Happy New Year, Cryptonians! 🎉 Steph here, bringing you the first week’s recap at CryptoChickZ and in the CryptoSpace.
The year started on a bumpy note, with significant selling in the “Magnificent 7” as investors engaged in “tax gain harvesting” after the massive gains of 2023.
In the financial world, JPMorgan’s stock soared to new heights, while Apple received a downgrade from Barclays. The U.S. unemployment rate held steady at 3.7% in December, with the addition of 216,000 jobs. Meanwhile, the U.S. national debt skyrocketed to over $34 trillion. Despite this, Janet Yellen expressed optimism about the U.S. achieving a soft landing.
In academia, Harvard president Claudine Gay stepped down, while in the tech sphere, Mark Zuckerberg sold nearly half a billion dollars of Meta shares in late 2023. The Federal Reserve’s December minutes revealed uncertainty about future rate cuts.
Now, for the exciting part: Bitcoin! It hit a new 1-year high of over $45k. 🚀 Plus, a Bitcoin Spot ETF is “basically done” and might launch as early as next week, according to Bloomberg analysts. And let’s not forget Jim Cramer’s amusing take on Bitcoin’s resilience.
On a more concerning note, Americans are increasingly dipping into their retirement savings to manage living costs. Used car prices in the U.S. have dropped significantly, contrasting sharply with Europe’s trend of holding onto gasoline cars and avoiding EV cars.
Lastly, the U.S ISM Service Index is nearing contraction, missing estimates with a significant downside surprise in December.
Phew, what a week! Let’s see if the Bitcoin ETF approvals come through next week. For now, wishing you all a fantastic weekend!
Hugs,
Steph
Steph: The Bitcoin Lady of Costa Rica
Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, amidst its lush rainforests and pristine beaches, emerges a voice that resonates with passion, conviction, and unwavering belief – meet Steph, fondly known as the ‘Bitcoin Lady.’
A fervent advocate for decentralized finance, Steph’s faith in Bitcoin isn’t just about its monetary potential; it’s a reflection of her broader vision for a world where power isn’t concentrated in the hands of a few. Her skepticism towards institutions like the World Economic Forum stems from this core belief, as she champions a future that’s equitable, decentralized, and truly democratic.
But Steph’s passions aren’t limited to the crypto realm. An avid animal lover, her heart beats for the countless dogs she calls family. Her activism in animal welfare showcases her commitment to giving voice to the voiceless, ensuring that every creature, big or small, is treated with love and respect.
When she’s not diving deep into the world of crypto art or advocating for animal rights, you’ll find Steph immersed in the rejuvenating embrace of sports. Whether it’s the rhythmic dance of swimming or the adrenaline rush of a workout, physical activity is her sanctuary, a space where she reconnects with herself.
Family, for Steph, is the anchor that grounds her. Amidst the whirlwind of her many pursuits, it’s the laughter, love, and warmth of her loved ones that fuel her spirit.
In Steph, we find a harmonious blend of passion and purpose, a woman who stands tall, not just as the ‘Bitcoin Lady of Costa Rica,’ but as a beacon of hope, change, and relentless determination. Join her as she navigates the intricate tapestry of life, always with a dog by her side and a dream in her heart.
