debt and debanking, Bitcoin’s neutral, borderless, incorruptible nature becomes not just compelling, but critical.

Stormrake’s team gathered dozens of insights from the event floor:

Debanking is a global issue. Everyone’s affected — from retail investors trying to access crypto to high-level political figures. Bitcoin provides a monetary escape hatch.
Utility is scaling fast. As Nick noted, Bitcoin is already being used for everything from loans to services like golf bookings. Real-world application is catching up to ideology.
Amongst altcoin debates, one thing is clear: “BTC is the best. Chuck out the rest.”
The Lightning Network has made serious strides, becoming a frictionless way to send and receive Bitcoin for everyday transactions.
Even among the most prominent Bitcoiners, such as Dorsey and Saylor, there’s still debate: is Bitcoin a store of value or a medium of exchange? Bisher summarised it best: “It’s both, and that’s what makes it so powerful.”

Bitcoin 2025 wasn’t just a celebration. It was an acceleration. The discussions aren’t theoretical anymore. They're tactical, political and strategic. What used to be ideology is now policy. And as we push deeper into the digital monetary age, it’s becoming clear that Bitcoin isn’t disrupting finance anymore. It’s redefining it.

What Could June Have in Store for Bitcoin?

May has wrapped with an 11.1% gain — a strong monthly close by historical standards, but somewhat underwhelming in light of the new all-time high near $112K just ten days ago. Bitcoin now hovers above $100K, technically fragile and flirting with key support. What looked like a powerful breakout has softened into a pullback, and the market tone has shifted from euphoric to cautious.

June now arrives as the final chapter in the first half of 2025. Bitcoin began the year at $93.5K, and many expected to see it well north of $120K by this point. That narrative is in flux. With price structure now forming lower highs and a confirmed lower low, Bitcoin has broken its bullish structure and is teetering near the edge of a larger correction.

The zone between $98K and $101K — aligning with the 55-day EMA and an unfilled fair value gap — is the critical battleground. If it fails, the current pullback could deepen and challenge the broader uptrend. But if bulls defend this area, they may have the foundation for a recovery rally.

Source: https://www.tradingview.com/x/V2LrzdN8/

From a historical lens, June has delivered positive returns in 6 of the past 14 years, with an average return of 7.91%. If Bitcoin follows that average, a 7.91% gain from current levels would place it around $113K — back into all-time high territory and re-establishing bullish structure. Momentum above that level could clear the way to test $120K–122K, the next major psychological and structural resistance zone.

But June’s path won’t be defined by charts alone.

Macro Pressures and Trade Tensions

This month opens under the weight of intensifying trade disputes. On June 4, new US steel import duties are set to go live, marking a fresh escalation in tariff policy. The US Court of International Trade is also due to respond to the Trump-era Liberation tariffs appeal, with rulings expected between June 4–9. The Trump administration’s response will follow, potentially setting the tone for economic policy for the rest of the year — and possibly the election cycle.

Trump’s camp has already made it clear: if blocked, they’ll seek alternative channels to implement their trade agenda. This is less about specific policy details and more about broader uncertainty — a climate where risk assets like Bitcoin often thrive or dive, depending on the market’s risk appetite.

Meanwhile, the growing rift with China is expected to dominate the macro narrative into mid-month. Any escalation in tariffs or retaliatory rhetoric could inject volatility across global markets.

Breakdown or Breakout

June stands at a crossroads. Technically, Bitcoin is at risk of deeper correction, but it remains within reach of its recent highs. The key structural zone between $98K and $101K will be crucial — not just for short-term support, but for preserving the broader uptrend into the second half of the year.

Macro headwinds, including intensifying trade disputes and rising fiscal pressure, continue to shape the backdrop. The path from here may not be smooth — but the long-term direction of travel remains unchanged.

For long-term investors, these moments are less about market timing and more about strategic positioning. Pullbacks are not problems — they’re opportunities. Periods of weakness offer the chance to strengthen your allocation, reaffirm your thesis, and continue accumulating ahead of the next leg higher.

Conviction matters more than precision. The narrative is still unfolding — but the case for Bitcoin has never been clearer.

In the News:

US Credit Rating Downgraded for the First Time in History:

For the first time ever, the United States has lost its last remaining triple-A credit rating, with Moody’s citing its spiralling $37 trillion debt load and rising interest obligations. The downgrade reflects growing concern over Washington’s deteriorating fiscal discipline, noting that US debt levels are now significantly higher than those of similarly rated sovereigns. The implications are serious — higher borrowing costs for the government, increased rates across credit markets, and further strain on an already indebted global system. It’s another domino in the broader macro picture that reinforces why scarce, non-sovereign assets like Bitcoin continue to gain relevance.

Traditional Bitcoin Adoption Accelerates:

May wasn’t just about price discovery — it also marked a major leap forward in institutional Bitcoin adoption. Coinbase officially joined the S&P 500, becoming the first cryptocurrency company ever to be listed in the index. This means that every fund tracking the S&P now has indirect exposure to crypto, whether they realise it or not.

At the same time, corporates continued to stack. Gamestop disclosed a $500 million Bitcoin purchase, while Trump Media & Technology Group Corp announced plans to accumulate $2.5 billion worth. These balance sheet moves mirror a broader trend: sovereign and corporate treasuries are treating Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset. With the UAE and Pakistan also stepping in to establish national Bitcoin reserves, the message is clear — you're not bullish enough.

Australia Sparks Legal Debate on Bitcoin and Capital Gains Tax:

In a groundbreaking legal case, a Victorian magistrate challenged Bitcoin’s classification as property under Australian tax law, arguing instead that Bitcoin should be treated as money. Since a 2014 ruling, Bitcoin has been subject to capital gains tax (CGT) in Australia, similar to property. However, if Bitcoin were officially recognised as a foreign currency or legal tender, CGT would no longer apply — just as it doesn’t when converting between foreign fiat currencies. While the judge doesn’t have the authority to change legislation, the case has opened the door to a broader regulatory debate. It could eventually force higher courts — and lawmakers — to reconsider Bitcoin’s legal and financial status within Australia’s tax system.

Market Update:

Here is the fast five of what you need to know about the market in May 2025:

Bitcoin rose by 11.1% in May.
Ethereum stole the show, up 41.1% in May.
Tron flipping Cardano was the only change inside the top 10 this month.
The total crypto market cap grew by 10.31% to $3.23 trillion.
Hyperliquid was the dominant crypto outside of the top 10, outshining all majors and increasing by 64.4%.

Video of the month:

'Nothing Stops This Train' w/ Lyn Alden | Bitcoin 2025

Education: The Debt Spiral and Why Bitcoin Is the Lifeboat

The U.S. government is now operating inside a pressure cooker of its own making.

As of May, national debt has surged past $37 trillion, with interest payments now exceeding $1 trillion annually — more than defence or Medicare. The debt-to-GDP ratio has breached 133%, and the latest spending bills are set to expand deficits even further in the years ahead. These figures aren’t just big — they’re systemically unsustainable.

As Lyn Alden made clear at Bitcoin 2025, the US is no longer managing debt — it’s managing optics. The economic machine now runs on borrowed time and borrowed money. Every option leads back to the same outcome: a larger debt pile, and increasing dependence on currency debasement to keep the machine running.

“Raise interest rates and the government borrows more to cover the cost. Cut rates and inflation takes over. Either way, debt continues growing.” — Lyn Alden

The Fork in the Road: Control vs Reality

The US has made its choice — austerity is off the table. Instead of confronting the core issue, policymakers are focused on rigging demand for Treasuries and suppressing long-term yields to avoid a debt servicing crisis. Among the strategies being pursued:

Adjusting Supplementary Leverage Ratio (SLR) rules to force banks to hold more Treasuries.
Proposing legislation that requires stablecoin issuers to back tokens with US government debt.
Promoting narratives that GDP can outpace debt growth — not through productivity, but through inflation-driven nominal gains.

In short, they're not solving the problem — they're masking it. The result is a deliberate currency debasement strategy, dressed up as financial engineering.

Bitcoin: Designed for This Environment

This macro backdrop is exactly what Bitcoin was designed for.

As trust in traditional monetary policy erodes, capital begins seeking alternatives. Bitcoin offers a monetary system outside of government control, one that cannot be inflated away or manipulated to serve political agendas. It is decentralised, scarce, and transparent — everything the fiat system increasingly is not.

Bitcoin is no longer just a speculative asset. It’s becoming a strategic allocation for institutions, corporations, and sovereigns alike. Its function is not just to grow wealth, but to preserve it — especially in a world where fiat assets guarantee long-term real losses.

“Bitcoin is doing what bonds used to do — protecting capital in an age of monetary dysfunction.”

Urgency in Rotation

Investors anchored to traditional assets — government bonds, cash deposits, unhedged real estate — are facing a new reality: their value is eroding in real terms. Monetary policy is no longer aimed at stability. It’s aimed at survival.

Smart capital is already rotating — not because of panic, but because of structural logic. When trust in fiat wavers and inflation eats at purchasing power, capital naturally moves into assets that are neutral, scarce and outside the system.

How Stormrake Can Help

At Stormrake, our mission is simple: to help people escape the failing fiat system and transition into a sound, sovereign monetary future through Bitcoin.

In a world burdened by unsustainable debt, policy dysfunction, and ongoing currency debasement, Bitcoin isn’t just an asset — it’s a way out. But accessing it with security, confidence, and strategy isn’t always easy. That’s where we come in.

We offer individuals, SMSFs, trusts, and corporate entities a direct avenue to gain Bitcoin exposure — with seamless execution, deep liquidity, and access to institutional-grade custody. Whether you're allocating for the first time or building on an existing position, Stormrake is built to serve serious investors with precision and security.

Bitcoin offers an escape — but more importantly, it offers a path forward. A chance to opt into a better system.

The system is shifting. The train is moving. Are you going to stay on — or step off and choose something better?

Written by Alexandar Artis

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Tariffs Stall Bitcoin's Bull Run

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:47:39 +1000

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May is drawing to a close, and it’s been a strong month for Bitcoin—multiple new all-time highs punctuated a bullish run. However, renewed tariff fears have resurfaced, casting a shadow over an otherwise positive month.

Over the past week, Bitcoin surged to a new all-time high just shy of $112K. But that momentum was abruptly halted when Trump announced sweeping tariffs on the entire European Union. Despite a pause being placed on their implementation, the damage to sentiment was already done. The market struggled to regain its bullish footing and has since continued its pullback—now down 7% from the highs. With fresh tariff headlines emerging overnight, this retracement looks set to continue.

Rising Trade Tensions and Tariff Escalations

Overnight, we’ve seen a flurry of announcements pointing to renewed friction between the US and China. President Trump has doubled steel tariffs—from 25% to 50%—and the rhetoric is intensifying.

US Trade Representative Greer labelled China’s behaviour “completely unacceptable,” expressing serious concerns over Beijing’s trade non-compliance. Trump followed up by accusing China of having “totally violated its agreement with us,” with reports suggesting the US is preparing broader technology sanctions targeting Chinese subsidiaries.

In what appears to be a total breakdown of recent trade progress, Trump declared, “So much for being Mr. Nice Guy.” This follows just two weeks after the US and China had struck a major tariff reduction agreement. Adding fuel to the fire, the US recently halted exports of chip software and jet engine technology to China, significantly escalating tensions.

What June Might Hold for Bitcoin

Historically, June has been a mixed bag for Bitcoin—bullish in six out of the past fourteen years. But this June is expected to begin under the shadow of intensifying trade disputes. Tariff talk, the increase in steel import duties, potential resumption of EU tariffs, and the growing rift with China will likely dominate the macro narrative in the first half of the month.

While these macro headwinds have clearly stalled Bitcoin’s upward momentum, the current 7% drawdown still qualifies as a pullback rather than a deeper correction—for now. As long as BTC holds the $100K–$101K zone, which is backed by strong demand, the larger bullish structure remains intact.

Stormrake Spotlight: Bittensor (TAO) ($370)

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/PH92Kb3B/

TAO has fallen 11% since yesterdays morning note and has created a new lower low officially confirming a bearish structure. TAO must reverse and reclaim the key level that was $390 quickly, otherwise a sustained move below this level will likely send TAO lower. TAO will continue to follow Bitcoin and the broader market, so it will rely on Bitcoin to reverse.

BTC/USD Key Levels and Price Action:

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/3E9Acr4F/

There’s currently nothing bullish about Bitcoin’s short-term chart—bears are firmly in control of both structure and momentum. BTC is grappling with a key support zone around $104K, though it's unlikely to hold. Attention now shifts to the crucial levels at $100K and the CPR at $101.7K. These must hold to preserve the larger bullish narrative.

The good news? There’s substantial demand in that lower range—offering bulls a fighting chance. But make no mistake, it’s shaping up to be a battle.

BTC Total ETF Flows for 30 May: $ - 185.3 million

(ETF flow data is sourced from https://farside.co.uk/btc/ and reflects figures at the time of writing.)

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*All prices are denominated in USD unless stated otherwise*

Written by Alexandar Artis

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No Advice Warning

The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.

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Tariff Whiplash: Court Reinstates Trump’s Tariffs

Fri, 30 May 2025 14:30:20 +1000

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Just 24 hours after the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Trump’s tariffs—ruling them illegal under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act—the narrative flipped. Today, those same tariffs have been temporarily reinstated. The Trump administration swiftly appealed, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington granted a stay, pausing Wednesday’s decision.

The plaintiffs have until June 5 to respond, and the U.S. government must reply by June 9.

This about-face only deepens the confusion that’s surrounded the tariff saga in recent months. And markets felt it. Bitcoin sentiment dropped 14 points, from a high of 74—on the brink of extreme greed—down to 60. The price slipped 2% on the day, but this wasn’t the only weight on BTC's shoulders.

The ‘Hyperliquid Whale’ Liquidation Hunt

James Wynn—a rising crypto personality on X with nearly 250k followers—has become infamous for his aggressive leverage trading on Hyperliquid. His account had ballooned to over $80 million in profit, earning him the nickname “Hyperliquid Whale.”

But his latest move—a 40x leverage long on Bitcoin, worth nearly $800 million—painted a giant target on his back. Adding fuel to the fire, Wynn tweeted that $80 million “isn’t generational wealth”, telling people to “stay in their lane” while he traded billion-dollar positions.

Source:https://hyperdash.info/trader/0x5078c2fbea2b2ad61bc840bc023e35fce56bedb6

The bears pounced. His long was entered when BTC was above $108K. In a coordinated effort, market makers and short-sellers began pushing price lower to trigger liquidation. The result? His PnL swung from $82 million in profit to over $14 million in losses—a jaw-dropping $100 million reversal.

Despite attempts to defend the position by increasing size and lowering his liquidation level, the bears pushed BTC under $105K, securing the takedown.

This is a textbook case in the dangers of leverage. Generational wealth can disappear in a single misstep. Those who bought spot BTC at $108K are sitting on a modest drawdown—Wynn, meanwhile, has suffered catastrophic losses due to leverage.

At Stormrake, we continue to advocate for spot exposure. It eliminates liquidation risk entirely. No margin calls. No sleepless nights.

Macro Meets Liquidations: Bears Regain Control

The confluence of macro uncertainty and a targeted liquidation event has put crypto markets on the back foot. Bears have reclaimed structure after BTC failed to print a new higher high and has now formed a lower low.

This is currently a pullback, not yet a full correction. But to avoid deeper downside, BTC must hold above $101K.

Stormrake Spotlight: Bittensor (TAO) ($405)

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/5KLCNccC/

TAO has mirrored the broader market decline, dropping over 7% in the past 24 hours. It’s now approaching a key support level at $390. A break below that level would confirm a bearish market structure.

BTC/USD Key Levels and Price Action:

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/y08DlZWN/

Following the break of the key blue support level, bears have clearly taken control of the structure, with a series of lower highs and lower lows confirming the shift in momentum. Immediate support now lies at $104K, while the critical level to hold is $101K. Should this level give way, a deeper correction could follow.

For the bulls to regain control, Bitcoin must not only reclaim all major moving averages but also break back above the key resistance level of $109.5K.

BTC Total ETF Flows for 29 May: $ - 471.9 million

(ETF flow data is sourced from https://farside.co.uk/btc/ and reflects figures at the time of writing.)

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*All prices are denominated in USD unless stated otherwise*

Written by Alexandar Artis

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No Advice Warning

The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.

Disclaimer

Trump’s Tariffs Blocked by Federal Court

Fri, 30 May 2025 14:23:50 +1000

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The U.S. Court of International Trade has struck down Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs, ruling they were unlawfully imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The dramatic trade measures—launched with Trump’s trademark fanfare—triggered short-term market volatility, but have now been rendered legally void. For contrarians, it was a chance to accumulate. As the dust settles, the broader takeaway is clear: even with Trump back in the Oval Office and executive orders flying, institutional checks still matter.

Bitcoin caught a brief relief bid on the ruling, but still closed the day in the red. With the courts blocking the tariffs, the real question is whether markets will still react bearishly to future trade posturing, or whether legal pushback has now been priced in.

BTC2025 Las Vegas: Political Power Meets Protocol

BTC2025 is underway in Las Vegas, and it’s not just crypto-native voices taking the stage. Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of Pakistan’s Crypto Council, announced the country already holds Bitcoin and has no plans to sell—aiming instead to establish a BTC strategic reserve.

Vice President JD Vance also took the spotlight, delivering one of the strongest political endorsements for Bitcoin yet. He called for immediate passage of the market structure bill and pledged a Trump administration would “fire anti-crypto regulators.” Crucially, Vance rejected the idea that Bitcoin competes with the dollar, instead describing BTC as a strategic asset for the United States—with over 100 million Americans soon to own some. The message: institutional alignment is coming.

US-China: From Handshakes to Hard Lines

Just two weeks after a tariff détente between the US and China, tensions have spiked again. Overnight, the US ordered chip designers to halt sales to China, paused exports of chip software and jet engine tech, and began revoking visas of Chinese students allegedly linked to the Communist Party or studying in sensitive fields.

Quite the contrast from the 90-day tariff truce we saw earlier this month. Now the question is—how, and when, will China respond?

Stormrake Spotlight: Bittensor (TAO) ($435)

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/morZtWqT/

TAO lost 3% yesterday, slipping back below CPR support. But once again, the 21EMA is proving dependable, holding firm as short-term support. TAO remains stuck in a broad consolidation, though it continues to lean slightly bullish as long as the 21EMA holds. A push toward recent highs remains on the table.

BTC/USD Key Levels and Price Action:

Source:https://www.tradingview.com/x/GGQgn7UD/

Bitcoin bounced cleanly off key support, preserving the consolidation range it’s been in for nearly a week. The structure remains neutral, with a slight bearish tilt—momentum indicators are soft, and the 55EMA remains above the 21EMA.

Until a breakout or breakdown materialises, BTC stays rangebound. The next catalyst is what we wait for.

BTC Total ETF Flows for 28 May: $ - 48.3 million

(ETF flow data is sourced from https://farside.co.uk/btc/ and reflects figures at the time of writing.)

To receive the Morning Note in your inbox, subscribe here: https://stormrake.substack.com/

*All prices are denominated in USD unless stated otherwise*

Written by Alexandar Artis

Create a brokerage account today

Get Started

No Advice Warning

The information in this newsletter is general only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the author - Stormrake PTY LTD.