Business
Bitcoin turns Crypto market pink, Investors flee to U.S. Dollar
Bitcoin turns Crypto market pink, Investors flee to U.S. Dollar
Bitcoin’s correction below $96,000 has caused the cryptocurrency market to turn “pink.”
This most recent rally is by no means inconsequential, as retail and institutional data indicate waning demand.
Although the asset seems to be moving independently of the fundamentals of cryptocurrency, it is being influenced by an unpredictable macroeconomic environment.
Bitcoin is still gaining attention, even though trade tensions between the U.S. and China are causing market jitters. Derivative structures, sentiment indicators, and investment flows all suggest a rise in caution.
The announcement of new Chinese tariffs on the world’s largest economy weakened risk appetite. Bitcoin immediately lost the bullish momentum that was part of a larger trend of people fleeing to safer assets in the face of trade tensions.
Although Donald Trump’s response, which imposed a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum, caused traditional markets to stabilize, the market swiftly recovered and regained confidence.
This political response also allowed Bitcoin to find some air. However, market fundamentals show that retail and institutional weakness indicators are present.
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According to the data, institutional purchasing volumes are not impressive. $204 million was invested in Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. between February 3 and February 7, compared to $742.3 million worth of Bitcoin purchased by Strategy during that time. A definite sign that leveraged traders are lowering their exposure is the sharp decline in futures premiums, which went from 11% in early February to 8%.
Investors are choosing safe-havens, as evidenced by yield declines in U.S. Treasury notes. This momentum has made the U.S. dollar index show strength, reflecting an increase in risk aversion in international markets.
The U.S. Fed’s latest signals also show less incentive to cut rates quickly, further putting Bitcoin bulls in jeopardy.
U.S. Economy Supports Fed’s Caution
“Overall, the economy is doing well,” Jerome Powell stated at his Senate hearing on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. As a result, he defended the Fed’s monetary policy wait-and-see approach. Even though inflation is higher than the 2 percent target, the Fed does not anticipate any more rate cuts in the near future.
Monetary easing is anticipated to be restricted to 35 basis points by the end of the year.
The dollar fell 0.17%, or 17 points, and is currently trading at 108 index points on the greenback index in response to this cautious approach.
The spotlight now shifts to the inflation figures for January, scheduled to be unveiled on Wednesday.
If these figures indicate persistently elevated inflation, they might prompt the Fed to prolong its stringent policy, curtailing any optimism surrounding a vigorous reduction in interest rates.
Powell will continue his hearing before the House of Representatives, posing a fresh challenge for the market, which will strive to adjust its forecasts concerning the U.S. monetary policy’s trajectory.
The market is also dealing with a fresh rise in protectionism. The threat of a trade war with the European Union has been reignited by Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% increase in customs duties on steel and aluminum imports.
The foreign exchange market reacted to these announcements immediately. The Japanese yen lost ground against the dollar, dropping 0.3 percent to 152.0, while the euro increased 0.22% to $1.03. Investors are looking to safe-haven assets in this uncertain climate, especially gold, which is seeing a resurgence in interest.
Global markets are becoming more tense as the Fed maintains its position and the White House toughens its trade stance.
Bitcoin turns Crypto market pink, Investors flee to U.S. Dollar
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Auto
Jetour X90 Plus Combines Power, Luxury, Family-Friendly Space in One Package
Jetour X90 Plus Combines Power, Luxury, Family-Friendly Space in one Package
As demand grows for spacious, feature-rich and value-driven SUVs in Nigeria, the Jetour X90 Plus is carving out a strong reputation as a premium family vehicle that seamlessly combines luxury, advanced safety technology and impressive performance.
Designed to meet the needs of modern families and ambitious professionals, the seven-seater SUV delivers a compelling blend of comfort, practicality and innovation, making it one of the standout contenders in Nigeria’s highly competitive mid-size SUV market.
The Jetour X90 Plus offers an appealing mix of generous cabin space, refined styling and cutting-edge technology, positioning it as a vehicle built for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.
Its growing presence in the Nigerian market is further strengthened by an extensive dealership network comprising Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era AutoVehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos Limited, R. T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Autos, according to a statement by Jetour Nigeria Mobility Services.
The SUV’s bold exterior is defined by a prominent hexagonal grille, sleek LED headlamps and a commanding road presence that projects confidence and sophistication.
Under the hood, the X90 Plus is available with two turbocharged powertrains.
The 1.6-litre turbo engine generates 197 horsepower and 290Nm of torque, while the 2.0-litre turbocharged variant delivers a more robust 254 horsepower and 390Nm of torque.
Both engines are mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel-drive system, ensuring responsive performance, fuel efficiency and smooth handling across varying road conditions.
Measuring 4,858mm in length, 1,925mm in width and 1,780mm in height, the SUV translates its substantial dimensions into a remarkably spacious interior.
The seven-seat cabin features premium materials, soft-touch finishes and elegant wood accents, while generous headroom and legroom across all three rows provide comfort for every occupant.
A panoramic sunroof further enhances the airy and luxurious feel of the interior.
Technology is at the heart of the driving experience, with a 12.3-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system supporting phone mirroring, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control and wireless charging.
The climate control system is managed through a digital touchscreen interface and includes automatic rear and roof-mounted air vents, as well as an air purification function.
Occupant comfort is enhanced by power-adjustable front seats equipped with heating, ventilation, memory settings and lumbar support, while an eight-speaker Sony sound system provides a premium audio experience.
Safety remains one of the vehicle’s strongest selling points. The X90 Plus comes equipped with multiple airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, Advanced Emergency Braking, Hill-Start Assist, Hill-Descent Control, an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold and a high-mounted stop lamp.
The SUV also features an array of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including a 360-degree camera with 2D and 3D viewing options, forward collision warning, parking sensors, radar monitoring and lane departure warning, all designed to improve safety and driver confidence.
Additional convenience features include smart keyless entry, push-button start, electronic gear selection, multiple drive modes, cruise control, automatic tailgate operation and advanced LED lighting systems.
Jetour Nigeria says the X90 Plus is supported by a comprehensive aftersales programme that includes warranty coverage, trained technicians and readily available spare parts, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to reliability, customer satisfaction and long-term ownership value.
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Business
Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol Price as Crude Oil Eases
Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol Price as Crude Oil Eases
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a ₦75 reduction in the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, lowering the rate from ₦1,250 to ₦1,175 per litre in a move expected to influence Nigeria’s downstream fuel market.
In a notice issued to fuel marketers, the refinery said the adjustment takes effect from midnight on June 16, 2026, and applies to all outstanding but yet-to-be-loaded gantry volumes, which will be repriced at the new rate. The company also reduced its coastal petrol price per metric tonne from ₦1,595,790 to ₦1,495,215, reflecting a broader downward review across its pricing structure.
The refinery explained that the decision was influenced by the easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which had previously driven up global energy costs and caused volatility in the international oil market. It added that improved diplomatic engagements around key global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, have helped stabilize crude oil movement and pricing.
The international oil market had experienced significant pressure in recent months following tensions between major global powers, which pushed crude prices above $120 per barrel at the peak of the crisis. However, with renewed diplomatic discussions and easing tensions, crude prices have begun to stabilize, recently trading around the $80 per barrel range, offering some relief to refining and import costs globally.
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Since crude oil is the primary raw material for petrol production, changes in global prices directly affect refined product pricing across markets, including Nigeria.
The latest price adjustment positions the Dangote refinery as one of the most competitive suppliers in Nigeria’s deregulated downstream sector. Industry data from market tracking platforms indicate that petrol is currently being sold by some marketers at around ₦1,240 per litre, depending on logistics, location, and distribution costs.
The reduction is expected to gradually influence retail pump prices nationwide, although final consumer prices will still depend on transportation costs, dealer margins, and regional supply dynamics. Regulatory oversight is provided by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which continues to monitor pricing trends and market stability in the downstream sector. Major industry players such as NNPC Limited are also expected to adjust their pricing strategies in response to shifts in the refinery’s ex-depot rates.
The latest petrol price reduction in Nigeria is expected to bring moderate relief to consumers already grappling with fluctuating fuel costs. However, analysts note that despite lower ex-depot prices, retail fuel prices may vary across states due to logistics costs and supply chain factors. If global crude oil prices remain stable or continue to decline, further downward adjustments in fuel prices may be possible in the coming weeks.
Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol Price as Crude Oil Eases
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Business
SERAP Takes NNPCL to Court Over Alleged ₦5.9bn Rebranding Expenditure
SERAP Takes NNPCL to Court Over Alleged ₦5.9bn Rebranding Expenditure
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has dragged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to court over an alleged ₦5.9 billion expenditure linked to the incorporation, transition and rebranding of the former Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) into NNPCL.
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1248/2026, seeks an order compelling NNPCL to provide a comprehensive account of how the funds were spent and whether all approvals and procurement procedures were properly followed.
According to SERAP, the disputed amount comprises about ₦2.9 billion reportedly spent on incorporation expenses from petroleum product proceeds and another ₦2.9 billion allegedly charged by the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) to crude oil revenues for the transition process.
The rights group is asking the court to direct NNPCL to release a detailed reconciliation statement showing all financial transactions related to the expenditure. SERAP is also seeking information on contractors involved in the rebranding exercise, the services they rendered, and the amounts paid to them.
In addition, SERAP wants NNPCL to disclose the identities and official positions of government officials who approved and authorized the expenditure. The organization argues that Nigerians have a constitutional right to know how public resources were utilized during the transformation of NNPC into NNPCL.
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The suit was filed by SERAP’s legal team, including Oluwakemi Agunbiade, Kehinde Oyewumi and Andrew Nwankwo. According to the organization, transparency and accountability are essential in the management of public funds, particularly in the oil and gas sector, which remains one of Nigeria’s most important sources of revenue.
SERAP maintained that the public deserves answers regarding who approved the spending, who received the funds, and whether the expenditure represented value for money. The organization further argued that the alleged failure to account for the funds raises concerns about public trust and good governance.
The lawsuit also references concerns reportedly raised by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, which questioned the size of the expenditure and reportedly called for further explanations and legislative scrutiny.
Before approaching the court, SERAP had written to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to direct anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to investigate the reported spending and identify those responsible for approving and receiving the funds.
According to SERAP, the matter goes beyond financial disclosure and touches on broader issues of accountability, transparency and responsible management of national resources. The organization contends that failure to provide details of the expenditure may be inconsistent with constitutional provisions designed to promote openness in public administration.
SERAP also cited Nigeria’s obligations under international anti-corruption frameworks, including the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which emphasize transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
The transformation of NNPC into NNPCL followed the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which restructured the national oil company into a commercially oriented limited liability company wholly owned by the Federal Government. The transition was officially unveiled in July 2022 as part of efforts to reform Nigeria’s petroleum industry and improve operational efficiency.
As of the time of filing this report, no hearing date has been fixed for the case, while NNPCL has not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the lawsuit.
SERAP Takes NNPCL to Court Over Alleged ₦5.9bn Rebranding Expenditure
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