XLM extends recovery amid rising Open Interest


TL;DR

  • XLM is trading higher on Thursday after defending key support levels earlier this week.
  • Rising Open Interest (OI) and positive funding rates suggest fresh capital is flowing into both markets.
  • XLM remains below major resistance levels despite showing signs that bearish momentum is fading.

Stellar’s XLM continues its recovery on Thursday, supported by improving derivatives metrics and stabilizing technical indicators after the cryptocurrency defended key support levels earlier in the week.

Open Interest climbs as traders return

Derivatives data points to renewed confidence among market participants. According to CoinGlass, XLM Open Interest climbed from $153 million on Monday to around $195 million, up 25% in the last 24 hours.

The simultaneous rise in prices and Open Interest suggests fresh capital is entering the market rather than traders simply closing positions. This typically signals strengthening conviction behind the current recovery.

Market sentiment has also improved across perpetual futures markets. XLM recorded positive funding rates after turning positive on Tuesday.

Positive funding rates indicate that traders holding long positions are paying a premium to maintain their exposure, reflecting growing bullish sentiment.

While derivatives indicators have strengthened, on-chain metrics paint a mixed picture. CryptoQuant indicates that XLM continues to experience selling-side dominance across both spot and derivatives markets, suggesting larger traders remain hesitant despite the recent rebound.

This imbalance could limit the pace of any sustained upside move.

XLM technical analysis: Recovery faces multiple technical barriers

Stellar traded around $0.189 on Thursday after bouncing from support near $0.177.

However, XLM continues to trade below the 50-day EMA at $0.190 and the 200-day EMA at $0.196

The token is currently hovering just above its 100-day EMA at $0.187, providing immediate support.

Momentum indicators suggest buyers are gradually returning but remain cautious. The RSI is near 49, reflecting neutral momentum without a clear bullish bias.

Meanwhile, the MACD remains slightly below zero, indicating bearish pressure has weakened but has not fully disappeared.

If the rally persists, the first major resistance lies at the 50-day EMA of $0.190. A decisive break above this level will expose higher hurdles at $0.196 (200-day EMA) and $0.218.

A sustained move above $0.200 would strengthen the case for a broader recovery.

However, if the bearish trend resumes, the bulls would need to instantly defend the $0.187 support level.

Failure to defend this support could see XLM retest lower demand zones at $0.177 and $0.142 in the near term. 

XLM/USD 4H Chart

XLM is showing encouraging signs of recovery as derivatives activity strengthens and funding rates turn positive. 

However, XLM continues to face heavier selling pressure from larger market participants.

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Cardano whales accumulate as van Rossem hard fork fuels recovery hopes


Key takeaways

  • Cardano (ADA) traded near $0.161 on Thursday after a slight pullback, while whale wallets continued accumulating tokens.
  • Wallets holding 100,000 to 100 million ADA have reached their highest holdings since February 2023, while smaller investors have reduced exposure.
  • The upcoming van Rossem hard fork, scheduled for Saturday, could act as a catalyst for ADA’s next move.

Cardano (ADA) edged lower on Thursday, trading around $0.161 after facing mild selling pressure the previous session. 

Despite the pullback, on-chain and derivatives data indicate that investor sentiment is gradually improving as large holders continue to accumulate the cryptocurrency ahead of a key network upgrade.

The combination of growing whale activity, strengthening derivatives metrics, and the upcoming van Rossem hard fork has increased expectations that ADA could stage a broader recovery if it breaks key resistance levels.

Whales continue accumulating ADA

On-chain data from Santiment shows a clear divergence between large and small Cardano holders.

Wallets holding between 100,000 and 100 million ADA now collectively own more than 25.65 billion ADA, the highest level since February 2023.

In contrast, wallets holding fewer than 100 ADA have reduced their holdings by roughly 0.7% over the past four months.

The trend suggests institutional investors and high-net-worth holders continue accumulating Cardano while retail investors remain cautious. Historically, sustained whale accumulation has often preceded periods of stronger price performance.

Cardano’s development roadmap also received a boost this week. Intersect, the member-based organization supporting the Cardano ecosystem, confirmed on Wednesday that the van Rossem hard fork will be activated on Saturday following governance ratification earlier this week.

The upgrade introduces new Plutus functionality alongside protocol enhancements designed to improve smart contract performance, developer capabilities, and overall network efficiency.

The hard fork could provide a near-term catalyst by strengthening Cardano’s ecosystem and increasing confidence among developers and investors.

Futures market activity also points to strengthening investor confidence.

According to CoinGlass, Cardano futures Open Interest (OI) has increased from approximately $422 million on Monday to $445 million on Thursday.

Rising Open Interest alongside stabilizing prices generally indicates that fresh capital is entering the market rather than traders simply closing existing positions.

Meanwhile, ADA’s funding rate has turned positive, reaching 0.0042%, suggesting traders holding long positions are once again willing to pay a premium to maintain their exposure.

Positive funding rates typically reflect improving market sentiment and growing expectations for higher prices.

Cardano price forecast: ADA still faces major resistance

Despite improving fundamentals, Cardano remains technically constrained. ADA continues to trade below several major moving averages, preserving the broader bearish market structure.

Cardano remains below the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $0.179, the 100-day EMA ($0.208), and the 200-day EMA ($0.276)

The token is also trading beneath the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement level at $0.173, while the broader downtrend remains intact below the trendline resistance near $0.207.

Momentum indicators present a mixed picture. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is near 46, indicating neutral momentum without signaling either overbought or oversold conditions.

Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) has turned slightly positive, suggesting bearish momentum is easing, although buying pressure remains too weak to confirm a sustained trend reversal.

If bulls regain momentum, the next resistance levels include $0.179 (50-day EMA), $0.207–$0.208  (Trendline resistance and 100-day EMA), and $0.2135 (50% Fibonacci retracement).

A successful break above the $0.207–$0.208 region would significantly improve Cardano’s medium-term outlook.

ADA/USD 4H Chart

On the downside, traders should watch the immediate support level at $0.1500. Failure to defend this level could see ADA retest the June 25 swing low of $0.1382. 

Cardano’s improving fundamentals are beginning to contrast with its still-cautious technical picture. Whale accumulation, rising Open Interest, and positive funding rates suggest confidence is gradually returning, while the upcoming van Rossem hard fork provides an additional potential catalyst.

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PI holds key support as bulls eye a rebound toward $0.10

Key takeaways

  • Pi Network (PI) is stabilizing above $0.07500 after more than two weeks of sustained selling pressure.
  • Improving crypto market sentiment following softer U.S. inflation has boosted speculative interest in PI.
  • PI open interest climbed from $9.11 million to $12.14 million, signaling renewed trader participation.

Pi Network (PI) traded above $0.07500 on Wednesday, showing early signs of stabilizing after more than two weeks of persistent losses.

The token’s recovery comes as broader cryptocurrency markets rebounded following softer-than-expected U.S. inflation data, improving investor sentiment and encouraging renewed interest in higher-risk digital assets.

Although PI remains in a broader downtrend, technical indicators suggest bearish momentum may be weakening.

Improving market sentiment boosts risk appetite

The latest U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report helped ease concerns over additional Federal Reserve interest rate hikes, reducing pressure on risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.

As market sentiment improved, investors showed greater willingness to return to speculative assets such as Pi Network.

CoinMarketCap’s Crypto Fear and Greed Index rose to 35 on Wednesday from 28 on Monday, reflecting a noticeable decline in market fear and improving investor confidence.

Historically, rising risk appetite has often supported increased trading activity in speculative cryptocurrencies.

Derivatives data points to growing interest in Pi Network. According to CoinAnk, PI futures open interest increased from $9.11 million to approximately $12.14 million over the past day.

The sharp increase suggests traders are opening new positions rather than closing existing ones, indicating renewed confidence and stronger speculative demand.

While rising open interest alone does not guarantee higher prices, it often supports increased market liquidity and stronger price momentum when accompanied by improving sentiment.

Pi Network technical analysis: Can PI reclaim $0.1000?

From a technical perspective, Pi Network is attempting to build a base near $0.07500, where a descending support trendline forming part of a falling channel continues to hold.

A Doji candlestick formed near this support during the previous trading session, signaling indecision between buyers and sellers and potentially marking the beginning of a short-term reversal.

The 161.8% Fibonacci extension at $0.06793, measured from the decline between $0.1998 and $0.1183, reinforces this support zone and increases the likelihood of a technical rebound.

If buying momentum strengthens, PI could target the following resistance levels:

  • $0.09613 – 127.2% Fibonacci extension
  • $0.1000 – Psychological resistance level

A decisive move above $0.09613 would significantly improve the short-term outlook and increase the probability of a recovery toward $0.1000.

Although Pi Network remains within a broader bearish trend, momentum indicators suggest downside pressure may be becoming exhausted.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has fallen to around 21, placing the token deep in oversold territory. Such readings often indicate that selling has become excessive and that a relief rally could emerge if buyers return.

Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains below its signal line, confirming that the broader trend is still bearish. However, the indicator also suggests bearish momentum may be weakening after the recent decline.

The most important downside support remains the 161.8% Fibonacci extension at $0.06793.

PI/USD 4H Chart

A daily close below this level would invalidate the current rebound scenario and could trigger a new phase of price discovery to the downside.

As long as PI holds above this support, the possibility of a recovery toward $0.09613 and eventually $0.1000 remains intact.

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Solana reclaims the 50-day EMA as bulls target a breakout above $81.50

Key takeaways

  • Solana (SOL) has rebounded above its 50-day EMA at $76.82 after a 4% rally.
  • Rising futures trading volume and positive funding rates point to growing bullish sentiment among retail traders.
  • Solana ETFs have recorded two consecutive days of zero inflows, signaling muted institutional demand.

Solana (SOL) extended its recovery on Wednesday, climbing above its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) after gaining roughly 4% in the previous session.

The rebound comes as improving sentiment across the cryptocurrency market encourages renewed retail participation, while institutional investors remain cautious despite the broader market rally.

Retail traders return to Solana futures

Recent derivatives data suggests retail traders are becoming more optimistic about Solana’s short-term outlook.

According to CoinGlass, SOL futures open interest has remained stable at approximately $4.91 billion over the past 24 hours, indicating traders are maintaining existing leveraged positions rather than exiting the market.

Meanwhile, futures trading volume jumped 15% to around $6.90 billion, reflecting stronger market activity and continued position building.

Adding to the positive outlook, Solana’s funding rate remains in positive territory at approximately 0.0040%, suggesting traders are willing to pay a premium to maintain long positions—a sign that bullish sentiment is strengthening among retail participants.

While retail activity has improved, institutional demand has yet to show similar strength.

Data from SoSoValue indicates that Solana exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have recorded two consecutive trading sessions with zero net inflows this week.

The lack of fresh ETF investment suggests traditional investors are adopting a wait-and-see approach despite the recent rebound in cryptocurrency prices.

This divergence between retail enthusiasm and institutional caution could influence the sustainability of Solana’s recovery.

Solana price analysis: $81.50 remains key breakout level

From a technical perspective, Solana has strengthened after reclaiming its 50-day EMA at $76.82.

The token is also trading above the 50% Fibonacci retracement level at $76.92, measured from the decline between $98.41 and $60.13, reinforcing the improving short-term structure.

However, SOL continues to face significant resistance from a descending trendline positioned near $81.50, while the 200-day EMA at $94.52 remains a major long-term barrier.

A decisive daily close above $81.50 would confirm a breakout from the prevailing downtrend and could trigger a move toward the $88.56 resistance and the 200-day EMA at $94.52.

Technical indicators suggest bullish momentum is slowly building. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is hovering around 54, indicating modest buying pressure without entering overbought territory.

Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is approaching a bullish crossover near its signal line, reflecting a neutral-to-positive momentum shift that could support additional upside if buying pressure continues.

SOL/USD 4H Chart

If Solana encounters renewed selling pressure, traders will likely monitor the following support levels:

  • 50-day EMA: $76.82
  • Previous ascending trendline: $68.88
  • Cycle low: $60.13

Holding above the 50-day EMA would help preserve the current recovery, while a break below it could expose SOL to a deeper pullback toward the lower support zones.

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KuCoin unveils Celestia Stage as Tomorrowland Belgium 2026 partnership expands

  • KuCoin launches Celestia Stage at Tomorrowland Belgium 2026.
  • Partnership blends crypto, music and immersive storytelling experiences.
  • More artists and community activations will be announced soon.

Cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin has unveiled the Celestia Stage at Tomorrowland Belgium 2026, marking a new phase in its multi-year strategic partnership with the global electronic music festival.

The announcement reinforces KuCoin’s role as Tomorrowland’s Official Exclusive Crypto Exchange and Crypto Payments Partner.

According to the company, the collaboration extends beyond traditional sponsorship and aims to create an immersive experience centered on trust, innovation, and community.

The Celestia Stage is designed to reflect the shared vision of both organizations, bringing together music, technology and storytelling while highlighting themes of transformation, curiosity and human connection.

Celestia Stage draws inspiration from Tomorrowland’s mythology

According to KuCoin, the new stage is inspired by the legend of Celestia in the Tomorrowland universe and takes the form of a celestial butterfly, symbolizing transformation, growth and new beginnings.

The stage combines organic landscapes, crystalline structures and digital design elements to create an environment where nature and technology coexist.

Throughout the festival, KuCoin Guardians will also appear across the venue as part of an interactive storytelling experience intended to extend the Celestia theme beyond the stage itself.

KuCoin said the project reflects its broader ambition of positioning itself as a trusted guide in digital finance, making innovation more accessible to users while emphasizing trust as a core principle.

Commenting on the partnership, BC Wong, CEO of KuCoin, said:

“Tomorrowland has always inspired people to discover something beyond themselves through music, creativity and imagination. That philosophy closely reflects our own vision. At KuCoin, we believe trust is what empowers people to embrace the future with confidence. Celestia is much more than a stage. It is a shared symbol of transformation, curiosity and connection. Together with Tomorrowland, we hope to create an experience where innovation feels approachable, communities feel connected, and every visitor is inspired to explore what comes next.”

Partnership brings together music and digital finance

Tomorrowland has built a global audience over nearly two decades through electronic music and large-scale live experiences.

KuCoin said it shares a similar community-focused approach, noting that its platform now serves more than 40 million users across over 200 countries and regions.

The exchange said the partnership aims to demonstrate how culture, technology and digital finance can come together through shared experiences rather than conventional brand sponsorship.

KuCoin added that it sees trust as the foundation for wider participation in the digital economy and believes the Celestia Stage reflects that vision by combining entertainment with interactive engagement.

More festival details to be announced

Throughout Tomorrowland Belgium 2026, the Celestia Stage will host an electronic music program alongside immersive artistic installations and storytelling experiences based on the Celestia narrative.

Festival attendees will also encounter KuCoin Guardians across the festival grounds as part of the activation.

KuCoin said additional details, including the full artist lineup, immersive stage experiences and community activations, will be announced in the coming weeks as the partnership continues to develop throughout the festival.

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