Our weekly crypto derivatives analytics report delves into macro events, the current state of crypto and trading signals from spot trading volume, and futures, options and perpetual contracts.

December's end-of-year options expiration brought an unexpected drop as realized volatility fell to the lowest levels of the month. Perpetual swap open interest remained stable, indicating these markets weren't heavily used for hedging against expired options, likely contributing to the muted volatility. 

While most expired open interest in Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) hasn't been reinvested, the balance of calls and puts remains consistent. Notably, ETH options are pricing in higher implied volatility as compared to BTC, particularly for shorter expirations, leading to a flat term structure for ETH, while BTC is offering cheaper options exposure.

In the perpetual markets, low volatility and minimal spot movements have led funding rates for nearly all tokens to mirror broader market sentiment throughout the holiday season. On the options side, BTC's term structure is noticeably lower and steeper than ETH's, with realized volatility now dipping below implied volatility levels, highlighting an intriguing shift in market dynamics.

Please check out the report’s highlights.

Open Interest Solid Amid Year-End Options Expiration

Although open interest for both BTC and ETH perpetual swaps hasn’t returned to early December 2024 highs, it remained robust throughout the significant end-of-year options expiration event. This suggests that these markets weren’t heavily utilized to 

 of the expiring options contracts, likely contributing to the lack of volatility observed during this period. Instead, trading volumes have dipped noticeably during the winter holiday season, coinciding with a collapse in realized volatility back to December 2024’s lowest levels.

BTC Option Curve Remains Steep During Call-Put Parity

The expiration of December's end-of-year options didn’t trigger the anticipated surge in volatility; instead, realized volatility has plummeted to the lower end of its recent range. The implied volatility term structure remains steep compared to both its recent behavior and ETH's, with longer-dated implied volatility around 57%, and 1-week at-the-money options trading about five points lower. Much of the expired open interest hasn’t yet been rolled into new positions, maintaining a neutral balance between puts and calls. Consequently, BTC's options market positioning is relatively neutral, lacking the leverage it had at the start of December 2024.

Huge ETH Option Expiring Doesn’t Cause Volatility

A late December spike in realized volatility didn’t carry into the new year, with ETH’s spot price currently exhibiting volatility below that of short-tenor implied volatility. Interestingly, the implied volatility term structure has undergone a steepening and re-flattening over the past week, contrasting with BTC’s slightly steeper profile. This suggests that ETH’s options market is anticipating higher short-term volatility in spot price movements. 

Despite the significant expiration of options open interest at the end of December 2024, which didn’t lead to a rollover into later expirations, call options continue to dominate the market and have increased at the start of 2025.

Advanced

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Bybit X Block Scholes Crypto Derivatives Analytics Report (Jan 2, 2025): BTC Options Continue to See Call-Put Parity, With Lower Short-Term Volatility Expected

Dive into FLock, a decentralized platform that revolutionizes the way AI models are developed, trained and deployed.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to transform countless industries, but its development often raises questions about privacy, control and inclusivity. 

 is a unique decentralized platform that democratizes AI training, fine-tuning and inferencing. With its blockchain-powered infrastructure, FLock ensures transparency, security and community-driven decision-making, paving the way for AI models that align with established societal values. 

In this article, we’ll explore how FLock decentralizes AI training, its key features and its potential impact on developers, communities and users.

 platform that revolutionizes the way AI models are developed, trained and deployed. By leveraging blockchain technology and a novel approach called 

, FLock addresses critical issues in AI development, such as centralized control, lack of transparency and privacy concerns.

At its core, FLock’s mission is to democratize AI by enabling communities to participate directly in the creation and refinement of AI models. Through federated learning, FLock trains AI models across multiple decentralized devices or servers. This method ensures that data remains local, eliminating the need for raw data exchange while still enabling robust model training. By decentralizing the training process, FLock not only protects individual privacy, but also fosters a more inclusive ecosystem in which diverse contributors can collaborate.

What sets FLock apart is its integration of 

. This ensures that all contributions — whether data, compute power or feedback — are transparently recorded and fairly rewarded. Blockchain tech’s immutable ledger enhances trust among participants and safeguards the process against manipulation. Additionally, the platform’s on-chain incentive mechanisms encourage participation from a wide range of contributors, ensuring that rewards are distributed equitably.

Ultimately, FLock empowers communities to develop bespoke AI models tailored to their specific needs. By decentralizing the process and prioritizing transparency and collaboration, FLock breaks the monopoly of large corporations, creating an AI ecosystem that aligns with public ethics and societal values.

, an Oxford alumnus with a robust background in AI and blockchain technology. Sun, who serves as FLock's CEO, has an impressive career trajectory, having worked as the Director of AI for the Royal Bank of Canada and as an AI Research Fellow at Imperial College London. His vision for FLock stems from a deep understanding of both the technical and ethical challenges of AI development.

The founding team also includes other Oxford alumni, boasting over a decade of combined experience in AI research and the cryptocurrency industry. This team brings a collective blend of academic excellence and practical expertise that positions FLock to lead the decentralized AI movement.

FLock has successfully raised $11 million in funding across two rounds, reflecting strong investor confidence in its vision. In May 2024, FLock secured a $6 million seed round co-led by Lightspeed Faction and Tagus Capital, with additional backing from Digital Currency Group (DCG), Volt Capital, OKX Ventures and Inception Capital.

Later, in December 2024, FLock announced a $3 million successful funding round led by DCG and joined by prominent names like Animoca Brands, Fenbushi Capital, GnosisVC and GSR. These investments are being channelled into enhancing the platform’s testnet and federated learning client, accelerating FLock’s mission of enabling secure, collaborative AI development.

With this funding and over 1,500 nodes contributing from platforms like Numerai and Kaggle, FLock is rapidly scaling its impact on decentralized AI training.

FLock AI revolutionizes AI development through its decentralized training framework. This approach allows participants to contribute to AI model training without ever sharing their personal data. Instead, models are trained locally across devices using federated learning, which ensures that data remains with its owners while still enhancing the accuracy of the model overall. 

FLock’s reward system is designed to incentivize active participation. Contributors who provide data, computational power and/or feedback are compensated with FLOCK tokens, ensuring a fair distribution of rewards. 

FLock empowers its community through a robust governance framework. Decisions regarding AI model development, deployment and ethical considerations are driven by the community, ensuring alignment with established societal values. Through blockchain-based voting mechanisms, contributors can influence the direction of AI projects, fostering transparency and public accountability. 

FLock’s modular architecture allows contributors to participate in specific aspects of AI model development. Whether providing raw data or computational power or even refining algorithms, the platform enables a collaborative and scalable development process. 

At the core of FLock’s philosophy is its commitment to privacy and security. By leveraging blockchain technology, the platform ensures that no single entity controls the AI development process. Data remains local and protected by cryptographic measures, while the immutability of blockchain guarantees transparency in every transaction and model update. 

 begins with a blockchain and an AI layer.

The blockchain layer underpins FLock’s incentivization and security mechanisms.

The AI layer facilitates model training, refinement and deployment, leveraging both centralized and federated approaches.

Let’s have a look at the supply and demand for the FLOCK token.

FLock adopts a 1:2 ratio model between team/investors (33.3%) and community (66.7%), prioritizing community-driven growth and ecosystem expansion. The majority of tokens are allocated to incentivize user participation and long-term ecosystem success.

FLock aims to improve the future of AI development by decentralizing the training process and ensuring transparency, privacy and inclusivity. By leveraging blockchain and federated learning, FLock empowers communities to contribute to AI creation without compromising on privacy. Its innovative reward system and community-driven governance foster a fair and collaborative ecosystem. 

With significant backing and a growing network of contributors, FLock is positioning itself as a leader in decentralized AI, offering a more ethical and secure alternative to traditional AI development models. As it continues to scale, FLock is set to transform the way AI models are built and deployed.

 — and earn a share of a 10 million FLOCK prize pool. For more details, visit 

Intermediate

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FLock AI: Decentralized AI Training

In this tutorial, we’ll explore how you can complete a series of tasks in Network3 for Bybit Web3 Airdrop Arcade.

Task 1: Register for a Network3 Account and Connect Your Bybit Wallet 

: Navigate to the campaign page and click on the 

task. Click on the task, and Galxe will ask to redirect you to the Network3 register page.

: Register for a Network3 account using your email address. You may indicate a 

Task 2: Download the Network3 App and Run a Node for One Hour

 and choose your operating system to download the Network3 app.

 or powerbutton, depending upon which operating system you’re using. For ease of reference, we’ve used macOS and iOS as examples below.

: Keep running the node until the timer reaches 

Beginner

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How to Complete Network3 Tasks for Bybit Web3 Airdrop Arcade

Bybit launched the Bybit Merch Creative Challenge for university students worldwide, offering a $50,000 USDT prize pool.

The S&P 500 dropped 0.22% on Thursday, its fifth straight decline, with investors eyeing Friday’s economic updates. Coindesk Indices, an index measuring broader cryptocurrency market performance was up by 2.03%, with Bitcoin and Ether rising by 2.79% and 2.70%, respectively in the past 24 hours.

Today's top performer is XRP, which surged 1.9% following a rise in price driven by increased open interest and positive market sentiment.

Ripple (XRP), launched in August 2012, is a blockchain technology company focused on improving international payments with its cryptocurrency, XRP. XRP price surged due to increased open interest, a major XRP transfer, and market sentiment linked to Trump's inauguration. Bullish momentum is supported by high short liquidations, with key resistance levels to watch for further price movement.

Check Out the Latest Prices, Charts, and Data of 

 for university students worldwide, offering a $50,000 USDT prize pool. Participants can design exclusive Bybit merchandise, with submissions open until Jan. 15, 2025. Winners will be announced on Feb. 1, 2025, across four prize categories.

Yesterday, Bitcoin Spot ETFs recorded a total inflow of $84.8M, driven by $107.9M from non-GBTC funds, partially offset by a $23.1M outflow from GBTC.

, offering an airdrop for participants who complete tasks like swapping and bridging using the Mango wallet. Points earned through tasks determine airdrop rewards. Join via the Mango wallet and follow steps on the testnet dashboard.

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Bybit Launches $50,000 Merch Design Challenge for University Students Worldwide

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Moonray, a futuristic action role-playing game built on the Cardano blockchain, features multiplayer combat and collectible NFTs. Learn more about it here.

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 (MNRY) is the subject of the latest buzz in blockchain gaming, with its thrilling post-apocalyptic arenas and immersive gameplay. This futuristic, action role-playing game (RPG) built on the 

 blockchain combines intense multiplayer combat with the power of 

 and decentralized ownership. In this article, we’ll delve into 

s origins, gameplay mechanics and tokenomics, and analyze the potential of the MNRY token as an investment. 

, a futuristic action role-playing game built on the Cardano blockchain, features multiplayer combat and collectible NFTs. In this 

 game, players engage in team battles and melee combat for a chance to earn NFTs and tokens. 

 is the brainchild of Moonray PBC, a game developer founded by 

. The Moonray PBC team envisioned an RPG that would provide a unique and immersive gaming experience by combining traditional gameplay with 

. The idea is to promote digital ownership and decentralized experiences, giving players more control and involvement within their gaming. 

In March 2022, select players began testing the game on PC, paving the way for the alpha version's release on the Epic Games Store in July 2024. Since its inception, 

 has secured $10 million in funding, with backing from major players like Animoca Brands and Polygon Ventures.

 seeks to tackle challenges to the mass adoption of blockchain games by delivering a more immersive, rewarding and sustainable gaming experience with the following features:

s third-person multiplayer combat game immerses players in a surreal, post-apocalyptic sci-fi universe. Initially, it was being developed on 

 network, with a core focus on fighting and role-playing elements. However, the game has since shifted to a competitive multiplayer combat arena format and moved to the Cardano blockchain to better meet its infrastructure needs.

s gameplay consists of intense, fast-paced arena battles that blend melee and ranged combat. Players can master an array of weapons, from agile sabers and powerful cleavers to precise blasters and explosive cannons. Each weapon comes with its own unique combo sequences and special moves, challenging players to think strategically and time their actions perfectly. A novel dynamic movement system features a grappling hook that allows players to traverse environments swiftly, escape danger or gain tactical advantages during combat.

The game’s integration of blockchain technology introduces game-changing innovation. Since players can truly own their in-game assets as NFTs, they can mint, collect and trade items on platforms such as 

 also incorporates token-based wagering, further heightening the stakes by giving competitive players the opportunity to bet tokens on matches. 

 is set in a vividly rendered sci-fi world filled with dynamic environments and interactive elements. Players can confront environmental hazards, upgrade characters and personalize their experience with customizable skins and weapon enhancements. This granular attention to detail enhances the game’s immersive quality, giving every battle a uniquely engaging feel.

 benefits from scalability, low transaction costs and a secure infrastructure, ensuring a smooth and efficient gaming experience for all participants.

 mode, players are thrust into a chaotic, free-for-all battle in which the goal is simple yet exhilarating: eliminate as many opponents as possible. Up to eight players compete in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment, each vying for the top spot by scoring the highest number of eliminations before the clock runs out. This mode emphasizes quick reflexes, sharp strategy and adaptability, as players try to outgun their opponents while navigating the dynamic battlefield with precision. 

In Team Deathmatch mode, players form teams of four (4v4) and collaborate to defeat rival teams in intense, tactical battles. Unlike the free-for-all chaos of Deathmatch mode, Team Deathmatch places a premium on teamwork, communication and strategic planning. In order to succeed, players must coordinate their movements, synchronize attacks and support one another on both offense and defense. Every member’s role becomes crucial as the team works together to outmaneuver the opposition and secure victory. 

Objective-Based modes shift the focus from simple elimination to completing specific tasks that demand both combat prowess and strategic coordination. Teams must work together to accomplish objectives, such as capturing key points, securing specific areas or completing missions within a set time frame. Success in these modes takes more than simply fighting, requiring careful tactical planning, precise timing and seamless teamwork. Players must balance offense with defense in order to control critical objectives — while preventing the opposing team from doing the same. 

 has achieved several key milestones since its inception:

 standard. It’s used to purchase battle passes, unlock in-game assets and participate in tournaments and prize fights. Players can also use MNRY to create NFTs from in-game assets and trade them on marketplaces. MNRY tokens are also required for 

 to participate in governance through the Moonray DAO.

The total supply of MNRY is capped at 1 billion tokens, with no further issuance planned (in order to maintain scarcity and value). Token distribution is as follows:

 $0.1168 and $0.1716 by the end of 2024, with an average price of $0.1421. By 2025, it could reach a high of $0.3121, and by 2030 it’s projected to peak at $0.3001.

Analysts at DigitalCoinPrice offer a slightly more optimistic outlook, 

 $0.22 by the end of 2024 and climb to around $0.27 by the end of 2025. By 2030, they estimate the token could soar to $0.83.

Looking to trade the MNRY token? Bybit now offers the MNRY/USDT Spot trading pair. To get started, you’ll first need to sign up for a Bybit account, then fund it with cryptocurrency and navigate to the 

To celebrate this listing, Bybit is holding 

 in which you can earn a share of a 5,000,000 MNRY prize pool. In addition, collect puzzle pieces in the 

 adventure to win from another 5,000,000 MNRY prize pool.

MNRY presents a promising investment opportunity, thanks to its strong utility within the 

 ecosystem, where it’s used for in-game purchases, NFTs and staking for governance. The game’s solid backing (including $10 million in funding and strategic partnerships), coupled with its blockchain integration for true asset ownership, provides a compelling foundation. 

Additionally, the MNRY token’s finite supply and growing market projections indicate potential value appreciation. However, as with any investment, consider the risk involved, especially given the volatility of the gaming and cryptocurrency sectors.

s MNRY token and innovative gaming model are bridging the gap between traditional gameplay and blockchain technology. The game presents a fresh frontier for both players and investors, unlocking exciting opportunities for those who believe in the future of decentralized gaming. Whether you’re diving into the game’s action as a player or exploring it as an investment, 

 is definitely a project to watch, and its post-apocalyptic battlegrounds are ready. Are you prepared to claim your victory?

Moonray (MNRY): Battle for Rewards in a Post-Apocalyptic Arena

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards