Moscow Exchange Embraces Bitcoin with ETF Futures Launch for Qualified Investors

In a significant move signaling Russia's growing acceptance of cryptocurrency, the Moscow Exchange is set to launch Bitcoin ETF futures on June 4, 2025. These futures will track the value of the U.S.-based IBIT Bitcoin Trust ETF, with settlements processed in Russian rubles despite the dollar-denominated pricing. This development follows Sberbank's recent introduction of a structured bond product tied to Bitcoin's price, further integrating digital assets into Russia's financial ecosystem. Currently, Bitcoin is trading at 105,163.03 USDT, reflecting the ongoing interest and investment in the cryptocurrency market. This step by the Moscow Exchange highlights the increasing institutional adoption of Bitcoin and its potential as a mainstream financial instrument.

Moscow Exchange to Launch Bitcoin ETF Futures for Qualified Investors

The Moscow Exchange is set to begin trading Bitcoin ETF futures on June 4, 2025, marking another step in Russia's gradual embrace of cryptocurrency. The futures contract will track the value of the U.S.-based IBIT Bitcoin Trust ETF, with settlements processed in Russian rubles despite dollar-denominated pricing.

This development follows Sberbank's recent introduction of a structured bond product tied to Bitcoin's price movements. Russia's financial ecosystem appears to be cautiously expanding crypto access, albeit with strict investor qualifications. The country's Finance Ministry has previously indicated plans for a dedicated crypto exchange targeting only 'super-qualified' participants.

Strategy Launches Stride (STRD) Perpetual, Drawing Mixed Reactions from Crypto Community

Strategy, formerly known as MicroStrategy, unveiled its latest perpetual offering, Stride (STRD), on June 3, 2025. The product promises a 10% yield tied to bitcoin without direct BTC ownership, funneling cash back into the company's Bitcoin acquisition strategy. Market reactions split between enthusiasm for the yield mechanism and skepticism over its structural similarities to Ponzi schemes.

Stride joins Strategy's existing suite of preferred stocks—Strike (STRK) and Strife (STRF)—forming what the company calls a 'three-piston Bitcoin engine.' The noncallable perpetual boasts a fixed 10% dividend, outperforming Strike's 8% but ranking below Strife in seniority despite matching its yield. Fee-free and ETF-competitive, STRD targets long-term holders, though repurchase clauses for tax or fundamental changes introduce complexity.

Analysts note the MOVE amplifies Strategy's play on Bitcoin's volatility and scarcity. Chris Millas' viral comparison chart highlights the tiered risk-reward structure across STRK, STRF, and STRD—a deliberate architecture to maximize capital efficiency. Yet critics question sustainability, with one trader remarking, 'High yield doesn't erase Ponzi vibes when the underlying asset is debt-fueled BTC accumulation.'

Bitcoin’s Bull Run May Delay – John Bollinger Warns Traders

Bitcoin's rally shows signs of fatigue after a record-breaking surge to $111,980 earlier this year. The cryptocurrency has since retreated to $104,515, marking a 3% decline in the past 24 hours. Market veteran John Bollinger identifies a concerning technical pattern that could signal an impending pause or pullback.

The 'Three Pushes to a High' formation—visible on Bollinger's shared chart—occurs when price tests the upper band three consecutive times without sustaining momentum. Bitcoin's recent failure to hold above $108,000 after multiple attempts suggests weakening buyer pressure. Smaller candlesticks and increased volatility following these tests typically precede consolidation periods.

While Bollinger refrains from explicit predictions, the pattern's emergence during Bitcoin's extended uptrend warrants caution. Traders often interpret such signals as opportunities to secure profits or adjust risk exposure before potential trend reversals.

Bitcoin Whales Cash Out as Institutional Investors Enter Market

Bitcoin's consolidation above $100,000 follows its May peak NEAR $112,000, with significant profit-taking activity emerging among large holders. Whale wallets holding 10,000-100,000 BTC have reduced their collective supply by 40% since 2017, according to analyst Willy Woo. This sell-off marks a strategic transfer of wealth to institutional players capitalizing on diminished selling pressure.

Glassnode data reveals intense profit realization, with $500 million in hourly gains recorded at peak activity. The average unrealized profit per bitcoin stands at 16%, suggesting sustained sell-side pressure from early adopters. Market structure now reflects a pivot toward institutional accumulation, with long-term holders liquidating positions acquired between $0-$700.

Healthcare Tech Firm Semler Scientific Expands Bitcoin Holdings to $472 Million

Nasdaq-listed Semler Scientific has acquired an additional 185 Bitcoin for $20 million in May and June, bringing its total holdings to 4,450 BTC worth approximately $472 million. The Santa Clara-based medical device company now ranks as the 14th largest corporate holder of Bitcoin globally.

Semler's aggressive accumulation strategy mirrors MicroStrategy's playbook, positioning Bitcoin as a treasury reserve asset. "We remain committed to healthcare technology while leveraging Bitcoin to maximize shareholder value," the company stated in its SEC filing. The move reflects growing institutional confidence in cryptocurrency as a store of value.

Corporate Bitcoin adoption continues gaining momentum, with public companies collectively holding over 300,000 BTC. Semler's latest purchase demonstrates how mid-cap firms are deploying excess cash into digital assets rather than traditional instruments.