This Week in Crypto: What to Watch

The crypto world is buzzing this week with exciting events and important developments. Here’s a rundown of what you need to know:

Bitcoin: Unmasking Satoshi?

HBO is set to premiere a documentary on October 8th claiming to reveal the identity of Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin’s mysterious creator. The film, titled “Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery,” is directed by Cullen Hoback, known for his investigative work. While the documentary has sparked intense speculation, many in the Bitcoin community remain skeptical.

FTX: A Crucial Court Hearing

On October 7th, a crucial court hearing will determine the fate of FTX’s $16 billion cash distribution plan. If approved, it could mean that creditors start receiving payouts as early as 60 days later. This could have a positive impact on the broader market, as creditors might reinvest their funds.

Stacks: The Nakamoto Upgrade

The Stacks (STX) network is gearing up for a major upgrade known as the “Nakamoto Upgrade.” This upgrade will introduce significant improvements, including the launch of sBTC, a protocol that allows users to lock Bitcoin (BTC) on the Bitcoin network and mint a corresponding amount of sBTC on Stacks. This will expand the utility of both networks. The final hard fork date for the upgrade will be announced on October 10th.

Macro Events: FOMC Minutes and US CPI Data

Macroeconomic factors will also play a crucial role in shaping the crypto market this week. On October 9th, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will release minutes from its most recent meeting. These minutes will provide insights into the Federal Reserve’s stance on future interest rate adjustments, which can significantly impact crypto prices.

On the same day, the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for September will be released. A softer-than-expected CPI print could lead to further rate cuts, potentially benefiting crypto prices. However, initial jobless claims data, released on the same day, will also be crucial in assessing the US economy’s strength.