Record Surge in New Ethereum Wallets Amid Policy and Market Shifts

A revised Senate CLARITY Act draft has permitted activity-based stablecoin rewards tied to payments, wallets, and staking, excluding interest paid solely for holding tokens according to CoinTelegraph. This development aims to provide clearer rules for crypto companies offering incentives to users. The proposal, titled the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, has sparked debate between crypto firms and banking groups over the classification of such rewards.

Bitcoin and Ethereum experienced mild gains on January 13, 2026, following the release of soft core Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for December according to FXStreet. The core CPI, which excludes energy and food prices, rose 0.2% MoM, below market expectations. This data has shifted sentiment, with the Federal Reserve seemingly tilting toward a cautious easing path.

MP Materials has maintained a perfect buy rating from analysts following a defense deal according to Barron's. All 17 analysts covering the company's shares rate them as a buy, reflecting strong market confidence in its future performance.

Ethereum is navigating between staking strength and derivatives risk as record levels of staked ETH continue to rise according to Ambcrypto. Over $3.69 billion in ETH is currently staked, with additional ETH queued for staking. This trend highlights the growing demand for staking incentives, though derivatives positioning is also increasing, creating uncertainty for future price movements.

Bitcoin and Ethereum are building breakout momentum, with traders watching technical indicators for confirmation according to FXStreet. A close above key resistance levels could push Bitcoin toward the 100-day EMA and Ethereum toward its 100-day EMA. However, profit-taking and corrections remain a risk, with potential for short-term volatility.

Cardano's price is also showing signs of a short-term breakout amid softer U.S. inflation according to FXStreet. Traders are monitoring ADA's movement above key moving averages and expanding technical indicators, suggesting increased risk exposure. Open Interest and funding rates are also being watched for further signals.

Why Did This Happen?

The revised Senate CLARITY Act draft has provided clearer guidelines for activity-based stablecoin rewards according to CoinTelegraph. This legislation aims to address concerns from both crypto companies and banking groups, seeking to define permissible incentives while avoiding regulatory overreach. The draft emphasizes that stablecoin rewards do not constitute securities or bank-like products.

The soft core CPI data has influenced market sentiment by suggesting a more cautious Federal Reserve approach according to FXStreet. This has led to a positive reaction in crypto markets, as investors anticipate potential easing in monetary policy. The data also highlights ongoing inflationary pressures, though at a slower pace than expected.

MP Materials' defense deal has reinforced market confidence in its future growth according to Barron's. Analysts continue to rate the stock as a buy, reflecting expectations of increased demand for rare earth materials used in modern technology and defense applications.

How Did Markets React?

Bitcoin and Ethereum saw mild gains following the soft core CPI data according to FXStreet. Bitcoin edged toward $93,000, while Ethereum remained above the $3,000 level despite heavy retail distribution. These movements triggered over $176 million in liquidations, primarily driven by short positions.

Ethereum's staking activity has reached record levels according to Ambcrypto. With nearly 37.8 million ETH staked or queued, the network is showing increased demand for staking incentives. However, derivatives positioning is also growing, with rising Open Interest and long exposure creating potential for volatility.

Cardano is showing signs of a short-term breakout according to FXStreet. The price has moved above key support levels, and technical indicators suggest increased bullish momentum. Traders are watching for confirmation of a sustained move above the 200-day EMA and for further expansion in Open Interest.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Analysts are monitoring the Senate's finalization of the CLARITY Act draft according to CoinTelegraph. The bill is expected to influence the regulatory landscape for stablecoin rewards and activity-based incentives. The final version may determine whether such programs continue to expand or face stricter oversight.

Market participants are also watching for further signs of a Federal Reserve policy shift according to FXStreet. The soft core CPI data has raised expectations for rate cuts, but future inflation readings and economic indicators will play a critical role in shaping the Fed's path forward.

Ethereum's technical and staking dynamics will remain a focus for investors according to Ambcrypto. With rising staking levels and increasing derivatives positioning, the market is closely monitoring for signs of a breakout or a correction. The balance between supply tightening and exchange reserves will determine future price direction.

Cardano's price trajectory and technical indicators will guide short-term trading strategies according to FXStreet. Traders are watching for confirmation of a breakout above key moving averages and for continued expansion in Open Interest and funding rates. These factors will influence whether ADA sustains its bullish momentum or faces a potential pullback.