Hey gang, Ross Brand here with your Bitcoin Universe Daily Update!

Today, we're diving into some fascinating market moves and strategic plays. From a surprising look at a tech giant's missed Bitcoin opportunity, to big bets on future prices, and a quiet entry by a major legacy bank into crypto lending – these are the top three Bitcoin stories you need to know before you make your next move.

Let's get into today’s insights:

1. Tesla's $1.27 Billion Bitcoin Missed Opportunity

According to CNBC, Tesla could have made an additional $1.27 billion if it had held onto the majority of its Bitcoin. The company famously sold roughly 75% of its holdings in 2022 for $936 million. With Bitcoin now trading around $116,000 this morning, that decision is widely seen as a major missed opportunity, highlighting the ongoing challenge of timing Bitcoin for corporate treasuries. While Tesla still holds about $240 million in BTC, the bulk was liquidated before this year’s significant rally.

2. A $23.7 Million Whale Bets Big on Bitcoin to $200,000

The conviction in Bitcoin's future remains strong! A single options trader has placed a massive $23.7 million bet on Bitcoin hitting $200,000 by the end of 2025. This is one of the largest bullish options plays seen in recent months, showcasing significant belief in Bitcoin's upside potential. As analyst James Van Straten notes, “It’s a high-risk bet, but it shows the kind of upside some traders are still targeting — even after this year’s surge.”

3. JPMorgan Quietly Enters Bitcoin-Backed Lending

Adding another layer to Bitcoin's integration into traditional finance, JPMorgan is now quietly offering Bitcoin-backed loans to select private clients, according to multiple reports. This move sees one of the largest traditional banks joining Goldman Sachs and others that are cautiously stepping into the crypto lending space. It's a clear signal that legacy finance is increasingly warming to Bitcoin as collateral, even as their public messaging on crypto often remains conservative.

Also Worth Noting:

Robert Kiyosaki — author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad — has issued a warning that Bitcoin ETFs could potentially lead to centralized ownership, much like how Wall Street absorbed gold through ETFs. However, supporters strongly counter that ETFs are crucial for making Bitcoin more accessible to mainstream investors by offering a regulated and familiar entry point.

❓ Do you see Bitcoin ETFs as a path to wider adoption or a risk to decentralization? Share your take in the comments! 👇

And that’s your Bitcoin Universe Daily Update for Friday, July 25, 2025.

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“I'm Ross Brand, tracking what matters in Bitcoin and helping you make sense of it.”

Disclaimer: Bitcoin Universe is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

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