Initial Market Drop and Leverage Washout

Markets are flashing warning signs as the crypto sector sheds $150 billion in value — yet some of Wall Street’s biggest players are doubling down. BlackRock CEO Larry Fink says Bitcoin demand is surging globally, even as traders rake in fortunes shorting the market, including one who reportedly made $160 million betting against BTC. Meanwhile, Bank of America forecasts gold hitting $5,000 and silver $65 by 2026, signaling that institutions are hedging against U.S. fiscal and policy chaos.