Bitcoin Crash: Why BTC Dropped Below $80k Today & What Happens Next

 

Bitcoin price chart showing crash below 80k January 2026.

The crypto market just caught a massive chill. After months of holding steady, Bitcoin (BTC) has officially broken below the critical $80,000 support level for the first time since early 2025. As of today, January 31, 2026, the digital gold is trading around $78,719.63, leaving many investors wondering if this is a "buy the dip" moment or the start of a deeper winter.
If you’re staring at your portfolio in shock, you aren't alone. Over $111 billion was wiped off the total crypto market cap in just 24 hours. Here is everything you need to know about why Bitcoin is crashing and where the price might head next.
Why is Bitcoin Falling Today?
Bitcoin's 7% drop today wasn't caused by just one thing—it was a "perfect storm" of geopolitical and economic factors:
  1. Geopolitical Tensions: Markets reacted sharply to reports of explosions at the Bandar Abbas port in Iran. In times of global uncertainty, investors often flee "risk-on" assets like Bitcoin in favor of traditional safe havens.
  2. The "Warsh" Effect: The selection of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve Chair has sent ripples through the financial world. Traders are bracing for a more "hawkish" Fed, which usually means tighter monetary policy and less liquidity for crypto.
  3. Liquidation Cascade: According to data from Coinglass, over $1.6 billion in leveraged positions were liquidated in the last 24 hours. When long positions get forced out, it creates a domino effect that pushes the price down even faster.
  4. Thin Weekend Liquidity: Price swings are always more dramatic on Saturdays when institutional trading desks are closed.
Bitcoin Price Analysis: Key Levels to Watch
Bitcoin is currently down significantly from its October 2025 all-time high of $126,080. Here’s the technical breakdown:
  • Current Price: ~$78,719.63 (CHF 60,448)
  • Immediate Support: $75,000. If BTC fails to hold this, we could see a slide toward the $68k zone.
  • Resistance to Beat: $82,500. Bitcoin needs to reclaim this level quickly to invalidate the current bearish trend.
Check real-time movements on the CoinMarketCap Bitcoin Page or CoinGecko.
Is This a "Fire Sale" or a Trap?
Despite the red candles, many long-term bulls remain unfazed. Some analysts are labeling the mid-$70k range a "fire sale" zone, noting that institutional adoption through ETFs remains a long-term catalyst. However, the Fear & Greed Index has plummeted to its lowest point in 2026, suggesting that "extreme fear" is currently driving the market.
The Bottom Line: Volatility is the price of admission for Bitcoin. Whether you’re HODLing or looking to enter, keep a close eye on the Fed's next moves and the developing situation in the Middle East.
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Pak-Qatar General Takaful IPO: Allotment, Refunds, and What’s Next?

 


The Pak-Qatar General Takaful Limited (PQGTL) IPO has officially made waves in the market, drawing massive interest from retail and institutional investors alike. With the public subscription window (January 28–29, 2026) now closed, the big question on everyone’s mind is: “When do I get my shares?”
Here is everything you need to know about the timeline and the refund process.
1. The Allotment Timeline
Historically, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) and the Central Depository Company (CDC) take about 10 to 15 days to finalize the allotment after the subscription ends.
Given the current schedule, expect the formal allotment and credit of shares to happen by the second week of February 2026. Successful applicants will see the shares reflected directly in their CDC accounts.
2. The "21x" Factor
The PQGTL IPO was oversubscribed by a staggering 21 times at a strike price of Rs. 14. While this is great news for the company, it means competition among retail investors is high. Because of this demand, a balloting process (a lucky draw) is usually conducted to decide who gets the shares.
3. What Happens If You Aren't Allotted Shares?
If your application isn't picked in the ballot, or if you are only partially allotted shares, don't worry—your money isn't lost.
  • Full Refund: If you aren't allotted any shares, you will receive a 100% refund of your subscription amount.
  • Method: Refunds are typically credited back to the same bank account you used during the application.
  • Timeline: Expect the funds to return to your account within 10 to 15 working days post-subscription.
4. How to Check Your Status
You don’t have to play the guessing game. You can track your application status through these official portals:
  • For CDC Users: Check the CDC Centralized E-IPO System (CES).
  • For PSX Users: Use the PSX e-IPO Portal.
5. Troubleshooting Delays
If mid-February rolls around and you haven't received your shares or your refund:
  1. Verify Status: Log in to your e-IPO portal to see if your application was "Successful" or "Unsuccessful."
  2. Contact the Registrar: Refer to the PQGTL Prospectus for the specific contact details of the share registrar.
  3. Escalate: If the bank or registrar is unresponsive, you can lodge a formal complaint via the PSX Investor Complaint Portal.
Final Word: The massive oversubscription of PQGTL is a strong signal of investor confidence in the Takaful sector. Whether you get allotted or get a refund, stay tuned to the market—this listing is going to be a highlight of 2026!
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Azerbaijan visit visa fee, services charges in Pakistan, January 2026 update

 


Azerbaijan has introduced a streamlined e-visa system specifically beneficial for Pakistani travelers, simplifying the process of obtaining a visa for tourism and short visits.

Types of Azerbaijan E-Visas Available

The country provides two main processing options for its electronic visit visa:

  • Standard e-Visa: Typically processed within 3 working days.
  • Urgent e-Visa: Processed much faster, usually within 3 hours, even on weekends or holidays.

Applicants receive the decision via email. If the email doesn't arrive, the status can be easily checked online at the official portal: www.evisa.gov.az/en/check-status.

Simple Application Process

To apply, Pakistani citizens should visit the official ASAN Visa portal at https://evisa.gov.az/en/. The entire procedure is straightforward and completed in three easy steps:

  1. Submit the online application form.
  2. Make the required payment.
  3. Download the approved e-Visa once issued.

This fully digital method eliminates the need for embassy visits or paper submissions for eligible travelers.

Costs for Pakistani Applicants

For a single-entry 30-day visit e-Visa:

  • Standard processing: The government fee is $20 USD, plus a $9 USD service/processing charge, totaling $29 USD (approximately Rs. 8,190, based on current exchange rates).
  • Urgent processing: The total fee rises to $50 USD (around Rs. 14,122), with approval often within 3–5 hours.

Note: Fees are non-refundable and paid securely online via credit/debit card. Exchange rates may vary, so check current rates for exact PKR amounts.

Key Validity Details

The e-Visa remains valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, allowing a maximum stay of 30 days in Azerbaijan. It is single-entry only, meaning it's suitable for one trip during that validity period.

This initiative by Azerbaijan aims to boost tourism from Pakistan by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and offering quick, convenient access. For the most up-to-date information or to start your application, head directly to the official site at evisa.gov.az. Safe travels!

Azerbaijan is a fascinating destination blending ancient history, stunning natural wonders, and ultra-modern architecture. From the vibrant capital of Baku to remote mountain villages and unique geological sites, here are some of the top tourist attractions that make it a must-visit country.

1. Baku's Old City (Icherisheher)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this walled historic core features narrow cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, caravanserais, and the iconic Maiden Tower (Qız Qalası) and Palace of the Shirvanshahs. It's a perfect mix of medieval charm contrasting with the futuristic skyline nearby.

2. Flame Towers

These three twisting skyscrapers are Baku's modern symbol, illuminated at night with dramatic flame-like LED displays. They're an architectural marvel representing Azerbaijan's "Land of Fire" heritage and offer panoramic views from the area.

2026 Baku Night City Tour Discover the Magic of Illuminated ...

3. Heydar Aliyev Center

Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this flowing, wave-like building houses a museum, exhibition halls, and cultural spaces. Its futuristic design has become one of Baku's most photographed landmarks.

4. Gobustan National Park

Another UNESCO site about an hour from Baku, famous for thousands of prehistoric petroglyphs (rock carvings) dating back 40,000 years, depicting ancient life, dances, and hunts.

5. Mud Volcanoes

Azerbaijan hosts over half the world's mud volcanoes, with bubbling craters and lunar-like landscapes near Gobustan. It's a surreal, otherworldly experience—perfect for a day trip from Baku.

6. Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)

A hillside that has been ablaze for centuries due to natural gas seeping from the ground. The eternal flames create a mesmerizing sight, especially at dusk.

7. Ateshgah Fire Temple

A historic Zoroastrian temple near Baku where natural flames once burned eternally. It attracted pilgrims from India and Persia and now serves as a museum highlighting Azerbaijan's fire-worshipping past.

8. Sheki

A charming historic town in the Caucasus foothills, home to the stunning Sheki Khan's Palace (another UNESCO site) with intricate stained-glass shebeke windows and beautiful frescoes.

9. Gabala (Qabala)

A scenic northern region ideal for nature lovers, featuring Tufandag Mountain Resort (skiing in winter, cable cars year-round), Nohur Lake, waterfalls, and amusement parks.

10. Baku Boulevard and Highland Park

Stroll along the Caspian Sea promenade for views, cafes, and parks, or head to Highland Park for sweeping city panoramas, especially at sunset.

Many top spots are easily accessible from Baku, with day trips to Gobustan, mud volcanoes, Yanar Dag, and Ateshgah being popular. Azerbaijan offers diverse experiences—history in the Old City, nature in the mountains, and modernity in the capital. With the convenient e-visa for Pakistani travelers, it's an ideal spot for your next adventure! Safe travels.

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How to Get the Google IT Support Certificate for FREE in Pakistan (2026 Guide)


 Are you looking to break into the tech industry without spending a fortune? The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is one of the most respected entry-level credentials globally, and in 2026, there are more ways than ever for Pakistanis to earn it for zero cost.

In this guide, we’ll break down who is currently hiring graduates and exactly where you can apply for a fully-funded scholarship today.
Is the Google IT Support Certificate Worth It?
Before diving into the "how," let's talk about the "why." According to program data:
  • 75% Success Rate: Three-quarters of graduates report a positive career move (new job, raise, or promotion) within 6 months.
  • Massive Scale: Over 1 million people globally have graduated from Google Career Certificates.
  • High Salaries: In the U.S., the median salary for IT support roles is $65,000, with growing opportunities for remote work in Pakistan.
Where to Get the Certificate for Free (2026 Scholarships)
If you don't want to pay the monthly Coursera fee, several organizations in Pakistan provide 100% scholarships that cover both the course and the final certificate.
1. The Tech Valley Scholarship Program
As Google’s official partner in Pakistan, Tech Valley is the primary gateway. They distribute thousands of scholarships annually to students, freelancers, and professionals.
  • Target: All residents of Pakistan.
  • Priority: Women and underserved communities often get special quotas.
2. PHEC & PITB (Punjab Residents)
If you are a student or graduate in Punjab, the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) and PITB are currently managing a massive batch of 20,000 scholarships.
  • Check Status: Visit the PHEC website to see if the latest portal for 2026 is still accepting applications.
3. Regional & Specialized Partners
How to Apply if You Miss the Scholarship Deadlines
If the scholarship portals are closed, don't worry. You can still get the certificate for free directly through Coursera:
  1. Financial Aid: Look for the small "Financial aid available" link on the Google IT Support page. Most applications from Pakistan that demonstrate genuine need are approved within 15 days.
  2. The 7-Day Blitz: Sign up for the 7-day free trial. If you are dedicated and finish the courses within one week, you can download the certificate without paying a cent.
Who Hires Google Certificate Holders?
One of the biggest perks is the Google Career Certificates Employer Consortium. Graduates get access to a job platform where over 150 national and global employers—including Deloitte, Ford, Verizon, and Walmart—specifically look for certificate holders.
The Google IT Support Certificate is a proven bridge to a better career. With the 2026 scholarship cycles currently active through Tech Valley and PHEC, there is no better time to start.
Are you applying this year? Let us know in the comments if you need help with the application process!
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Sports Merch Trends – Jerseys, Olympic Gear & Celebrity Collabs

 Top Sports Merch Trends 2026: Hockey Jerseys, Olympic Hats & NFL Collabs


Hockey Jerseys Taking Over

Boston hockey jerseys reached a five-year high in demand. Team Canada and the fictional Montreal Metros from Heated Rivalry are also trending strongly.

USA Olympics Hat & Beanie Craze

The USA Olympics hat is the top trending Team USA item. Sports beanies surged by over 165 percent in the past three months, driven by winter fashion trends.

USA Hockey Jersey & Jake Guentzel

The USA hockey jersey is the most searched Olympic merch item. Jake Guentzel is the top trending related player, boosting jersey sales and visibility.

NFL x Bad Bunny Merch Collection

Celebrity collaborations are reshaping sports fashion. NFL x Bad Bunny merch is the top trending merch search this week, while the Concho Collection NFL leads in themed releases.

FAQs

Are sports merch collections limited? Many collaborations are limited edition, increasing resale value.

Is Olympic merch worth buying early? Yes, early releases often sell out quickly.

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Enemies to Lovers – Hockey Romance & Trending Love Stories

 Enemies to Lovers Romance Trend: Hockey Romance Books & Dating Stories



Introduction

Enemies to lovers is one of the fastest-growing romance tropes online. Add hockey into the mix, and interest skyrockets. From bestselling books to real-life dating searches, this trend is dominating romance culture.

Why Enemies to Lovers Is So Popular

This trope creates emotional tension, slow-burn chemistry, and powerful character development. Readers love watching rivals transform into partners.

The novel Finding Her Edge became one of the top-trending searches, pushing interest even higher.

Hockey Romance Books Fans Love

Hockey romance books are at an all-time high. One standout title, Heated Rivalry, became the most searched hockey romance recently.

Why readers love hockey romance:

  • Competitive sports setting

  • Strong, disciplined characters

  • Emotional vulnerability behind tough exteriors

How to Find a Hockey Player Boyfriend

This surprising phrase became one of the top-searched dating queries.

Tips include

  • Attend local games and leagues

  • Join sports-focused social groups

  • Follow hockey communities online

Hockey dating is now at an all-time high as fans seek connections with athletes.

FAQs

Are hockey romance books realistic? They mix real sports culture with fictional drama.

Is enemies to lovers a healthy trope? When written well, it highlights growth, communication, and respect.

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Icy Sports – Ice Hockey & Figure Skating Explained (2026 Guide)

 Icy Sports Guide 2026: Ice Hockey Basics, Figure Skating, Ice Dance & Olympic Rosters


Introduction

Icy sports are heating up online. From beginners searching how to play ice hockey to fans comparing ice dance vs figure skating, winter sports are seeing record-breaking interest. Whether you are new to the rink or following Olympic-level hockey, this guide covers everything trending right now.

How to Ice Hockey: Beginner Basics

Ice hockey is a fast-paced team sport played on ice using skates, sticks, and a puck. Each team has six players including a goalie. The goal is simple: score more goals than the opponent.

Basic rules

  • Games have three periods

  • Body checking is allowed in men’s hockey

  • Offside and icing control gameplay flow

Essential gear

  • Helmet and mouthguard

  • Ice skates

  • Stick, gloves, pads

Hockey Goalie Warm-Up: What Pros Do

A proper hockey goalie warm-up improves reaction time and prevents injury. Most goalies focus on flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and short skating drills before a match.

Common warm-up routines include light stretching, glove-hand drills, and controlled puck shots.

What Does GP Mean in Hockey?

GP stands for Games Played. It shows how many matches a player has appeared in during a season.

What Does Corsi Mean in Hockey?

Corsi is an advanced hockey statistic measuring shot attempts including shots on goal, missed shots, and blocked shots. It is often used to evaluate puck possession and team dominance.

Figure Skating Championships Explained

Figure skating championships feature athletes competing in singles, pairs, and ice dance categories. Judges score skaters based on technical execution and artistic performance.

With major championships approaching, search interest has reached a five-year high.

Ice Dance vs Figure Skating: Key Differences

Ice dance focuses on rhythm, footwork, and partner coordination, while figure skating includes jumps and spins.

Main differences

  • No high jumps in ice dance

  • Strong emphasis on musical interpretation

  • Ice dancing pairs perform synchronized routines

USA Men’s Hockey Olympic Roster Trends

The USA men’s hockey Olympic roster is among the most searched sports topics this year. Fans are closely tracking player selections, team depth, and international competition readiness.

The term “hockey roster” also hit a five-year high, showing growing global interest.

FAQs

Is ice hockey hard to learn? It can be challenging at first, but beginners improve quickly with practice.

Is ice dance part of figure skating? Yes, ice dance is a discipline within figure skating.

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Fully Funded Italy MAECI Scholarship 2026–27 Now Open for Pakistani Students

 


Introduction

Thousands of Pakistani students dream of pursuing advanced studies abroad, yet the cost of education often poses a major hurdle. Fortunately, the Government of Italy has opened applications for the fully funded MAECI Scholarship for the 2026–27 academic year, offering a life-changing chance to study at prestigious Italian institutions with financial support that covers living costs and academic fees.

What Is the MAECI Scholarship?

The MAECI Scholarship is an initiative by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation designed to promote cultural exchange and strengthen academic ties worldwide. The program enables international students, including those from Pakistan, to pursue Master’s, PhD, and research programs at top universities across Italy with most expenses covered.

Key Benefits of the Scholarship

The MAECI Scholarship offers extensive financial support to help students focus on their studies and life in Italy without financial strain.

Funding Includes:

  • Monthly Stipend: A living allowance of around €900–€1,000 per month to help cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses.

  • Tuition Fee Coverage: Full waiver of university tuition fees at participating public institutions (though small regional or administrative fees might still apply).

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and accident coverage for the scholarship duration.

  • Duration Options: Programs typically range from three to nine months, with extension options for multi-year degrees.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

The MAECI Scholarship has specific eligibility rules depending on the level of study:

Study LevelAge LimitBasic Requirement
Master’s DegreeUsually under 28 yearsBachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline
PhD ProgramsUsually under 30 yearsMaster’s degree + acceptance letter from an Italian university
Research ProjectsUp to 40 yearsResearch proposal + academic supervision arrangement

Language: Candidates should be able to show competency in either English or Italian, depending on the program’s language of instruction.

How to Apply

The application for the MAECI Scholarship is completely online via the official Study in Italy platform. The general steps include:

  1. Create an Online Account on the Study in Italy portal.

  2. Select Your Desired Program and University from approved institutions like the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, or Politecnico di Milano.

  3. Prepare Required Documents, such as:

    • Copy of passport

    • Curriculum Vitae (recommended Europass format)

    • Academic transcripts and degree certificates

    • Motivation letter

    • Language proficiency results

    • Admission/pre-acceptance letter (for Master’s and PhD)

    • Research proposal (for PhD/research applications)

  4. Submit Your Final Application before the deadline (expected mid-June 2026).

Tips for Pakistani Applicants

  • Apply early: University pre-enrollment should be completed well before the scholarship deadline.

  • Check language requirements: Some programs may need Italian language proof, while others are offered in English.

  • Prepare strong documents: A compelling statement of purpose and relevant academic credentials can significantly improve your chances.

Top Italian Universities That Participate

Leading institutions usually included in the MAECI Scholarship program are:

  • University of Bologna

  • Sapienza University of Rome

  • Politecnico di Milano

  • University of Padua

  • Politecnico di Torino

  • University of Pavia

These universities offer a wide variety of fields such as engineering, humanities, social sciences, computer science, arts, and international relations.

Deadline and Important Dates

While the exact dates for the 2026–27 cycle will be published officially, past trends show that applications are accepted from April through May, with final deadlines typically in May or June.

Conclusion

The Italy MAECI Scholarship 2026–27 presents an exceptional chance for Pakistani students to study abroad without the heavy burden of financial costs. By providing a monthly stipend, tuition coverage, and access to world-class education, this scholarship can help ambitious learners advance their careers, experience a rich cultural environment, and gain international skills.

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Bitcoin Crash: Why BTC Dropped Below $80k Today & What Happens Next

  Bitcoin price chart showing crash below 80k January 2026. The crypto market just caught a massive chill. After months of holding steady, B...