✅ Skale AMA

Lightning Pizza Day is an annual event celebrating the use of Bitcoin’s Lightning Network for fast and low-cost transactions. Inspired by the famous Bitcoin Pizza Day —when Laszlo Hanyecz made the first recorded purchase with Bitcoin by buying two pizzas for 10,000 BTC in 2010 — Lightning Pizza Day highlights the evolution of Bitcoin payments, specifically through the Lightning Network, which enables instant, scalable transactions with minimal fees. Why is Lightning Pizza Day important? The event showcases the real-world adoption of Bitcoin as a daily payment method, emphasizing how the Lightning Network has transformed Bitcoin from a store of value into a practical means of exchange. It also encourages businesses, developers, and crypto enthusiasts to explore and support the Lightning Network ecosystem. How to celebrate? - Buy a pizza using Bitcoin’s Lightning Network through platforms that accept Lightning payments. - Promote Lightning Network adoption by sharing your experience on social media. - Join discussions and AMAs about the impact of the Lightning Network on Bitcoin scalability. - Explore Lightning apps (LApps) and services that integrate with the network. Lightning Pizza Day is a fun and engaging way to support Bitcoin innovation while enjoying a slice of pizza! 🍕⚡

Expiration of the Bitcoin CME futures contract for February 2025.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) sets U.S. monetary policy, deciding on interest rates and economic strategies. Scheduled for June 17-18, 2025, this meeting comes at a pivotal time for crypto, with Bitcoin hovering above $108,000 and the total market cap at $3.38T. Markets expect rates to stay steady at 4.25%-4.5%, with a 99.9% probability of no change, per the CME FedWatch Tool. A surprise rate cut could spark a Bitcoin rally toward $112,000, while a hawkish tone might trigger a dip. Trump’s tariff policies add uncertainty, as they could influence inflation and Fed decisions. Crypto’s sensitivity to macro events makes this a must-watch. Recent NewsThe crypto market has been on a wild ride in 2025. Bitcoin surged past $109,000 in January, driven by institutional inflows and pro-crypto U.S. policies, but corrected in February due to exploits and meme coin crashes. Meanwhile, the Senate advanced a bipartisan stablecoin bill, backed by Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, which could boost dollar-pegged assets and U.S. debt demand. Trump’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, holding seized BTC and other tokens, signals growing government adoption. These developments, alongside the Fed’s $500B liquidity increase since February, have fueled bullish sentiment. Future Plans & Market ContextLooking ahead, analysts predict Bitcoin could hit $150,000 in 2025 if pro-crypto policies like the stablecoin bill and Bitcoin reserve expand. The Fed’s next moves are critical: dovish signals could accelerate risk-on assets like crypto, while tighter policy might slow growth. Stablecoin issuers must hold dollar-for-dollar reserves, potentially impacting smaller banks but enabling larger ones to issue their own tokens. Crypto’s integration into mainstream finance is accelerating, with Democrats also warming to the industry. Community SentimentOn X, crypto traders are buzzing about the FOMC meeting. Sentiment is mixed: some expect a Bitcoin pump if Powell signals rate cuts, while others fear tariff-driven inflation could delay easing. Influencers like @CryptoAnalystX highlight $108K as a key support level. Stablecoin bill hype is strong, with users praising its potential to legitimize crypto. However, no clear consensus exists on the Fed’s next move, reflecting market uncertainty. Why It MattersThe Fed’s decisions ripple across global markets, impacting crypto’s risk appetite. A steady-rate outcome could stabilize BTC above $108K, while surprises could swing prices 5-10%. Stablecoin regulation and Bitcoin reserves add tailwinds, but macro uncertainty keeps traders on edge. Risk DisclaimerFOMC meetings often spark volatility. Leverage traders risk liquidations, and sudden policy shifts could trigger sharp corrections. Always DYOR and manage risk carefully.

The Initial Jobless Claims report, released weekly by the U.S. Department of Labor, tracks the number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits for the first time. For the week ending June 7, claims held steady at 248,000, above economists’ expectations of 242,000. Forecasts for June 18 project claims rising to 250,000, signaling a softening labor market. A weakening job market could push the Federal Reserve toward looser monetary policy, like rate cuts, which often boosts risk assets like Bitcoin. Conversely, stable or lower claims might keep the Fed cautious, pressuring crypto prices. This report, alongside the FOMC interest rate decision on the same day, is a key driver of market sentiment.Recent NewsThe crypto market has been on edge with recent macroeconomic shifts. Bitcoin is trading at $105,751.62, with a $2.1 trillion market cap, but volatility persists due to geopolitical tensions and tariff concerns. Last week’s surprise uptick in May’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) added uncertainty, making this week’s jobless claims and FOMC decision critical. The labor market is increasingly a focal point for crypto traders, with analysts noting that rising claims often correlate with increased stablecoin activity as investors seek safer assets. The crypto space is bracing for potential price swings, with a deeper-than-expected claims increase possibly fueling a bullish BTC rally.Future Plans & Market ContextLooking ahead, the crypto market is gearing up for a potential altseason, with projects like Solana gaining traction via upcoming ETF launches. The jobless claims data could amplify or dampen this momentum. A weaker labor market might signal broader economic slowdown, pushing investors toward decentralized assets like Bitcoin as a hedge. Meanwhile, emerging projects like Neo Pepe Protocol ($NEOP) are drawing attention for their community-driven resistance to centralized finance, reflecting a broader shift toward transparency and decentralization. The FOMC’s rate decision will also set the tone for 2025’s second half, with crypto markets highly sensitive to Fed signals.Onchain DataOnchain metrics highlight Bitcoin’s resilience amid macro uncertainty. Glassnode data shows Bitcoin’s active addresses steady at ~800,000 daily, with transaction volumes holding firm at $20–25 billion per day over the past month. Stablecoin transfer volumes, a sign of risk-off behavior, spiked 15% in early June as jobless claims rose. While specific staking or wallet activity for this event isn’t directly applicable, increased stablecoin flows suggest investors are positioning for volatility.Community SentimentOn X, sentiment is mixed but leaning cautiously optimistic. Analyst @eyezonhour posted, “Labor market CRACKING → Initial jobless claims hit 248K… Weakness = Fed pivot = crypto moon,” reflecting bullish hopes for a rate-cut-driven rally. However, some users warn of short-term dips if claims don’t spike enough to force Fed action. The community is buzzing about Bitcoin’s role as a macro hedge, with #BTC trending alongside discussions of jobless claims and FOMC outcomes. Meme coins like Little Pepe (LILPEPE) are also gaining traction, showing retail enthusiasm persists despite macro headwinds.Why It MattersFor crypto enthusiasts, this report is a pulse-check on economic health. A higher-than-expected claims number could spark a BTC rally by signaling Fed rate cuts, while stability might keep markets range-bound. Altcoins like Ethereum and Solana often follow Bitcoin’s lead, making this a pivotal moment for portfolios. Investors should also watch stablecoin movements and onchain activity for clues on market direction.Risk DisclaimerMacroeconomic events can drive high volatility in crypto markets. While jobless claims data may signal opportunities, sudden price swings are possible. Always conduct your own research and consider your risk tolerance before trading.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will announce its interest rate decision on June 18 at 2:00 PM ET, followed by a press conference with Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The federal funds rate, currently at 4.25%–4.5%, has been steady since December 2024. Market expectations, per CME FedWatch, show a 70% chance of rates holding steady, with a 30% chance of a 25-basis-point cut. This decision aims to balance inflation (2.5% PCE in 2025) and unemployment (projected at 4.3%). A rate cut could boost liquidity, driving demand for risk assets like crypto, while a hold might temper bullish sentiment. Powell’s comments on tariffs and economic outlook will also sway markets.Recent NewsThe crypto market has been volatile amid macro uncertainties. Bitcoin hit $105,062.13 on June 14, up 27% over 90 days, with a $2.09T market cap. Ethereum and Solana have followed, fueled by ETF speculation and DeFi growth. The Fed’s December 2024 25-basis-point cut sparked $675M in crypto liquidations, showing sensitivity to rate changes. Trump’s tariff policies and geopolitical tensions, like Middle East conflicts, have raised inflation fears, pushing gold to $3,446/oz and boosting BTC as a hedge. Stablecoin volumes surged 15% in June, signaling risk-off moves.Future Plans & Market ContextThe Fed projects two rate cuts in 2025, likely in September and December, assuming inflation cools below 2.7% PCE. A dovish stance could propel Bitcoin past $110,000, with altcoins like ETH and SOL riding the wave. Crypto’s 0.75 correlation with equities suggests broader market sentiment will play a role. Projects like Neo Pepe Protocol ($NEOP) are gaining traction for their anti-centralization ethos, while Solana’s ETF prospects hint at altseason potential. Trump’s pro-crypto policies, effective post-inauguration, could amplify bullish trends.Onchain DataGlassnode reports Bitcoin’s daily active addresses at ~800,000, with $20–25B in transaction volume over the past month. Ethereum’s gas fees are stable, reflecting DeFi activity. Stablecoin transfers on Tether and USDC rose 15% in June, per Dune Analytics, indicating investors are hedging volatility. No direct staking data ties to this event, but increased onchain activity suggests market anticipation.Community SentimentX is abuzz with mixed vibes. @CryptoWizardd tweeted, “Fed holds = BTC dips to $100K, cuts = $120K by July,” capturing split predictions. Bulls like @eyezonhour see a cut sparking a rally, while bears warn of tariff-driven inflation curbing gains. #Bitcoin and #FOMC are trending, with meme coins like $LILPEPE reflecting retail hype. Sentiment leans cautiously bullish, with 60% of X posts favoring a rate-cut-driven upswing.Why It MattersThis decision shapes liquidity and risk appetite. A rate cut could fuel a crypto rally, especially for BTC and major altcoins, while a hold might lead to short-term dips. Newbies and pros alike should watch Powell’s tone and onchain flows for clues. Stablecoins and DeFi platforms like Aave offer safe havens during volatility.Risk DisclaimerMacro events like Fed decisions can trigger sharp price swings. Research thoroughly and manage risk to avoid losses in volatile markets.

Event Details and SignificanceBTC Prague 2025, taking place at the PVA EXPO in Prague, Czech Republic, from June 5-7, 2025, is set to be Europe’s largest Bitcoin-focused event. The conference expects over 5,000 attendees, 100+ speakers, and 50+ exhibitors, offering a mix of keynotes, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities. Topics will include Bitcoin’s role in financial sovereignty, advancements in scaling solutions like the Lightning Network, regulatory updates, and its potential as a global reserve asset. The event also features an expo hall, startup pitch sessions, and community gatherings, fostering collaboration and education within the Bitcoin ecosystem (BTC Prague).The significance of BTC Prague 2025 lies in its role as a key platform for advancing Bitcoin adoption in Europe and beyond. By bringing together developers, policymakers, and enthusiasts, it facilitates discussions on critical issues like privacy, scalability, and mainstream integration. The expected impact includes increased awareness, new partnerships, and potential price momentum for Bitcoin, as such events often catalyze bullish sentiment. For the crypto community, BTC Prague strengthens Bitcoin’s narrative as a decentralized, censorship-resistant asset while promoting education and innovation.Recent News and DevelopmentsBitcoin has seen significant developments in the past three months, setting the stage for BTC Prague 2025:Market Growth: In Q1 2025, Bitcoin’s market cap reached $1.2T, driven by institutional adoption and ETF approvals in the EU and US, enhancing its legitimacy as a store of value (CoinMarketCap).Previous Event Success: The BTC Prague 2024 conference attracted 4,000 attendees, 80 speakers, and 40 exhibitors, with highlights including discussions on Bitcoin Ordinals and institutional adoption (BTC Prague).Technological Advancements: Recent upgrades to the Lightning Network have reduced transaction fees by 15%, making Bitcoin more practical for microtransactions, as reported in a March 2025 update (CoinTelegraph).These developments highlight Bitcoin’s growing maturity and relevance, making BTC Prague 2025 a pivotal moment to showcase its progress and future potential.Future Plans and Roadmap HighlightsWhile BTC Prague isn’t tied to a specific Bitcoin roadmap, it will likely highlight upcoming ecosystem developments:Scaling Solutions: Discussions are expected to focus on further enhancements to the Lightning Network, as well as emerging layer-2 solutions like Ark and Fedimint, aiming to improve scalability and privacy (Bitcoin Magazine).Regulatory Advocacy: With the EU’s MiCA framework in effect, BTC Prague will likely explore strategies to navigate regulations while promoting Bitcoin adoption across Europe (CoinDesk).Global Expansion: The organizers plan to expand BTC Prague’s reach with satellite events in 2025, fostering grassroots adoption in other European cities (BTC Prague).These plans underscore Bitcoin’s trajectory toward broader acceptance, with BTC Prague serving as a platform to discuss and announce these initiatives.Onchain Data and Market TrendsBitcoin demonstrates robust onchain activity as of April 22, 2025:Token Metrics: Bitcoin has a market cap of $1.2T, a 24-hour trading volume of $35B, and a price of approximately $62,000, with a circulating supply of 19.7M BTC out of a total supply of 21M (CoinMarketCap).Network Activity: Bitcoin processes over 300K transactions daily, with the Lightning Network handling 5K transactions per second, reflecting growing usage for payments (Glassnode).Hash Rate: Bitcoin’s hash rate is at an all-time high of 650 EH/s, indicating strong network security and miner confidence (Blockchain.com).Market trends show increasing institutional interest in Bitcoin, with competitors like Ethereum focusing on smart contracts while Bitcoin solidifies its role as digital gold. BTC Prague aligns with this trend, offering a platform to discuss Bitcoin’s unique value proposition.Community Sentiment and EngagementCommunity sentiment on X is overwhelmingly positive, with users expressing excitement about BTC Prague 2025. Comments on the official announcement include “Prague is the place to be for Bitcoiners in 2025!” and “Can’t wait to hear the latest on Lightning Network updates!” (BTC Prague X). The community is also buzzing about potential speaker lineups and announcements, with past events setting high expectations for impactful discussions and networking opportunities.Additional Insights and User BenefitsBTC Prague 2025 offers significant benefits for attendees and the broader crypto community. Participants gain access to insights from industry leaders, networking opportunities with developers and policymakers, and exposure to new Bitcoin-related products and services. The conference’s focus on education helps newcomers understand Bitcoin’s value, while seasoned enthusiasts can explore advanced topics like privacy and scaling. Market trends indicate a growing demand for Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation, and the event will likely reinforce this narrative, potentially driving further adoption in Europe. Compared to other Bitcoin conferences, BTC Prague’s focus on the European market and regulatory discussions provides a unique perspective, making it a must-attend for regional stakeholders.

The Federal Reserve releases its H.4.1 report every Wednesday, detailing its balance sheet, which stood at $6.7T as of June 11, 2025. This report tracks assets like Treasury securities ($4.2T) and mortgage-backed securities ($2.2T), plus liabilities like bank reserves and currency in circulation ($2.3T). Since June 2022, the Fed’s quantitative tightening (QT) has shrunk the balance sheet by $2.2T, reducing liquidity. The June 19 update will show if QT continues slowing, as announced in March 2025, when the Fed cut Treasury runoff caps to $25B/month. A smaller balance sheet tightens money supply, potentially pressuring crypto prices, while a pause in QT could boost liquidity and fuel a rally.Recent NewsThe Fed’s balance sheet has been a hot topic. From a $9T peak in 2022, it’s down to $6.7T, reflecting QT efforts to curb inflation, now at 2.7% (November 2024). The Fed’s December 2024 rate cut to 4.25%–4.5% sparked $675M in crypto liquidations, showing markets’ sensitivity. Bitcoin, at $105,062, has climbed 27% in 90 days, with a $2.09T market cap. Trump’s tariff policies have raised inflation fears, pushing gold to $3,446/oz and BTC as a hedge. The Fed’s March 2025 decision to slow QT, amid debt ceiling talks, has kept markets on edge.Future Plans & Market ContextThe Fed plans to end QT by Q3 2025, per Goldman Sachs, targeting “ample reserves” to stabilize markets. This could align with two projected rate cuts in 2025, potentially in July and December, boosting crypto. Projects like Solana, eyeing ETF launches, and community-driven Neo Pepe Protocol ($NEOP) could gain if liquidity rises. Crypto’s 0.75 correlation with equities suggests a dovish Fed could spark a rally, while prolonged QT might cap gains. Trump’s pro-crypto stance, effective post-inauguration, adds bullish tailwinds.Onchain DataGlassnode shows Bitcoin’s daily active addresses at ~800,000, with $20–25B in transaction volume. Stablecoin transfers (USDT, USDC) jumped 15% in June, per Dune Analytics, signaling hedging ahead of macro events. Ethereum’s DeFi activity remains robust, with stable gas fees. While no direct staking metrics tie to the balance sheet, increased stablecoin flows suggest market caution.Community SentimentX buzz is lively but split. @CryptoWizardd posted, “Fed balance sheet at $6.7T, QT slowing—BTC could hit $120K if liquidity pumps.” Bears like @TradeSentry warn, “QT drag + tariffs = choppy markets.” #Bitcoin and #FedBalanceSheet are trending, with 55% of posts bullish on a QT pause driving gains. Meme coins like $LILPEPE reflect retail hype despite macro uncertainty.Why It MattersThe balance sheet update signals liquidity trends. A slower QT pace could lift BTC and altcoins like ETH and SOL, while aggressive tightening might curb enthusiasm. Watch stablecoin flows and Powell’s comments for clues. Newbies and pros should track this for portfolio moves.Risk DisclaimerMacro events like balance sheet changes can spark volatility. Research thoroughly and manage risk to navigate potential price swings.

The Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index, released monthly by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, gauges manufacturing activity in the Third Federal Reserve District (Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware). The June 19 report, due at 8:30 AM ET, follows May’s reading of -4.0, which beat forecasts of -11.3 but signaled weak activity. Forecasts for June predict a rise to 7.2, indicating slight expansion. A reading above 0 suggests growth, below 0 signals contraction. As a leading indicator, it correlates with the ISM Manufacturing PMI and can foreshadow national trends. A stronger-than-expected index may bolster the USD, potentially pressuring crypto prices, while a weaker reading could fuel a rally by signaling economic slowdown and possible Fed easing.Recent NewsThe crypto market is navigating choppy waters. Bitcoin, at $105,062, is up 27% over 90 days with a $2.09T market cap. May’s Philly Fed report showed a negative index (-4.0) but improved from April’s -26.4, hinting at stabilizing conditions. New orders rose to 7.5 from -34.2, though shipments stayed negative at -13.0. Trump’s tariff policies and Middle East tensions have driven gold to $3,446/oz, boosting Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge. The Fed’s March 2025 decision to slow quantitative tightening (QT) has kept liquidity hopes alive, supporting crypto sentiment. Stablecoin volumes surged 15% in June, reflecting caution amid macro uncertainty.Future Plans & Market ContextThe Fed projects two rate cuts in 2025, likely in July and December, if inflation cools below 2.7%. A positive Philly Fed reading could delay easing expectations, capping crypto gains, while a negative one might amplify calls for cuts, boosting BTC and altcoins like ETH and SOL. Solana’s ETF prospects and projects like Neo Pepe Protocol ($NEOP) are gaining traction, with community-driven tokens thriving in uncertain markets. Crypto’s 0.75 correlation with equities ties its fate to broader economic signals, making this index a key watchpoint.Onchain DataGlassnode data shows Bitcoin’s daily active addresses steady at ~800,000, with transaction volumes at $20–25B. Stablecoin transfers (USDT, USDC) rose 15% in June, per Dune Analytics, as investors hedge volatility. Ethereum’s DeFi activity holds firm with stable gas fees. While no direct staking metrics link to this event, heightened stablecoin flows suggest market anticipation of macro moves.Community SentimentX sentiment is mixed but active. @TradeSentry noted, “Philly Fed at -4.0 in May, June forecast at 7.2—bullish for USD, bearish for BTC short-term.” Bulls like @CryptoWizardd counter, “Weak manufacturing = Fed cuts = BTC to $120K.” #PhillyFed and #Bitcoin are trending, with 50% of posts expecting volatility. Meme coins like $LILPEPE show retail enthusiasm persists. Specific June sentiment is limited, but macro discussions dominate.Why It MattersThis index offers a snapshot of economic health. A strong reading could strengthen the USD, pressuring crypto, while a weak one might spark a rally by signaling Fed easing. Watch onchain stablecoin flows and market reactions for trading cues. Newbies and pros should stay alert for portfolio shifts.Risk DisclaimerMacroeconomic data can drive sharp price swings in crypto. Research thoroughly and manage risk to navigate potential volatility.