CoinTalk

Bitcoin just plunged below $110,000 amid market turmoil — is this a temporary dip or a sign of deeper weakness?

The search for the latest blockbuster or a favorite classic movie can be a journey. You want to watch great content, especially popular Telugu, Hindi, and Tamil films, without juggling a dozen different subscriptions. In that search, you've probably come across names like Bappam TV.

The proposition sounds like a tempting one. An app that will give you all the free movies you want. Well, before you hit that download button, let's go ahead and have a real conversation about what these services are and the hidden risks you might not be aware of.

What is Bappam TV?

Bappam TV is known on the internet as a third-party application that offers a massive library of copyrighted movies and TV shows for free streaming and download. It is not an official or legal service. These types of apps operate in a legal gray area at best, and are often outright illegal.

The Hidden Cost of "Free": Why You Should Be Cautious

When a service is offering thousands of copyrighted movies for free, it's wise to ask: "How are they making money?" The answer is often in ways that can put you at risk.

• Security Risks (Malware & Data): Unofficial apps are a massive threat for proliferation of malware, spyware, and viruses. Installation of the app on your device could allow malicious actors to access your personal data, photographs, and even financial information.
• Legal Risks: Streaming or downloading copyrighted material without permission is illegal in almost every country. Though rare, the risk of prosecution does remain.

The Better Way - Safe and Legal Alternatives

Good news: you don't have to expose yourself to these dangers to see great content! The official streaming environment has never been better or so affordable. Here are a few premier legal and safe alternatives where you can find those movies you are looking for:

While these services have a subscription fee, that fee buys you peace of mind: a secure app, high-quality streaming, and the knowledge that you are supporting the creators who make the movies you love.

Your Choice: Risk vs. Reliability

"Free" remains the greatest temptation for many, yet little thought goes into the price that may be paid for one's very security. To choose a legitimate service is actually to choose a better, safer, and more enjoyable experience.

Did you know that you can actually stream with confidence? Go ahead and explore the great libraries on any one of the above safe and legal platforms and enjoy the show, worry-free.

Why did Circle mint $250 million new USDC on Solana in one day, and what impact could this flood of stablecoin supply have on Solana’s ecosystem and crypto markets overall?

With Solana’s four-year September win streak facing a break due to declining network activity and weaker trader interest, which crypto looks like the best buy right now—and why might it outperform SOL under these conditions?

Why Investing in Crypto Without Sleep Deprivation Could Revolutionize Your Portfolio with the Fidelity Ethereum ETF

To be honest, I was completely overwhelmed when I first looked at Ethereum and the cryptocurrency landscape. There are numerous security risks, private keys, and wallets. However, everything made sense when I learned about the Fidelity Ethereum Fund, or FETH. This is not some obscure crypto experiment. It’s a fully regulated Ethereum ETF approved by the SEC in July 2024. For anyone in the U.S. who wants to invest in Ethereum without getting lost in the technical stuff, it’s a game-changer.

What Makes an Ethereum ETF Different?

So, what exactly is an Ethereum ETF? Think of it like a stock that follows Ethereum’s price. You don’t have to buy ETH on Coinbase or Binance, you just buy shares through your normal brokerage account—Fidelity, Robinhood, Charles Schwab, whichever you’re comfortable with. No private keys, no risking your coins in some exchange you barely understand. For me, the simplicity alone was worth it.

Why FETH Feels Safer Than Buying ETH Directly

FETH lets you trade Ethereum just like a regular stock. That’s huge because if you’re used to the stock market, the learning curve is minimal. Plus, it’s SEC-approved, which means there’s a layer of oversight you just don’t get when holding crypto on your own. That alone gives me a lot of peace of mind. And if you’re anything like me, with a mix of stocks and bonds in your portfolio, adding FETH isn’t just a new investment—it’s a way to diversify into an entirely different asset class. It feels like stepping into a new world, but with some safety rails in place.

Ethereum: More Than Just a Coin

Ethereum isn’t just another cryptocurrency—it’s an entire ecosystem. Since 2015, it’s been the foundation for smart contracts, decentralized apps, NFTs, and DeFi projects. Watching it grow has been fascinating. Its price jumped over 80% since February 2024, partly thanks to excitement around ETFs like FETH and increased interest from big institutional investors. Investing in Ethereum isn’t just about chasing a quick gain; it feels like being part of a real financial revolution, something bigger than any single stock or bond.

Why Fidelity’s Version Stands Out

Fidelity is a name I trust, and with FETH, they’ve made it simple. The fund invests directly in Ether—no complicated derivatives, no futures contracts—just pure exposure. The ETH is stored securely with top-tier custody solutions, so I don’t lie awake worrying about hacks. And the best part? They’ve waived all fees until the end of 2024. I can even hold it in an IRA or other tax-advantaged accounts, something I can’t do with most crypto exchanges. It’s the kind of thoughtful structure that makes me comfortable investing here.

How I Invested in FETH Personally

It was surprisingly easy for me to get started. To make sure I bought at a price I was comfortable with, I created a brokerage account, made a deposit, looked up FETH, and put in a limit order. My recommendation? Avoid making a hasty decision. Begin modestly. Ethereum has a lot of volatility, and it's simple to get swept up in the hype. I routinely monitor the market and stay up to date on Ethereum's ecosystem. The objective is to remain informed while maintaining composure, not to become fixated on every price change.

Advantages and Dangers Based on My Experience

What I've learned from my time with FETH is that it's easy, regulated, and economical with the current fee waiver. However, Ethereum is erratic, and FETH does not offer the same staking benefits as direct ETH ownership. There is always a chance that regulations will change, and management fees will start to apply after 2024. Nevertheless, being aware of these risks up front allows me to make decisions with confidence rather than speculating or freaking out when the market fluctuates. For me, knowing these risks helps me sleep better at night and manage my portfolio responsibly.

Why This ETF Matters for U.S. Investors

For Americans, especially those with retirement accounts, this is huge. Before ETFs like FETH, there was no easy way to get crypto exposure in a 401(k) or IRA. Now, you can diversify, potentially capture Ethereum’s growth, and stay within regulatory limits. Personally, it feels like the best of both worlds: crypto upside without the usual headaches.

My Final Take

Fidelity Ethereum ETF is a tool I’m genuinely excited about. It offers regulated, accessible exposure to Ethereum, with a zero-fee incentive through 2024, secure custody, and compatibility with traditional accounts. It’s not risk-free—Ethereum can be volatile—but for anyone willing to think long-term, it’s worth considering. Start small, stay informed, and treat it like a strategic addition to your portfolio rather than a gamble.

MegaETH claims real-time blockchain speed with 100,000 TPS and block times of ~10ms — is this the future standard for Ethereum L2s, or is it trading decentralization for speed?

If you're a small business owner wondering what banks do SBA loans or who does SBA loans, you're in the right place. SBA loans are a popular financing option backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, but the loans themselves come from approved lenders like banks, credit unions, and specialized financial institutions. Choosing the right SBA lender can make a big difference in your loan approval process, interest rates, and overall experience.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the best SBA lenders for 2025, explain how SBA loans work, and give you tips on finding the best banks for SBA loans that fit your business needs.

What Are SBA Lenders and How Do SBA Loans Work?

SBA lenders are financial institutions authorized by the SBA to offer loans partially guaranteed by the government. This guarantee reduces the lender’s risk, allowing them to offer more favorable terms such as lower down payments, longer repayment periods, and competitive interest rates.

The SBA doesn’t lend money directly; instead, it partners with these lenders to help small businesses access capital. SBA loans come in various types, with the most common being:

• SBA 7(a) loans: The most popular loan type, used for working capital, equipment, real estate, and debt refinancing.
• SBA 504 loans: Designed for purchasing fixed assets like real estate or large equipment, often involving a Certified Development Company (CDC) alongside a bank.
• SBA Microloans: Smaller loans (up to $50,000) offered through nonprofit intermediaries to help startups and small businesses.

Who Are the Best SBA Lenders in 2025?

Based on loan volume, approval rates, and borrower experience, here are some of the top SBA lenders to consider:

1. Newtek Bank

Newtek Bank is currently the most active SBA lender by total loan amount, having issued over $1 billion in SBA 7(a) loans in fiscal year 2025. They serve U.S.-based, for-profit businesses with at least two to three years of tax returns. Newtek offers personalized service with a dedicated lending specialist who guides you through the entire process.

2. Huntington National Bank

Huntington approved the most SBA 7(a) loans in fiscal year 2024 and continues to be a top lender in 2025. They offer loans up to $5 million with down payments as low as 10%, along with SBA Express loans for faster access to smaller amounts. Huntington also runs the Lift Local Business Program, supporting minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses with financial education and SBA loan assistance.

3. Northeast Bank

Northeast Bank is a top lender by number of loans approved and total loan amount. Based in Maine, it offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $500,000 and streamlines the application process through online tools, making it easier for borrowers to apply with fewer documents.

4. Readycap Lending

Readycap Lending, a subsidiary of Ready Capital, has issued over $550 million in SBA 7(a) loans in 2025. They provide loans ranging from $350,000 to $5 million for business expansion, equipment purchase, working capital, and refinancing.

5. Live Oak Banking Company

Live Oak Bank is the second-most active SBA 7(a) lender by dollar amount and offers an online-based application process nationwide. They provide loans up to $5 million with up to 90% financing and typically require a 10% down payment. Live Oak also offers SBA 504 loans for larger projects.

6. JPMorgan Chase Bank

JPMorgan Chase, one of the largest banks in the U.S., offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million and SBA Express loans up to $500,000. They provide SBA 504 loans for equipment and real estate purchases, with dedicated loan officers to assist borrowers.

7. Lendistry

Lendistry is a minority-led community development financial institution that focuses on underserved communities. They offer SBA 7(a) loans between $25,000 and $5 million with an entirely online application process and personalized customer support.

8. TD Bank

TD Bank ranks among the top SBA lenders by loan approval count and offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million, SBA 504 loans, and SBA Express loans up to $350,000.

9. BayFirst National Bank

BayFirst offers a fast funding SBA Bolt Loan program with amounts up to $150,000 and funding within days. They also provide standard SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million.

10. Celtic Bank

Celtic Bank offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million, Express loans up to $150,000, construction loans, and SBA loans over $5 million. They are a preferred SBA lender headquartered in Utah.

How to Choose the Best SBA Lender for Your Business

Finding the right SBA lender depends on your business needs and preferences. Here are some tips:

• Start with your current bank or credit union: Existing relationships can speed up approval.
• Use the SBA Lender Match tool: Answer a few questions on the SBA website to get matched with lenders suited to your needs.
• Compare loan terms: Interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and down payment requirements vary by lender.
• Ask about the application process: Does the lender assign a dedicated loan specialist? How long does approval typically take?
• Check if the lender is SBA Preferred: Preferred Lenders can approve loans faster without SBA review.

What Do SBA Lenders Look For?

To qualify for an SBA loan, lenders typically require:

• A credit score of at least 640.
• A solid business plan and financial statements.
• Proof of ability to repay the loan.
• Collateral for larger loans.
• Usually two or more years in business (some exceptions for microloans).

Final Thoughts on SBA Lenders

SBA loans can be a lifeline for small businesses, offering affordable financing with flexible terms. Choosing the right SBA lender is crucial to getting the best deal and a smooth application experience. Whether you go with a big bank like JPMorgan Chase or a specialized lender like Live Oak Bank, make sure to shop around, prepare your documents, and understand your options.

It's a painfully familiar story for the XRP community: the price is dropping, and this time, the blame is being placed on  spreading risk-off sentiment.

This fancy phrase simply means that investors are scared, fleeing volatile assets like crypto and heading for safe havens like the dollar. And on the surface, it makes sense.

When fear hits the market, the riskiest assets are the first to get dumped. XRP, with its volatile history, certainly falls into that category.

But personally, I find this  risk-off  narrative to be a lazy, catch-all excuse that masks deeper, more asset-specific problems. For years, XRP has been sold as the  future of finance,  the  bridge between banks,  an asset that supposedly has real, world-changing utility.

If that were true, why is it always the first asset to be jettisoned at the first sign of fear? Why isn't it seen as a safe haven in times of uncertainty?

The hard truth is that XRP has been bogged down in a regulatory quagmire for years, and its consistent price underperformance relative to Bitcoin and Ethereum has eroded the confidence of anyone outside its loyalist circle.

Using  risk-off as a scapegoat feels like a way to avoid confronting the uncomfortable truth: that the asset itself may have fundamental flaws preventing it from performing, regardless of the broader market mood.

So is  risk-off truly the force crushing XRP, or is it just the newest excuse for an asset that has been promising a future that never seems to arrive?