Surface articles and actual actions are often opposite. While Citibank still claims to be optimistic, just look at those quietly lowered target prices to see what’s really behind it.

Let the data speak. Circle’s stock price has now fallen to $83.6, but the target price still stands at $243, nearly $200 apart. This isn’t a matter of faith, but a way for institutions to leave themselves an escape route. Similar situations also appear in other crypto-related stocks: Bullish’s target price was lowered by 13%, MicroStrategy more drastically cut its target price by 33%. The rating remains "Buy," but the numbers are already lying.

Where is the problem? Citibank specifically emphasized "increased token volatility" in its report. It sounds like a neutral statement, but it’s actually a warning about risks. This kind of wording usually indicates that a larger correction may be on the way.

Many people don’t realize a fact: institutional reports are not helping you get ahead. When "positive outlook" and "price cuts" appear together, they are actually hedging risks. Those who chase after good news often become part of the hedging chain.

How to respond? In the short term, don’t chase stocks mentioned by institutions, because the good news has already been priced in. Also, keep an eye on the actual reserve risks of stablecoins like USDC—these details are often overlooked. The most practical advice is to maintain enough cash positions and wait for the market to truly price in institutional expectations.

In plain terms, the real signals are not in the phrase "we remain optimistic," but in the few percentage points of target price reductions.