In 2024, the crypto world is abuzz with talk of institutional adoption. The approval of spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds in the U.S. has marked a significant milestone in bringing crypto into the mainstream. Companies are increasingly showing interest in adding bitcoin to their treasuries, further solidifying its position in the financial landscape.
Bitcoin has seen a remarkable surge of almost 130% this year, reaching record highs and currently hovering around the $100,000 mark. The approval of ETFs in January has led to significant inflows, with over 1 million BTC amassed and net inflows of $36 billion.
The trend of companies adding bitcoin to their treasuries is gaining momentum, with more publicly traded companies following in the footsteps of pioneers like MicroStrategy. One notable example is KULR Technology, based in Houston, Texas, which recently announced the purchase of 217.18 BTC for $21 million, allocating up to 90% of its surplus cash to bitcoin.
Bitwise Asset Management, a key player in the crypto space, has applied for an ETF that tracks the shares of companies holding at least 1,000 BTC in their treasuries. This new fund, named Bitwise Bitcoin Standard Corporations ETF, sets certain criteria for inclusion, such as a market capitalization of at least $100 million and a minimum average daily liquidity of $1 million.
Another interesting development comes from Strive Asset Management, co-founded by Vivek Ramaswamy, a former politician in the Trump administration. Their Bitcoin Bond ETF aims to provide exposure to bitcoin through derivative instruments like MicroStrategy’s convertible securities. These bitcoin bonds have proven to be a successful investment, outperforming bitcoin since their inception.
Matt Cole, CEO of Strive, emphasized the long-term investment potential of bitcoin in light of global economic challenges like inflation and geopolitical tensions. He believes that bitcoin bonds offer an attractive risk-return profile for investors seeking exposure to the digital asset.
Overall, the year 2024 is shaping up to be a transformative period for crypto, with institutional adoption driving significant growth and innovation in the space. As more companies and asset managers embrace bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, the mainstream acceptance of digital assets is rapidly becoming a reality. the perspective of an expert on the benefits of meditation for overall well-being:
Meditation has been practiced for centuries as a way to cultivate inner peace, focus, and relaxation. In recent years, scientific research has shown that meditation can have a profound impact on our overall well-being, both mentally and physically.
One of the key benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress. When we meditate, we activate the body’s relaxation response, which helps to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This can lead to a sense of calm and tranquility, as well as a decrease in anxiety and tension.
In addition to reducing stress, meditation has also been shown to improve focus and concentration. By practicing mindfulness meditation, we can train our minds to stay present and focused on the task at hand, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in our daily lives.
Meditation has also been linked to improved mental health. Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as improve mood and overall well-being. By cultivating a sense of awareness and acceptance, meditation can help us to better cope with the challenges and stresses of everyday life.
On a physical level, meditation has been shown to have numerous health benefits. It can lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and reduce inflammation in the body. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, meditation can also help to alleviate chronic pain and improve sleep quality.
Overall, the benefits of meditation for overall well-being are vast and well-documented. By incorporating a regular meditation practice into our daily routine, we can experience improved mental clarity, reduced stress, and enhanced physical health. Whether you are new to meditation or have been practicing for years, taking the time to sit quietly and focus on your breath can have a profound impact on your overall well-being.