Bitcoin News Today: Emory's 245% Bitcoin Bet Defies Broader ETF Outflows

Yesterday, the U.S. Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs experienced significant net outflows, totaling $8.667 billion and $2.596 billion, respectively according to data. This marked a stark contrast to the previous day, when Bitcoin ETFs saw a modest $1.2 million inflow according to on-chain data, highlighting the volatile nature of institutional and retail demand for crypto-linked products. The outflows came amid broader market uncertainty, as investors navigated macroeconomic risks and regulatory developments.

Emory University, however, has continued to double down on its Bitcoin exposure. The university increased its holdings in Grayscale's Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF to $51.8 million, a 245% rise since its initial $15 million investment in 2024. This move underscores institutional confidence in Bitcoin despite broader outflows, with Emory now holding over 1 million shares of the fund. The Mini Trust ETF, which charges a 0.15% fee—far lower than the original Grayscale Bitcoin Trust's 1.5%—has become a focal point for investors seeking cost-effective exposure according to analysis.

Meanwhile, the end of a 43-day U.S. government shutdown sparked a tentative rebound in crypto markets. Bitcoin rebounded above $102,000, while Ethereum climbed to $3,533, as policy-linked assets gained traction according to analysts. Analysts noted that the shutdown's resolution brought regulatory clarity, with agencies like the SEC and CFTC resuming operations to expedite crypto-related rulemaking according to market reports. The Federal Reserve's potential dovish stance in December also bolstered risk assets, though Bitcoin's market cap remains 19% below its October peak according to market analysis.

A new milestone emerged as Canary Capital's XRP ETF (XRPC) debuted with $58 million in first-day trading, the highest among 2025's 900 ETF launches. The fund, the first U.S. spot XRP ETF under the 1933 Act framework, attracted $245 million in net inflows, driven by retail and institutional demand. Analysts attributed the success to XRP's strong retail following and renewed institutional interest following Ripple's regulatory victories.

Despite these developments, investor sentiment remains mixed. While Bitcoin ETFs saw a brief inflow of $1.15 million on Monday according to market data, Ethereum ETFs recorded zero net flows according to on-chain data. On-chain data revealed over $1.3 billion in Ethereum whale purchases, suggesting long-term accumulation according to market analysis. However, Ethereum's price dipped 7% as liquidations surged, with $206.5 million in futures liquidations reported according to market data.

The crypto market's divergent signals reflect a broader tug-of-war between bearish fundamentals and cautious optimism. Regulatory clarity, institutional adoption, and macroeconomic shifts will likely dictate the next phase of Bitcoin and Ethereum's trajectories.