CoinTalk

Imagine you need to sell 100 Bitcoin. If you were to place that order on a public exchange's order book, the result would be immediate and damaging. The sheer size of the sell order would overwhelm the buy-side liquidity, causing the price to crash in a phenomenon known as "slippage." You would not only get a progressively worse price for your assets, but you would also signal your move to the entire market. For serious, high-volume traders, this is an unacceptable risk. This is precisely the problem that Over-the-Counter, or OTC, trading was designed to solve.

Defining Crypto OTC: The Private Deal

Crypto OTC trading is the process of buying and selling digital assets directly between two parties, away from the public eye of a centralized exchange order book. Think of a public exchange as a loud, open auction house where every bid and ask is visible to everyone, instantly affecting the price. In contrast, an OTC trade is a quiet, private negotiation conducted in a back room. A buyer and a seller agree on a specific price for a specific amount of crypto, and the deal is executed at that fixed price, regardless of the public market's fluctuations.

How the OTC Process Works

The mechanics of an OTC trade are centered around a specialized service known as an OTC desk, which acts as a principal or an agent for the trade. The process is a high-touch, manual one. A trader looking to buy or sell a large amount will contact the desk. The desk will then leverage its private network of liquidity providers—which can include miners, hedge funds, and other high-net-worth individuals—to source the other side of the trade and provide a firm price quote. Once the trader agrees to the quote, the desk facilitates the settlement, with the crypto and fiat currency being exchanged simultaneously or through a trusted custodian. A key consideration for traders is the high barrier to entry, as most desks have a significant minimum trade size. [Read our detailed guide: What Is the Minimum for Crypto OTC Desks?]

The Core Advantages of OTC Trading

The primary benefit of OTC trading is the elimination of slippage and the guarantee of price certainty. You get one fixed price for your entire large order. This is coupled with the crucial advantage of privacy. Because the trade is not broadcast on a public order book, you avoid signaling your intentions to the market, which prevents other traders from moving the price against you. This combination of price stability and discretion minimizes your market impact, ensuring that your own trade doesn't devalue your execution.

Who Are OTC Desks For?

This service is not for the average retail investor. The typical clients of OTC desks are "whales" or high-net-worth individuals, institutional investors, hedge funds, and cryptocurrency miners who need to liquidate their mined assets to cover operational costs. These are market participants whose trading volume is so significant that it would disrupt the public markets if not handled privately.

The Strategic Alternative for Serious Traders

For the vast majority of serious traders who operate below the high minimums of OTC desks, the goal remains the same: to execute trades with minimal slippage. The best way to achieve this is by using a professional-grade exchange that offers deep, institutional-level liquidity. A platform like BYDFi, with its robust and liquid spot market, allows traders to execute five and low six-figure trades with a high degree of price stability, providing a professional trading environment without the steep entry requirements of a traditional OTC service.

If you’re asking how is the economy right now or wondering is the US economy doing well, it’s clear that 2025 is shaping up to be a year of cautious growth and complex challenges. By analyzing the latest data and expert forecasts, we can better understand the current state of the economy and what lies ahead for the state of the US economy right now.

Analytical Overview of the US Economy in Mid-2025

The US economy is experiencing slower growth compared to the rapid rebound seen in 2023 and early 2024. According to Deloitte’s recent forecast, despite lower tariffs that help reduce inflation, GDP growth is expected to moderate in 2025. Consumer spending, which had outpaced income growth in previous years, is slowing down as inflation pressures ease but remain above target.

The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy is shifting toward a more dovish stance. After a series of rate hikes to combat inflation, the Fed is anticipated to start cutting rates gradually from the third quarter of 2025 through 2026. This easing is expected to lower borrowing costs, encouraging business investment and consumer spending. The yield on the 10-year Treasury bond is projected to decline to around 4.25% by the end of 2025, signaling more favorable financing conditions.

However, risks remain. A downside scenario involves rising tariffs—potentially up to 25% on many imports—which could reignite inflation and force the government into austerity measures. This would tighten fiscal policy, slow growth further, and increase borrowing costs.

Current Economic Indicators and Trends

Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows a slight contraction in GDP in the first quarter of 2025, with a 0.5% annualized decline. The trade deficit widened in May 2025, as exports fell more than imports, highlighting ongoing trade imbalances. Despite these headwinds, the labor market remains resilient. Unemployment held steady at 4.2% in April, with steady job creation continuing, though at a slower pace than in previous years.

Inflation, while moderating from its peak, remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Energy prices and core goods inflation have eased somewhat, but services inflation is still a concern. This mixed inflation picture complicates policy decisions.

What Experts Predict for the Near Future

Looking ahead, economists expect the US economy to continue growing but at a slower pace, with annual GDP growth around 1.7% in 2025—down from nearly 3% in 2023. Consumer spending is expected to normalize, reflecting more cautious household budgets. Inflation should gradually decline toward 2% but may hover slightly above that level through mid-2026.

Labor market dynamics will shift as well. The aging population means fewer workers entering the labor force, and job growth is expected to slow to about 144,000 per month in 2025, down from 180,000 in 2024. This slowdown is driven more by demographic changes than by layoffs, suggesting a tight labor market but slower expansion.

Trade policy remains a wildcard. The expiration of tariff pauses in mid-2025 raises the risk of renewed trade tensions, which could disrupt supply chains and increase costs. However, ongoing negotiations and potential new trade agreements could ease these pressures.

What This Means for You and Your Finances

For consumers, the economy’s slower growth and persistent inflation mean budgeting carefully is more important than ever. Prices for essentials may remain elevated, so smart spending and debt management are key. For investors, the environment calls for caution and diversification. Platforms like BYDFi and Binance offer tools to manage risk and explore opportunities in a volatile market.

Businesses should prepare for moderate growth and potential supply chain disruptions but can benefit from lower interest rates later in 2025. Policymakers face the challenge of balancing inflation control with supporting growth and employment.

Final Thoughts: Navigating an Uncertain Economy

The state of the US economy right now is one of transition—moving from rapid post-pandemic growth to a more measured and uncertain phase. While risks like tariffs and inflation remain, there are also opportunities from lower interest rates, technological gains, and improving productivity.

As a 31-year-old UAE-based engineer, I was intrigued by the idea of earning income through options trading after browsing X for how to sell put options. In early 2025, I decided to sell a put on a stock I liked, risking 5,000 AED but earning a 3,000 AED premium when it worked out. The process was nerve-wracking, but it opened my eyes to the power of selling put options. My journey taught me how to navigate selling puts explained for UAE traders using AED, and I’m sharing my lessons to help you decide if it’s worth trying—plus a quick tip for gamers asking how to refund in Valorant.

Understanding the Art of Selling Put Options

My initial success with selling a put option prompted me to research how to sell puts thoroughly. A put option gives the buyer the right to sell a stock at a specific price (strike price) by a set date. When you sell a put, you agree to buy the stock if it falls below that price, earning a premium upfront. For example, I sold a put on a tech stock at a $50 strike price, pocketing 3,000 AED. If the stock stayed above $50, I kept the premium; if it dropped, I’d buy at a discount.

Web sources like Investopedia explain that selling put options generates income but carries risks, like buying a stock at a loss if prices plummet. X posts from traders highlight 2025’s bullish market, with the S&P 500 up 12%, making puts attractive for stable stocks. For UAE traders, selling puts explained means using platforms compliant with VARA regulations, like Interactive Brokers or BYDFi, which support AED deposits. My mistake was not setting a clear exit strategy, which could’ve limited my risk if the trade went south.

The UAE’s growing financial hub status makes selling a put option appealing, especially with AED-based accounts. However, it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme. My 3,000 AED gain came from careful stock selection and market timing, not blind luck.

Why Selling Puts Can Work for UAE Traders

The broader point of my experience is that selling put options can be a smart income strategy, but it requires knowledge and discipline. Unlike crypto’s volatility, options offer controlled risk when done right. I chose a stock I was happy to own, like Apple, ensuring I wouldn’t mind buying it if assigned. The 2025 market recovery, with tech stocks up 15% per Bloomberg, boosted my confidence. X discussions emphasized selecting liquid stocks and short-term expirations to minimize exposure.

For UAE traders, selling puts aligns with local regulations, but you must understand margin requirements and potential losses. My near-miss was not researching the stock’s volatility, which could’ve forced me to buy at a loss. Platforms like BYDFi, with AED support, simplify options trading for beginners, offering tools to track premiums and risks.

Key Takeaways for UAE Traders

My 3,000 AED win taught me how to sell put options effectively. Here’s advice for UAE investors:

• Choose Stable Stocks: Sell a put on companies you’d own, like Etisalat or Apple, to reduce risk. Check Yahoo Finance for stock fundamentals.
• Limit Exposure: Sell puts with short expirations (30–45 days) to avoid long-term market swings.
• Use Regulated Platforms: Trade on VARA-compliant brokers like BYDFi or Interactive Brokers, supporting AED for easy access.
• Manage Risks: Set aside funds to cover potential stock purchases if assigned. A 5% cash buffer saved me from margin calls.
• Stay Informed: Follow selling puts explained on X or Investopedia to refine strategies and track market trends.
• For gamers asking how to refund in Valorant, Riot Games allows refunds for unused in-game purchases within 14 days—visit their support portal for details.

Closing Thought: Trade Smart, Win Steady

Hook: Ever seen a meme coin 10x overnight? The crypto market can feel like a rollercoaster—one day you’re riding high, the next you’re wondering, “Will crypto recover?” If you’re staring at red charts, panicking about your portfolio, you’re not alone.

The crypto market is notorious for its wild swings, but history shows it’s also a space of incredible comebacks. Let’s unpack why the crypto market crashes, whether it will recover, and how you can position yourself to win.

Why Is the Crypto Market Crashing?

Crypto crashes aren’t new. From Bitcoin’s 2018 plunge to the 2022 bear market, volatility is part of the game. Recent dips might stem from global economic shifts, regulatory crackdowns, or even whale sell-offs. For instance, if you’re trading in the U.S., new SEC regulations might spook markets. In Europe, MiCA rules could shake things up. But here’s the thing: every crash has a story, and every story has a turning point.

1. Economic Pressure: Rising interest rates or inflation can pull investors away from risky assets like crypto.

2. Market Sentiment: FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt) spreads fast, especially when a major exchange falters.

3. Tech Hiccups: Blockchain upgrades or hacks can dent confidence.

Will Crypto Recover? The Data Says Yes

History screams resilience. Bitcoin dropped 80% in 2018 but soared to $69,000 by 2021. Ethereum followed a similar arc. The question isn’t if crypto will recover—it’s when will crypto recover? Analysts point to 2025 as a potential bull run, driven by:

1. Adoption Growth: More companies accept crypto payments, from Tesla to small businesses.

2. Institutional Money: Banks and hedge funds are dipping toes into Bitcoin ETFs.

3. Tech Advancements: Ethereum’s scalability upgrades and layer-2 solutions boost efficiency.

But here’s a warning: not every coin will survive. Meme coins with no utility? Risky. Stick to projects with strong fundamentals, like Bitcoin or Ethereum, and avoid unverified bots promising 100x returns.

How to Prepare for the Crypto Market Recovery

You don’t need to be a Wall Street pro to ride the recovery wave. Whether you’re in the U.S. trading USD or in India using INR, here’s actionable advice:

1. Diversify: Spread your investments across top coins and stable projects.

2. Stay Informed: Follow credible X accounts like @CoinDesk for real-time updates.

3. Secure Your Assets: Use hardware wallets to protect your funds from hacks.

The crypto market may look grim now, but every dip has led to a climb. The climax of this crash could be your chance to buy low and hold for the recovery.

In 2025, cryptocurrency is no longer just for tech-savvy geeks or finance experts — it's mainstream.

If you’ve found yourself googling "what is the top 10 cryptocurrency?" or  top 10 cryptocurrency in the world

With thousands of digital currencies on the market, figuring out which coins are actually worth your time and money can be overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the top 10 cryptocurrency list that’s dominating both the Indian and global markets.

Whether you're a beginner looking for your first crypto or a seasoned investor exploring new opportunities, this post gives you the insight you need.

Why You Should Care About the Top 10 Cryptocurrencies in the World

-These coins hold the highest market capitalization.

-They’re usually more stable and widely accepted.

-They are often available on all major exchanges, making it easy to buy, sell, or trade.

Plus, knowing the top 10 cryptocurrency in the world can help you make smarter, lower-risk decisions when investing or trading in the digital space.

The Top 10 Cryptocurrency to Watch in 2025

Here’s the most updated cryptocurrency list top 10, based on market cap, adoption, and future potential.

Following its massive airdrop and rapid rise to prominence, Jito (JTO) has become a key token within the Solana ecosystem. Naturally, investors and traders are all asking the same question: "What is a realistic Jito price prediction?"

While anyone promising you a specific price target is selling a fantasy, what we can do is analyse the fundamental factors that will likely drive the JTO token's value over the long term.

I won't provide you with a definitive answer. Instead, I'll provide you with a balanced framework of the bullish and bearish cases for Jito so you can make your own informed decisions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. The crypto market is extremely volatile. Always do your own research (DYOR).

The Bullish Case for Jito (Factors That Could Drive the Price Up)

1. The Success of the Solana Ecosystem: This is the single most important factor. JTO's fate is directly tied to the health and growth of Solana. As Solana attracts more users, developers, and capital, demand for core DeFi services like Jito's liquid staking naturally increases. A rising tide for Solana lifts the Jito boat.

2. Dominance in Liquid Staking: Jito is in a fierce competition with other protocols (like Marinade Finance) to be the #1 liquid staking solution on Solana. If Jito can continue to grow its market share and attract more Total Value Locked (TVL), the value and influence of its governance token (JTO) will likely increase.

3. Growth in MEV Rewards: Jito's unique selling point is its ability to capture and distribute MEV rewards to its users. If the MEV opportunities on Solana grow and Jito's software becomes even more efficient at capturing them, the yield on JitoSOL will become more attractive, drawing more users to the platform.

4. The Power of the Jito DAO: The JTO token gives holders governance rights over the Jito DAO, which controls a significant treasury and the future of the protocol. As the DAO becomes more active and influential, the JTO token becomes more valuable as a governance asset.

The Bearish Case for Jito (Factors That Could Drive the Price Down)

1. Intense Competition: Jito is not the only player. The liquid staking space on Solana is highly competitive. If another protocol offers a better yield, a superior user experience, or more utility, Jito could lose market share.

2. Solana Network Instability: While the network has improved, Solana has a history of performance issues and outages. Any future instability could shake confidence in the entire ecosystem and negatively impact the price of all related tokens, including JTO.

3. Broader Crypto Market Downturns: JTO is not an island. If the entire crypto market enters a bear market, driven by a fall in Bitcoin and Ethereum, JTO's price will almost certainly decline along with it, regardless of its own fundamental progress.

4. Airdrop Selling Pressure: A significant portion of the JTO supply was given away in an airdrop. There is always a risk that large airdrop recipients may decide to sell their holdings, creating downward pressure on the price.

Conclusion: So, What's the Prediction?

The Jito price prediction is not a single number. It is a dynamic outcome based on the battle between these bullish and bearish forces.

The most logical prediction is that the price of JTO will be highly correlated with the growth and adoption of the Solana network itself. Your conviction in Jito should be a reflection of your conviction in Solana.

Why Home Painting Matters in 2025

A fresh coat of paint can transform your living space, boost your home’s value, and reflect your personal style. According to a 2024 report, a well-executed interior painting project can yield a 107% return on investment when selling your home. But before you dive into painting the house, you need to understand the costs involved, from materials to labor, to avoid surprises. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or considering hiring a professional, this guide addresses common pain points like budgeting, choosing the right paint, and estimating project expenses.

How Much Does a Can of Paint Cost?

One of the first questions homeowners ask is, How much for a can of paint? The cost of a can of paint varies widely based on factors like brand, quality, finish, and whether it’s interior or exterior paint. Here’s a breakdown:

Average Cost: A gallon of interior paint typically costs between $20 and $60, while exterior paint can range from $25 to $75 per gallon. Premium brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore may push prices toward the higher end, while budget options like Behr or Valspar are more affordable.

Coverage: One gallon of paint covers approximately 350–400 square feet with one coat. For a standard 12x12-foot room (about 400 square feet of wall space), you’ll need 2–3 gallons for two coats, totaling $40–$180 just for paint.

Finish Matters: Glossy finishes (ideal for kitchens and bathrooms) cost about $2 more per gallon than flat or eggshell finishes. Higher gloss levels offer better durability and easier cleaning but come at a premium.

Primer Costs: If your walls need priming (e.g., for color changes or damaged surfaces), expect to spend $35–$75 per gallon for primer.