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Justin Sun Stakes $150M in Ethereum as Whales Quietly Load Up

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Ethereum Whales Back in Accumulation Mode: Big Names Make Bold Moves

Ethereum whales are returning to accumulation mode, and this time, it’s not just retail panic-buying. Major players are making calculated moves. Justin Sun, the founder of TRON, recently staked 45,000 ETH—worth approximately $154.5 million—through Lido, the largest Ethereum liquid staking platform.

This deposit came shortly after he withdrew the same amount from AAVE, signaling a strategic shift from lending yield to staking rewards. Sun now holds roughly $534 million in Ethereum, slightly more than his TRX holdings valued at around $519 million. For someone who built an empire on TRON, this sends a loud message: Ethereum is still the king of smart contracts, and Sun clearly recognizes its dominance.

Data from Arkham Intelligence confirms this transfer, showing the entire move executed in a single on-chain transaction. This action caused a minor uptick in Lido’s total value locked, reflecting growing confidence in Ethereum staking.

The Billion-Dollar ETH Whale Accumulation

Justin Sun is not alone in making aggressive plays. Over the past three days, on-chain data reveals that whales have collectively purchased 394,682 ETH—worth roughly $1.37 billion.

In a market where many traders are still waiting for Bitcoin to confirm a breakout, smart money is quietly building exposure to Ethereum. These are not retail-level buys but multi-million-dollar inflows from institutional and high-net-worth wallets.

On-chain researcher 0xNonceSense pointed out that this accumulation pattern coincides with ETH’s recent dip, suggesting that whales are heavily dollar-cost averaging rather than chasing price action.

Tom Lee’s Bitmine Makes a Big Entrance

Adding fuel to the bullish narrative, Tom Lee’s Bitmine recently purchased 40,718 ETH—a transaction valued at $137 million. This acquisition represents over 10% of total whale accumulation for the week.

Bitmine’s aggressive positioning signals strong institutional confidence, even as Ethereum price consolidates. Rather than waiting for a breakout, they appear to be betting on it. Market watchers interpret this as a powerful vote of confidence in Ethereum’s fundamentals.

If institutions are increasing exposure while the broader market hesitates, it may mark the early stages of a new accumulation phase for ETH.

Ethereum’s Record 24,192 TPS: A New Scaling Era

While whales accumulate, Ethereum itself achieved a record 24,192 transactions per second (TPS)—the highest throughput in its history. This milestone is largely thanks to Layer 2 (L2) solutions, especially Lighter, which consistently processes around 4,000 TPS since its launch.

This breakthrough signifies the beginning of Ethereum’s scaling era, where L2s handle the execution layer, positioning Ethereum as a settlement and security backbone for the entire ecosystem.

The improvement is not just a technical milestone; it represents a narrative shift. For years, critics pointed to slow transaction speeds and high gas fees as evidence that Ethereum couldn’t scale. Now, the data proves otherwise. Developers and analysts see this as validation that Ethereum’s roadmap is delivering results. L2s are no longer experimental—they are production-ready and driving real usage.

The Bigger Picture: Smart Money Accumulation

When Ethereum whales buy during quiet markets, it often signals the start of a new accumulation cycle. Smart money tends to act before narratives shift, before headlines change, and well before retail buyers notice.

What’s happening now is a perfect example:

  • 394,682 ETH bought in just three days
  • $1.37 billion in inflows
  • 45,000 ETH staked by Justin Sun
  • 40,718 ETH bought by Bitmine

These are strategic moves by informed entities who understand where the market is headed. Ethereum’s fundamentals are stronger than ever—with record throughput, robust validator yields, and a growing ecosystem of L2 projects.

Meanwhile, prices are consolidating, and on-chain data shows consistent outflows from exchanges—a signal that investors are moving ETH off trading platforms into long-term storage or staking.

Why the Market Should Pay Attention

The combination of whale accumulation and record network performance paints a bullish medium-term picture for Ethereum. Historically, similar on-chain activity has preceded major rallies.

The 2021 bull run, for example, began with comparable waves of whale buying focused on staking and long-term holding. The difference this time is the scale and infrastructure in place.

Ethereum’s L2 ecosystem—including Arbitrum, Optimism, and now Lighter—can handle thousands of transactions per second, supporting a global network of decentralized apps and finance.

Simultaneously, the liquid staking economy—led by platforms such as Lido, Rocket Pool, and EigenLayer—offers new yield opportunities, incentivizing whales to hold ETH long-term rather than trade short-term.

The Ethereum story right now isn’t just about price; it’s about conviction. While traders panic over short-term volatility, billionaires and institutions are building long-term exposure.

Justin Sun’s $150 million staking move and Bitmine’s $137 million purchase are clear statements: those with the most information and resources are betting heavily on Ethereum’s future.

With record network speeds, surging whale activity, and a maturing ecosystem, Ethereum appears to be entering a new phase—one led by fundamentals rather than hype.

So, when you see the next dip, remember who’s buying it.

Disclosure: This is not trading or investment advice. Always do your own research before buying any cryptocurrency or investing in any services.

https://themerkle.com/justin-sun-stakes-150m-in-ethereum-as-whales-quietly-load-up/

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Arthur Hayes Says Zcash Is Now His Second-Largest Holding After Bitcoin

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BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes has revealed that Zcash (ZEC) is now the second-largest holding in his family office, Maelstrom, trailing only Bitcoin (BTC).

“Due to the rapid ascent in price, ZEC is now the 2nd largest *LIQUID* holding in MaelstromFund portfolio behind BTC,” Hayes wrote in a Friday post on X.

This disclosure comes amid a sharp rally in Zcash, which has climbed from a low of $137 to over $730 in the past month—representing an increase of more than 400%.

Other privacy coins have also posted strong weekly gains. Dash (DASH), Decred (DCR), and ZKsync (ZK) have all gained more than 100%. However, major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) have remained range-bound amid broader market uncertainty.

### Zcash’s Market Performance and Current Metrics

At the time of writing, ZEC trades at $548, down about 11.8% in the past 24 hours, with a market capitalization of $8.9 billion, according to CoinMarketCap. Trading activity remains elevated, with 24-hour volume up 139% to $4.63 billion.

Zcash’s circulating supply stands at 16.28 million ZEC, with a maximum supply cap of 21 million. The token’s fully diluted valuation (FDV) is around $11.5 billion.

### What Makes Zcash Different?

Zcash’s hybrid model supports both transparent and shielded transactions, making it a more palatable option for users seeking privacy. Like Bitcoin, it has a fixed supply of 21 million coins and is secured by a proof-of-work (PoW) mechanism.

### Privacy Movement Driving Zcash’s Comeback

Alex Bornstein, executive director of the Zcash Foundation, commented on the recent resurgence of Zcash, attributing it to an organic, grassroots privacy movement stemming from rising public concern over government surveillance and data control.

Speaking on Cointelegraph’s Chain Reaction show, Bornstein noted that this renewed interest reflects a “powerful narrative” around digital privacy and financial autonomy.

He also clarified that the Zcash Foundation, a US-registered nonprofit, had “absolutely nothing to do” with the wave of renewed attention surrounding ZEC.

“We were surprised to see when these mentions started popping up. Then to see that kind of wave just start to spread and then crest was extraordinary,” he said.

—

**Related:**
– Zcash knocking at door of top 10 cryptos as market cap smashes $10.6B
– Truth behind comeback of privacy-focused protocol Zcash in 2025
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/bitcoin/arthur-hayes-says-zcash-is-now-his-second-largest-holding-after-bitcoin/

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Iowa State TE Brahmer gets in end zone a week after collapsing on field

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FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Benjamin Brahmer insists that things looked a lot worse than they actually were when the big Iowa State tight end passed out on the field after getting up from a big hit in the previous game.

A week later, Brahmer was back in the end zone, showing no signs of lingering effects from the incident. Brahmer caught a crucial pass around the end zone, helping secure the team’s momentum and demonstrating his resilience.
https://mymotherlode.com/sports/college-sports-general-news/10162625/iowa-state-te-brahmer-gets-in-end-zone-a-week-after-collapsing-on-field.html

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Don Callis Family member suddenly gives a new name to alliance with AEW star

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A top AEW star has introduced a new name for his duo alongside a fellow member of the Don Callis Family on the most recent episode of Collision.

In addition to rebranding their partnership, he declared that both of them will serve as the captains of the faction moving forward.

This development marks a significant moment for the group, as they continue to establish their presence within AEW. Stay tuned for more updates on the Don Callis Family and their evolving dynamics.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/aew/news-don-callis-family-member-suddenly-gives-new-name-alliance-aew-star

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Nebraska Women’s Basketball Dominates Samford 80-46

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Nebraska seemed to pick up right where they left off last game, but instead of Claire Johnson and Britt Prince, it was Jessica Petrie and Britt Prince leading the charge. That’s the great thing about this team and the depth they have—it can be anyone’s night. You know Prince is going to get her points, but who will be the one to step up as well? It will be interesting to see this year, especially when everyone is back from injuries.

Starting lineups were the same as the last game with Prince, Callin Hake, Hailey Weaver, Petra Bozan, and Petrie. Logan Nissley was also in street clothes, though the reason for this was unclear. If anyone has information, feel free to share in the comments.

—

### First Quarter

Nebraska started out strong on defense. The Huskers took the ball down the court, and Petra Bozan knocked down a three-pointer assisted by Hailey Weaver. Weaver then drove to the hoop for a bucket, followed by a block on the defensive end—a solid series for her so far.

Britt Prince got a two-point basket, and immediately after, Jessica Petrie had a chance at a three-point play but missed the free throw, putting Nebraska up 9-0.

Claire Johnson, the Samford transfer, checked into the game for the first time. Petrie quickly accumulated six points, prompting Samford to call a timeout with 5:39 left in the first quarter, Nebraska leading 13-0.

Samford came out of the timeout and drained a three, but Petrie responded with one of her own and was perfect from the floor, up to 9 points on 4-for-4 shooting.

Defensively, Callin Hake was doing what she does best—getting a steal and assisting Amiah Hargrove on a basket to extend Nebraska’s lead to 18-3. The Huskers forced their second shot clock violation of the night; the defense looked as strong as advertised.

However, Nebraska then went on a familiar scoring drought of nearly three minutes. During this stretch, Callin Hake took a charge—something Nebraska fans know all too well.

Kennadi Williams was fouled and went to the free-throw line, splitting the pair. After a Samford turnover, Bozan hit a baseline fadeaway jumper to end the quarter with Nebraska leading 21-5.

—

### Second Quarter

Britt Prince started the second quarter with a tough floater, immediately followed by a steal and score. Nebraska had already forced Samford into 13 turnovers with seven minutes remaining in the first half.

Jessica Petrie was hustling all over the court, not only tallying 11 points but also saving the ball from going out of bounds leading to a Prince bucket, pushing the lead to 29-5.

The game was being played at a fast pace. Petrie continued to dominate, putting Nebraska up by 23 points with 4:43 left before a Samford timeout.

Claire Johnson, who scored 21 points in the last game, remained scoreless so far tonight.

Samford made a small run with free throws and a three-pointer, but Hargrove, Petrie, and Bozan kept the game well out of reach.

An official review determined Nebraska had last touched the ball. Hailey Weaver made two free throws to push the Huskers’ lead to 40-23. If I had a nickel for every time Britt Prince hit a buzzer-beater, I’d be rich by now.

The first half ended with Nebraska leading Samford 42-25.

—

### Halftime Stats

– **Jessica Petrie:** 15 points, 4 rebounds
– **Britt Prince:** 10 points, 2 assists
– **Petra Bozan:** 7 points
– **Callin Hake:** 5 assists

Nebraska was shooting 58% from the field but only 17% from three-point range. Samford was shooting 41% overall, including 33% from beyond the arc. The Huskers led the rebounding battle 16-13.

Samford had committed 15 turnovers compared to Nebraska’s 7. Nebraska had assisted on 13 of their shots.

—

### Third Quarter

Nebraska gave up an early basket, but Bozan responded with a put-back two. Jessica Petrie continued her breakout performance, up to 20 points after hitting an and-1 play, pushing the lead to 49-27.

Callin Hake scored her first points on a pair of free throws. Prince and Hake then hit back-to-back three-pointers, extending the lead to 57-30.

Kennadi Williams was called for a questionable foul, sending Samford to the line with one of two free throws made. After a Samford blocking call, Williams assisted Prince, who hit a wide-open three-pointer (61-34).

A media timeout was taken with four minutes left in the third. Amiah Hargrove was set to shoot three free throws after the break.

The remainder of the quarter was quiet, with only one field goal coming from another Prince three-pointer. Nebraska struggled with turnovers late in the quarter but held a commanding 66-36 lead heading into the final period.

—

### Fourth Quarter

Britt Prince began heating up, slicing through the defense for a layup to bring her total to 21 points. Samford hit back-to-back threes but trailed 70-46.

At this stage, Prince seemed unstoppable against the Bulldog defense. Hargrove’s steal and layup prompted Samford to take a timeout with 5:25 remaining.

Jessica Petrie got a block leading to an Amiah Hargrove layup. After another Samford turnover, Nebraska took a media timeout with 4:21 left.

Bozan made a layup, Hargrove sank a jumper, and Bozan added a steal as Nebraska went on a 10-0 run over the last six minutes—although they had been on a lengthy 3:39 scoring drought prior.

Hargrove delivered a big block, and with not much action left, Kennadi Williams dribbled out the clock as Nebraska cruised to an 80-46 victory.

—

### Postgame Stats

– **Britt Prince:** 23 points (10/13 FG)
– **Jessica Petrie:** 20 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists
– **Petra Bozan:** 13 points, 6 rebounds
– **Amiah Hargrove:** 12 points, 11 rebounds
– **Callin Hake:** 7 assists
– **Kennadi Williams:** 5 assists

Nebraska shot 51% from the field, including 26% from three-point range, compared to Samford’s 33% shooting overall and 30% from distance.

The Huskers recorded 17 steals and 22 assists, won the rebounding battle 37-31, and committed 14 turnovers compared to Samford’s 27.

—

### Looking Ahead

Nebraska’s next game will be against the Creighton Bluejays. The in-state rivals will meet at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Wednesday, November 12th, with tip-off set for 8:00 PM.

Stay tuned for more exciting Husker basketball this season!
https://www.cornnation.com/nebraska-womens-basketball/88396/nebraska-womens-basketball-dominates-samford-80-46

general

Colts Reacts Survey Results Week 10: Hear about that big trade?

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Even after their four-game winning streak was snapped in Pittsburgh, Indianapolis Colts (7-2) fans remain confident that their team is headed in the right direction—92% to be exact. And for good reason. Despite the recent tough road loss, the Colts still sit atop the AFC and made a blockbuster move earlier this week to significantly upgrade their depleted cornerback room.

Specifically, the Colts made national headlines just ahead of this week’s trade deadline by acquiring two-time NFL All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner. The price was steep: two future first-round picks and wide receiver A. J. Mitchell. While that cost was no doubt high for a cornerback—even one as young and talented as Gardner—a strong majority of Colts fans have graded the surprising trade deadline deal positively.

Namely, 49% of Colts fans gave the trade an A grade, while another 39% rated longtime general manager Chris Ballard and Co. with a B. A smaller portion of fans gave lower marks.

Only time will tell whether Gardner lives up to the value Indianapolis gave up. However, he’s a young, elite cornerback who excels when things are going right. He is expected to help the Colts both in the short term and well beyond.

The Colts didn’t just acquire key competition, a stopgap, or a bandaid solution—they landed a bona fide CB1 just hitting his prime. Joining Charvarius Ward (when healthy) and Kenny Moore II, this trio arguably forms the best cornerback group in all of football.

Gardner, having cleared the league’s concussion protocol earlier this week, is expected to make his Colts debut in Berlin, Germany, against the Atlanta Falcons on the road this weekend.

Adding to the optimism, 97% of Colts fans believe Indianapolis will emerge victorious versus Atlanta and perhaps start a new winning streak.

Prost to the Colts’ bright future!

—

Check out FanDuel, an official pro football partner of SB Nation, for NFL Odds.
https://www.stampedeblue.com/indianapolis-colts-news/117543/colts-reacts-survey-results-week-10-hear-about-that-big-trade

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$1M+ and Climbing: BullZilla Secures a Spot Among the Best 100x Cryptos This Year, with Tron and Cardano Leading the Rally

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**Explore BullZilla, Tron, and Cardano: Best 100x Cryptos This Year for High ROI Potential and Long-Term Gains**

Why did the crypto investor bring a ladder to the market? To catch the next moonshot!

In today’s fast-paced blockchain space, projects like Tron and Cardano have consistently stood out for their innovation, scalability, and developer-friendly ecosystems. Tron’s high-speed transactions and content-driven applications, along with Cardano’s research-based smart contracts and sustainability focus, have captured the attention of both investors and the community.

As these established networks continue to evolve, they set benchmarks for performance, reliability, and adoption, demonstrating how strategic technology design and active community engagement can drive long-term value in the competitive cryptocurrency world.

—

### BullZilla Presale at a Glance

– **Current Stage:** 9th (Bullish By Nature)
– **Phase:** 4
– **Current Price:** $0.00023906
– **Presale Tally:** Over $1M
– **Token Holders:** Over 3,500
– **Tokens Sold:** Over 31 Billion
– **Current ROI:** 2105.05% from Stage 9D to the Listing Price of $0.00527
– **Earliest Joiners Enjoy:** 4057.56% Gain Until Stage 9D
– **$1000 Investment = 4.183 Million ZIL Tokens**
– **Upcoming Price Surge:** 2.79% increase in 10A to $0.00024573

Over 3,500 investors have joined the BullZilla presale. Will you be next?

—

### BullZilla: The New Contender Roaring Into the Market

A fresh contender, BullZilla, is generating serious buzz thanks to its impressive presale performance and strong growth potential. With unique tokenomics, staking opportunities, referral rewards, and early-adoption hype, BullZilla has positioned itself as one of the most promising 100x cryptos of the year.

Investors seeking projects with solid utility, robust community support, and significant ROI potential are increasingly monitoring this trifecta of opportunities: Tron, Cardano, and BullZilla — for both short-term gains and long-term growth.

Early participation and strategic holding could maximize returns as these projects continue to scale and deliver value. Don’t miss out — join BullZilla’s presale today and secure your stake before over 31 billion tokens sell out!

—

### TRON Unleashed: Fast, Scalable, and Secure Blockchain Solutions

Tron has carved its niche in decentralized applications, focusing on high throughput and low transaction fees. Its blockchain infrastructure supports smart contracts, NFTs, and entertainment-focused DApps.

With its TRX token widely used for staking and transactions, Tron continues to attract developers and investors seeking robust platforms. Transitioning to a proof-of-stake consensus ensures scalability and energy efficiency.

Additionally, its partnerships with gaming and media projects boost adoption. Investors benefit from network effects as Tron grows, though competition remains fierce. Its liquidity and trading volume also make it appealing for those seeking flexible market entry points.

#### Frequently Asked Questions About TRON

**How does Tron ensure fast transactions?**
Tron uses a delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS) system, enabling elected representatives to create and validate blocks. This mechanism reduces network congestion and improves transaction speed without compromising security or decentralization.

**Is TRX suitable for long-term investment?**
TRX can be a long-term hold due to its ecosystem growth, staking incentives, and adoption across gaming and entertainment DApps. Investors should consider market volatility and assess risk before committing capital.

—

### BullZilla (ZIL) Roars Into the Market — Is This the Next 100x Gem?

BullZilla (ZIL) is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the most promising 100x crypto projects of the year, drawing attention through its highly successful presale and vibrant, community-driven momentum.

The project’s innovative tokenomics are designed to benefit holders in multiple ways, including staking rewards, referral incentives, and a strategic burn mechanism that enhances token scarcity and value.

With Stage 9D currently trading at $0.00023906, BullZilla has already raised over $1 million and sold 31 billion tokens, demonstrating strong early demand and market confidence. Early investors are already seeing returns exceeding 2100%, highlighting the project’s growth potential.

The earliest BullZilla presale has delivered remarkable ROI potential, exceeding 4000%, underscoring the power of early participation in high-demand crypto opportunities.

For those considering entry now, a $5,000 investment could position holders to benefit significantly from anticipated market movements, including a potential 2.79% price surge.

The combination of presale momentum, staking rewards, referral programs, and token burns creates a dynamic ecosystem that actively incentivizes engagement and long-term holding.

BullZilla’s transparent roadmap and strong community support further enhance its credibility, making it an attractive option for investors seeking high-growth, high-potential cryptocurrency opportunities in 2025.

—

### From $5K to Financial Freedom? BullZilla’s 2105% ROI Is Shaking Up the Crypto Jungle

Investing $5,000 in BullZilla during Stage 9D offers the potential for substantial returns. With the current ROI reaching an impressive 2105%, early participants stand to benefit from exponential growth as the project advances through its roadmap.

BullZilla’s strong market potential is further supported by a combination of staking rewards, active presale momentum, and strategic token burns designed to enhance scarcity and value.

This carefully structured ecosystem not only incentivizes early investment but also strengthens long-term engagement, positioning BullZilla as a promising contender in the rapidly evolving crypto market for investors seeking high-growth opportunities.

—

### How to Join the BullZilla Presale

Joining the BullZilla presale is a simple and seamless process designed for both new and experienced crypto users.

1. Visit the official BullZilla presale platform.
2. Securely connect your preferred cryptocurrency wallet.
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions on the platform to purchase ZIL tokens.
4. Review all details before confirming your transaction to ensure accuracy.

Participation should be completed promptly, as token allocations are limited and only available until the presale period concludes. Acting early guarantees your spot in this high-demand offering.

#### Frequently Asked Questions About BullZilla Presale

**When will BullZilla tokens appear in my wallet?**
Presale tokens might not appear immediately due to network confirmation processes and predetermined vesting schedules. Once officially allocated, they will appear in compatible wallets following the timelines outlined in the project’s roadmap.

**How can I identify authentic BullZilla channels?**
Always confirm authenticity by visiting the official BullZilla website. Avoid clicking on suspicious Telegram or social media links and never share private keys or seed phrases with anyone.

**What makes the BullZilla presale special?**
The presale provides exclusive early access to highly sought-after tokens, with added perks like staking rewards and referral incentives. Its transparent structure and active community engagement set it apart from typical early-stage crypto offerings.

Secure your BullZilla tokens today—over 31 billion already sold. Don’t miss your chance to earn massive ROI!

—

### Cardano: Pioneering the Future of Blockchain

Cardano’s proof-of-stake blockchain emphasizes security, scalability, and sustainability. Its ADA token underpins smart contracts, DeFi projects, and staking rewards, making it a core choice for investors prioritizing the long-term potential of the network.

Cardano’s structured development approach ensures rigorous peer-reviewed protocols, enhancing trust and adoption. The network continues to expand globally, with growing partnerships in education, finance, and government sectors.

While its slower rollout compared to competitors may frustrate impatient investors, Cardano’s measured approach reduces technical risks. With a robust ecosystem and staking incentives, it remains an attractive option among top cryptos for cautious yet growth-focused participants.

#### Frequently Asked Questions About Cardano

**What makes Cardano different from other blockchains?**
Cardano emphasizes peer-reviewed research, formal verification, and an energy-efficient proof-of-stake protocol, creating a highly secure and sustainable blockchain. This approach supports long-term projects, smart contracts, and decentralized applications while maintaining reliability and scalability.

**Can ADA be staked for passive income?**
Yes. Cardano supports staking through native wallets or delegated pools, allowing users to participate in network validation. By staking ADA, holders earn rewards proportional to their stake, enhancing network security while generating consistent passive income.

—

### Conclusion

Both platforms have established themselves as reliable options for investors seeking robust infrastructure and sustainable growth.

Tron and Cardano remain cornerstone platforms in the cryptocurrency world, celebrated for their scalability, widespread adoption, and deep, evolving ecosystems. Tron’s fast transactions and DApp support continue to attract developers, while Cardano’s peer-reviewed protocols and proof-of-stake consensus provide security and long-term stability. Their consistent performance, active communities, and staking opportunities create multiple entry points for those aiming to participate in high-potential blockchain projects with long-term value.

BullZilla, in contrast, combines presale momentum, staking incentives, and a burn mechanism to deliver exceptional growth potential. Stage 9D shows ROI exceeding 2100%, signaling strong early-adopter gains and highlighting the project’s high upside for future price surges.

Its innovative tokenomics, community-driven hype, and strategic launch structure distinguish it from traditional cryptocurrencies. Investors can leverage staking rewards and early presale access to maximize returns while supporting the project’s expansion.

BullZilla’s transparency and active roadmap position it as one of the best 100x cryptos this year, making it an appealing option for forward-looking participants.

**Join BullZilla now — over 31 billion tokens sold and early investors already enjoying ROI over 2100%!**

—

### For More Information

– [BZIL Official Website]
– Join BZIL Telegram Channel

—

*This publication is sponsored.*
Coindoo does not endorse or assume responsibility for the content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products, or any other materials on this page. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before engaging in any cryptocurrency-related actions. Coindoo will not be liable, directly or indirectly, for any damages or losses resulting from the use of or reliance on any content, goods, or services mentioned. Always do your own research.

—

**Author:**
Alexander Zdravkov is a reporter at Coindoo. He has over three years of experience in the crypto space and specializes in identifying new trends in digital currencies. Through in-depth analysis and daily reports, his expertise and enthusiasm contribute valuable insights to the Coindoo team.
https://coindoo.com/1m-and-climbing-bullzilla-secures-a-spot-among-the-best-100x-cryptos-this-year-with-tron-and-cardano-leading-the-rally/

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About That “Free” Steak Dinner…

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“C” wrote in this week:

A friend (in Sweden, of all places!) told me they would pay a 17% bonus for my ~$580k traditional IRA + SEP + 401k and then, over the course of 10 years, convert to Roth, keeping income low enough to avoid an IRMAA increase (which becomes a concern at 63; I am currently 60).

As I understand it, my only risk is the opportunity cost of not maximizing market gains. Thanks for any insights you are willing/able to provide!

—

**C, hello!**

Reading what you’ve outlined, my radar detector is rapidly whirring to life, and I’m getting ready to sound a loud, red alert!

### First, let’s define this “lackluster tool” — what is a Fixed Indexed Annuity?

#### What is a Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA)?

A Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA) is an insurance product that promises two things:

– **Principal protection:** Your initial investment can’t lose value due to market declines.
– **Some upside potential:** Returns are tied to a market index (like the S&P 500), but only partially.

Here’s how it typically works: The insurance company takes your premium and invests it conservatively (mostly in bonds). They then use some of the interest earned to buy options on a market index. If the index goes up, you get a portion of the gain (through a cap or participation rate). If the index goes down, you earn zero — but you don’t lose money, either.

It sounds nice: no downside, some upside. But I think there are **WAY** more reasons to dislike FIAs.

—

### 1. High, opaque costs

The commissions paid to salespeople are often 6–10% upfront, hidden from the investor. These costs are baked into the product’s internal mechanics, resulting in lower crediting rates and slower growth for the client.

For this FIA that **“C”** is considering, the $580,000 in principal would result in a $30,000–$60,000 commission to the salesperson. That alone should give us pause.

### 2. Complexity and confusion

The jargon behind annuities is complicated: cap rates, participation rates, spreads, reset periods, and surrender charges. The numbers and their interactions are usually more complicated than the jargon!

Every annuity uses its own verbiage in unique ways, combining confusing semantics with actuarial math. It’s nearly impossible for a layperson to fully understand what they’re getting.

Complexity hides fees and limits. I’ve worked with people looking to **“unwind”** these annuities, and I detest how complex they are.

### 3. Limited upside

The fact that an FIA is “market-linked” is a misleading promise. If the market grows 15% and your FIA has a 6% cap, you only see that 6%.

They are sold as “market-linked” to make you think you’re getting a real shot at market growth. But over time, these products lag market growth by a significant margin.

### 4. Liquidity traps

Most FIAs lock your money up for 7 to 10 years. If you want out early, you face heavy surrender penalties.

This inflexibility runs counter to sound, investor-centered financial planning.

### 5. Misaligned incentives

Annuities are often **sold**, not bought or advised. Because of the big commissions, many non-fiduciary salespeople pitch them aggressively to retirees seeking safety, sometimes overstating returns or understating the downsides.

—

### What About “Annuity + Roth Conversion?”

So, looking at “C’s” FIA offer in particular, and the idea of using it as a vehicle for a Roth conversion, I’m reaching my boiling point here.

#### Point 1: The “bonus” isn’t free money

“C” was promised a 17% bonus. It sounds amazing. It’s the headline they use to hook people.

A real 17% bonus would result in actual money in your account. But this bonus is **not** cash in your account. It’s a contract value credit that only applies to income calculations after the 10-year holding period, not to the actual account you can walk away with.

The “17% bonus” is offset by:

– Lower caps on returns (your “indexed” growth potential gets throttled)
– Longer surrender periods (10+ years is common)
– Reduced liquidity (you can’t easily access your money without penalties)

The bonus is marketing sugar, not actual juice.

#### Point 2: The “10-year Roth conversion plan” sounds smart, but it’s structured to benefit the annuity company, not you.

A gradual Roth conversion can be smart, spreading tax payments over time to avoid jumping tax brackets or triggering IRMAA.

But an FIA isn’t needed to do that. You can hold your investments in a simple, low-cost IRA and still control the pace of Roth conversions each year.

What the company is really doing is locking your funds into their product. THAT IS WHY THEY SUGGEST THE 10-YEAR TIMELINE!

It’s a trap!

– It pays the agent a very large commission.
– It keeps you from easily changing course once you realize how limiting the contract is.

#### Point 3: “Only risk is opportunity cost” — That’s the sales line.

But it’s misleading. Your real risks include:

– **Liquidity risk:** You can’t access your money freely.
– **Complexity risk:** You may not understand how the product (e.g., index crediting) works until it’s too late.
– **Return risk:** FIA returns often lag simple portfolios (e.g., 60/40 indexing) by several percentage points per year.
– **Inflation risk:** Returns may not keep up with the rising cost of living.

#### Point 4: The Roth angle is a smokescreen

The sales pitch uses “Roth conversions” to sound like they’re doing careful tax planning. But the FIA company isn’t optimizing your taxes — they’re selling a contract.

A true tax planner could help you do the same Roth conversions without all the added costs or restrictions.

—

### Bottom Line

You can absolutely do a 10-year Roth conversion strategy. You just don’t need a Fixed Indexed Annuity to do it, and adding one often makes things **worse**, not better.

Annuities are sold. They aren’t bought.

For some people, that dinner you attended might have been the most expensive free dinner of their lives.

I know this sounds like scary fearmongering, and I apologize for that. But it would be scarier if you said **“yes.”**

Thank you for reading!

—

### A few quick notes for you:

**First:**
If you enjoyed this article, join thousands of subscribers who read Jesse’s free weekly email, where he sends links to the smartest financial content he finds online every week. It’s 100% free and you can unsubscribe anytime.

**Second:**
Jesse’s podcast, *Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors*, has grown ~10x over the past couple of years and now helps ~10,000 people per month. Tune in and check it out!

**Last:**
Jesse works full-time for a fiduciary wealth management firm in Upstate NY. Jesse and his colleagues help families solve the expensive problems he writes and podcasts about. Schedule a free call with Jesse to see if you’re a good fit for his practice.

We’ll talk to you soon!
https://bestinterest.blog/about-that-free-steak-dinner/

general

Butler basketball scores 112 points to beat IU Indy, but still has plenty to improve: Likes, dislikes

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**Butler Insider: Akeem Glaspie on Butler’s Season-Opening Win Over IU Indy**

Butler improved to 2-0 on the season with a commanding 112-80 victory over IU Indianapolis. Michael Ajayi led the Dawgs with 11 points and 14 rebounds, marking his second double-double in as many games since transferring from Gonzaga. Jalen Jackson contributed 17 points, eight rebounds, and three assists.

Here’s a breakdown of what stood out, what needs improvement, and what this win means for Butler moving forward.

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### What I Liked in Butler’s Win vs. IU Indy

IU Indy is known for their frenetic pace, pushing the tempo relentlessly and applying full-court pressure after made baskets. Butler navigated the press effectively, often finding open looks on the secondary break. A highlight came when Azavier “Stink” Robinson hit a jumper in transition, breaking the press in the first half.

Jalen Jackson utilized his speed to break the press and deliver lob passes to the big men inside. Butler also introduced a clever defensive tactic by putting Drayton Jones on the inbound passer in the first half. Standing 6-foot-11, Jones used his active hands and imposing presence to disrupt IU Indy’s smaller inbounder, Micah Davis (6-foot-2), resulting in a forced turnover.

Jackson’s on-ball defense was another plus. The Fort Wayne transfer racked up four steals in the first half, including a memorable play where he snatched the ball away, dribbled between a defender’s legs to maintain possession, and finished with an easy layup. Similarly, Jackson Keith showcased his strength and length to lock down opponents on defense. Five Butler players recorded blocks in the first half, highlighting strong team rim protection.

Rebounding from guards also stood out. Jackson and Robinson grabbed six and five rebounds respectively in the first half, complementing Ajayi’s nine boards. Guards who rebound well help elevate the entire team by enabling quick outlet passes and immediate transition opportunities.

Off the bench, Yohan Traore continued to provide energy and excitement. He scored 11 points, with eight coming in the second half on explosive dunks. His ability to dribble through multiple defenders and finish with authority injected life into Butler’s second-half performance.

Jack McCaffery also impressed at the five position, especially against a smaller IU Indy frontcourt. At 6-foot-9, McCaffery displayed excellent footwork and touch around the basket, regularly finishing through contact despite his lean frame. This adds a new dimension to Butler’s frontcourt rotation beyond Ajayi and Efeosa Oliogu-Elabor.

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### What I Disliked in Butler’s Win vs. IU Indy

Butler’s fast-paced style occasionally spun out of control, particularly in the first half which featured 24 fouls and 30 free throw attempts. IU Indy resorted to fouling once Butler broke their press, but the result was an ugly game flow. Butler’s poor free-throw shooting made fouling an effective strategy for the opposition, though it’s not an exciting approach to watch.

Jackson attacked the basket well but did not receive consistent support from teammates when looking to dish. Butler’s big men struggled to finish lobs cleanly, bobbling passes and allowing IU Indy’s defense to reset. Reliable hands in the paint are a valuable asset, and currently, lob plays do not seem like a dependable part of Butler’s offense.

Despite holding a 13-point lead at halftime, Butler shot very poorly, missing eight consecutive free throws at one point and going just 2-for-12 (16.7%) from three-point range in the first half. Missing that many free throws is difficult to excuse; Butler cannot afford to be this unreliable from the charity stripe in closer contests.

Turnovers also continued to plague Butler, losing the turnover battle for the second consecutive game. IU Indy capitalized on 17 Butler giveaways, turning them into 26 points. Reducing turnovers is critical for sustained success this season.

—

### What Butler’s Win vs. IU Indy Means

Butler showed it can handle teams it is favored over — the Dawgs were heavy favorites against Southern Indiana and IU Indy, and they avoided any major hiccups. However, the performance raises as many questions as it answers regarding the team’s longer-term outlook.

Butler’s ability to beat the press should be viewed in context; IU Indy lacks the length and athleticism that higher-level opponents will bring. Slow starts and poor shooting might have derailed past Butler squads, so the team deserves credit for regrouping and closing out strongly.

Overall, this win is a positive step, but consistency in execution — especially from the free-throw line and in limiting turnovers — will be necessary for Butler to thrive against tougher competition.

—

*Stay tuned for more Butler basketball insights and coverage throughout the season.*
https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/butler/2025/11/08/butler-basketball-score-today-iu-indy-game-stats-likes-dislikes-points-michael-ajayi-jalen-jackson/87166843007/

general

The First Descendant: Best Harris build guide (3-hit combo)

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If you enjoy close-combat melee action and love punching enemies in **The First Descendant**, then Harris is a character you’ll definitely enjoy playing. Harris excels at jumping from one group of enemies to another while dealing heavy melee damage. At the same time, she provides valuable support by granting overshields to herself and other party members, helping keep everyone safe from potentially fatal hits. When you include Harris in your squad, you’re likely fielding one of the safest teams in the game.

To maximize her effectiveness, having a solid build is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to mod Harris, including the ideal Reactor, External Components, and Arche Tuning setups.

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## Best Harris Build in The First Descendant

Harris is unique among Descendants because she **does not require MP to use her skills**. Instead, her first and second abilities operate on cooldowns—the shorter the cooldown, the more frequently you can use these powerful moves. Both abilities generate **Toxin**, a crucial resource needed to activate her third and fourth skills.

### Harris’s Abilities Overview

– **First Ability:** A barrage of heavy punches delivered with her unique mechanical arms called NOVA. The combo consists of three hits: the first two deal standard damage, while the third hit delivers double damage to finish off remaining enemies.

– **Crowd Control:** Each punch applies the *Towed* debuff, pulling enemies together and grouping them for easier targeting.

– **Toxin Generation:** Each hit generates Toxin, which fuels her other abilities.

With the right build, each hit from her first ability can reach **millions of damage**, making Harris especially effective across the Axion Plains and against the Void Intercept boss fights.

—

### Recommended Mod Setup for Harris’s 3-Hit Combo Build

– Safety Training (Transcendent module)
– Stim Accelerant
– Increased HP
– Nimble Fingers
– MP Conversion
– Skill Expansion
– Shield Charge
– Skill Extension
– Toxic Amplification
– Power Increase
– Pioneer’s Resolution (Ancestor module)
– Steel Vanguard (Trigger module)

Since Harris’s overshield scales with her HP, boosting your health pool significantly increases survivability. Her straightforward skill rotation focuses on constantly generating and spending Toxin. Use her first and second abilities to fill all three resource bars, then spend them immediately to maintain pressure.

Every time Harris’s Toxin level crosses certain thresholds—whether increasing or decreasing—she gains passive buffs. These buffs enhance cooldown recovery, duration, HP, defense, melee weapon attack, and skill power. Your objective is to keep these buffs active by continuously cycling your Toxin levels.

—

### Ancestor Module Details

The ideal Ancestor module for Harris is **Pioneer’s Resolution**, which allows stacking multiple stats and delivers a substantial damage boost to her abilities. If you don’t have one yet, **Skill Amplification** is a reasonable alternative.

When aiming to optimize your Pioneer’s Resolution mod, prioritize these stats:

– Skill Cooldown
– Fusion Skill Power
– HP
– MP

Keep in mind that re-rolling stats on Ancestor modules can be costly, so it’s okay to use whatever stats you currently have until you can further refine your gear.

—

## Best Reactor, External Components, and Arche Tuning for Harris

### Reactor

For Harris, the best Reactors are **Toxic Fusion** or **Toxin Tech**.

– Using a **Tech** Reactor maximizes the damage output of her punches.
– Choosing a **Fusion** Reactor boosts the damage of her laser beam ability.

For sub-stats, combining **Skill Cooldown** with either **Toxin** or **Fusion Power Boost** provides the most effective results.

### External Components

The **Plague set** is the top choice for Harris’s External Components. Although this set severely penalizes Firearm Critical Hit and Damage, equipping four Plague pieces boosts:

– Tech Power by 5%
– Toxic Skill Power by a massive 43%

Since Harris’s playstyle revolves around generating and using toxins, this substantial Toxic Skill Power boost greatly enhances her damage potential. Additionally, a custom resource generated for Harris (toxins) grants another 21% boost.

### Arche Tuning

Harris’s Arche Tuning board relies on two ultimate nodes, similar to the setup used in Hailey’s *Cold Heart* build.

– Prioritize the gold nodes **Enhanced Skill Power** for increased ability damage.
– To spam her first ability more frequently, invest in the **Enhanced Skill Cooldown** node.
– You may swap nodes based on your preference, such as exchanging **Enhanced Additional Skill ATK** or **Colossus** for **Skill Range** or more HP.

For the **Mutant Cell**, equip **Toxin Chain Catalyst** to reduce enemy resistance each time you hit them with a skill, further amplifying your damage output.

—

With these mods, components, and tuning choices, Harris becomes a powerhouse close-combat melee fighter with excellent survivability and team support. This build is well-suited for tackling all in-game content, ensuring you get the most out of her abilities in **The First Descendant**.

For more strategies and character guides, be sure to check out our other related articles!
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mmo/the-first-descendant-tfd-best-harris-build-guide