Bitcoin’s Market Strength Contrasts with Traditional Finance Struggles

On February 24, 2026, the cryptocurrency market witnessed a striking divergence between digital asset performance and traditional financial vehicles. Twenty One Capital, a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) backed by Cantor Equity Partners, experienced a disastrous market debut despite favorable conditions in the crypto space. The company's shares opened at $10.74 and closed at $11.42, representing a nearly 20% plunge below expectations and a significant decline from its sponsor's previous close of $14.27. This dramatic underperformance occurred simultaneously with Bitcoin posting a 3% gain, highlighting a growing disconnect between cryptocurrency markets and traditional finance investment vehicles. The irony of this situation is particularly pronounced given Twenty One Capital's substantial Bitcoin holdings. The firm reportedly possesses 43,514 BTC, worth approximately $2.9 billion at current prices, making it one of the largest institutional Bitcoin holders. This substantial exposure to the leading cryptocurrency failed to translate into investor confidence during the company's public debut. The market's reaction suggests that traditional investors remain skeptical of crypto-adjacent financial products, even when they hold significant digital asset portfolios. This event underscores several important trends in the evolving financial landscape. First, it demonstrates that Bitcoin's market performance is increasingly decoupling from traditional financial instruments, even those directly tied to cryptocurrency holdings. Second, it reveals persistent institutional hesitation toward crypto-focused investment vehicles despite growing mainstream adoption of digital assets. Third, it highlights the maturation of Bitcoin as an independent asset class that can perform well even when related traditional financial products struggle. From a bullish cryptocurrency perspective, this development actually reinforces Bitcoin's strength as a standalone asset. The fact that Bitcoin gained value while a major holder's traditional shares collapsed suggests that the cryptocurrency's fundamentals are driving its price independently of traditional market sentiment. This decoupling is a positive sign for Bitcoin's long-term viability as an uncorrelated asset class. Furthermore, Twenty One Capital's substantial Bitcoin holdings represent a significant vote of confidence in the digital asset's future, even if the market initially punished the company's stock. Looking forward, this event may accelerate the trend of direct cryptocurrency investment over traditional financial intermediaries. As investors recognize the disconnect between Bitcoin's performance and crypto-adjacent stocks, they may increasingly choose direct exposure through digital wallets and cryptocurrency exchanges rather than traditional equity vehicles. This could further strengthen Bitcoin's position as a mainstream investment asset while challenging traditional financial structures to better integrate with the crypto ecosystem. The market's message is clear: Bitcoin's value proposition stands on its own merits, independent of traditional finance's approval or understanding.

Twenty One Capital's Rocky Debut Defies Bitcoin Rally

Twenty One Capital's market debut collapsed despite favorable crypto conditions, with shares plunging nearly 20% below expectations. The SPAC-backed entity opened at $10.74 and closed at $11.42—a stark contrast to its sponsor Cantor Equity Partners' $14.27 previous close. This slump occurred alongside Bitcoin's 3% gain, highlighting a disconnect between crypto markets and traditional finance vehicles.

The firm holds 43,514 BTC (worth $4.05 billion), positioning it as the third-largest public bitcoin holder. CEO Jack Mallers emphasized ambitions beyond mere accumulation, outlining plans for brokerage, lending, and credit services. Major backers including Tether and SoftBank signal institutional confidence, though the debut suggests investor skepticism about non-crypto revenue streams.

Strive Raises $500M for Bitcoin Treasury Expansion

Vivek Ramaswamy’s Strive Inc. has launched a $500 million preferred stock offering following its successful Nasdaq debut at $80 per share. The capital raise will partially fund additional Bitcoin acquisitions, allowing the firm to grow its crypto holdings without debt or equity dilution.

As of November 7, 2025, Strive’s treasury holds 7,525 BTC worth approximately $761 million—valued at $101,000 per Bitcoin. The company is poised to become one of the largest corporate Bitcoin holders after its pending merger with Semler Scientific, which WOULD bring its total stash to over 22,000 BTC.

The move signals growing institutional confidence in Bitcoin as a treasury reserve asset, with Strive joining the ranks of MicroStrategy and Tesla in aggressive crypto accumulation strategies.

Bitcoin Traders Eye FOMC Decision as Rate Cut Looms

Bitcoin traders brace for volatility as the Federal Reserve prepares to announce a 0.25% rate cut, potentially lifting risk assets. The crypto fear index recently hit 10—extreme fear territory—before BTC rebounded from $86,700 to $92,300. Analysts note a higher support base forming, with resistance NEAR $94,200. A breakout could pave the way to $103,000.

Michaël van de Poppe highlights a divergence: Bitcoin lags behind the Nasdaq’s recovery despite their typical correlation. The rapid drop from $115,000 to $80,000 may have been overdone, and renewed risk appetite could correct the mispricing. Today’s FOMC guidance will dictate whether this momentum holds or triggers another whipsaw.

FOMC Meeting Focus Shifts From Rate Cut to Powell's Forward Guidance

Markets have fully priced in today's expected 25bps Fed rate cut, turning attention to Jerome Powell's press conference for clues on 2026 policy trajectories. The DOT plot and dissenting votes will reveal internal Fed divisions on inflation versus growth priorities.

Bitcoin's recent rally suggests traders already anticipate dovish signals. Analysts warn of a 'sell the news' reaction if Powell fails to surpass expectations. Liquidity outlooks for 2025-2026 now drive crypto valuations more than near-term rate moves.

Bitcoin Retreats From $94.6K High as Fed Decision Sparks Market Jitters

Bitcoin's rally to $94,625 on Tuesday marked a three-week high before retreating to $92,400, as traders braced for the Federal Reserve's rate decision. The cryptocurrency's surge coincided with bullish social sentiment, but technical analysts warn of bearish patterns—including a rising wedge and death cross—that could signal a drop toward $80,000.

Market observers note thin order books and clustered buys, with some alleging price manipulation. Santiment data suggests retail Optimism often precedes reversals. All eyes now turn to the Fed's policy statement, where a hawkish tilt could exacerbate selling pressure.

Strive Launches $500M Stock Sale to Expand Bitcoin Holdings

Strive, the asset manager co-founded by Vivek Ramaswamy, unveiled a $500 million stock-sale program to bolster its Bitcoin strategy. The Series A preferred shares (SATA Stock) will be sold incrementally on the open market, with proceeds earmarked for BTC accumulation, corporate growth, and potential acquisitions.

The firm currently holds 7,525 BTC, ranking as the 14th-largest corporate Bitcoin holder globally. This MOVE signals institutional confidence in Bitcoin as a treasury asset, following similar strategies by MicroStrategy and Tesla.

Funds may also Flow into Bitcoin-related products and working capital—a hedge against inflation while maintaining liquidity for opportunistic deals.