Crypto News Round-Up — January 2026

Cryptocurrency markets remain dynamic as 2026 begins, with regulators and major companies announcing new measures. Today’s headlines cover everything from mining regulations to payment innovations and security incidents. Here are the key developments from the last 24 hours.

• Russia targets unlicensed crypto miners
• UK requires risk warnings on crypto ads
• Mastercard expands crypto settlement pilot
• Singapore’s CoinEdge exchange hit by $20M hack
• ARK Invest files first U.S. Ethereum ETF
• Starbucks mobile app adds Bitcoin & Ethereum payments
• Iran issues new licenses for crypto mining

Russia targets unlicensed crypto miners

In a drive to regulate the industry, Russia’s government drafted amendments that would outlaw unregistered cryptocurrency mining. The proposal explicitly penalizes “unlawful” crypto mining and operating unlicensed mining equipment. Under the draft law, offenders could face fines up to 2.5 million rubles ($31,000), forced labor or up to five years in prison (Tom’s Hardware).

Until now, Russia had allowed registered miners to operate under reporting requirements. Officials say the new rules aim to raise tax revenue and curb illegal energy consumption amid economic strains. Experts warn the crackdown will squeeze small miners and concentrate operations in state-approved facilities (Tom’s Hardware).

Why it matters

• It signals the Kremlin’s intent to tightly control and tax crypto mining operations (Tom’s Hardware).
• Registered miners face stricter compliance, while unlicensed operators risk severe penalties.
• The move could drive some mining elsewhere, changing the balance of global mining power.

UK requires risk warnings on crypto ads

The UK Financial Conduct Authority announced that from January 2026 all cryptocurrency advertisements must carry clear risk warnings. Ads for exchanges, wallets or tokens will now have to state that crypto investing is highly volatile and investors can lose money, regulators said (BBC).

The guideline is designed to protect retail buyers from misleading marketing. In practice, crypto ads on social media and other platforms must prominently display a disclaimer like “Your capital is at risk.” The rule aligns the UK with recent EU measures and aims to curb hype and scams in the booming crypto ad space (BBC).

Why it matters

• Ensures consumers see upfront that crypto investments carry risk.
• Brings the UK in line with EU rules on transparent crypto marketing.
• May force crypto firms to tone down aggressive promotions aimed at amateurs.

Mastercard expands crypto settlement pilot

Mastercard has expanded a payment pilot allowing banks to settle transactions using a dollar-backed stablecoin (Bloomberg). Under the program, banks can hold and transfer a stablecoin on a blockchain to settle transactions instantly, instead of using traditional multi-day settlement. The pilot, initially launched in select regions, now includes major institutions like Citigroup working to speed up cross-border payments (Bloomberg).

The effort is part of Mastercard’s broader strategy to integrate crypto technology into everyday finance. By enabling stablecoin settlement through regulated partners, Mastercard hopes to cut transaction times and costs for banks. Industry analysts say this move could open the door for digital currencies to play a larger role in global payments (Bloomberg).

Why it matters

• A major card network embracing crypto settlement may fast-track adoption by banks and merchants.
• Stablecoin clearing could significantly lower the cost and time of international transfers (Bloomberg).
• Sets a precedent for blockchain-based settlement in mainstream finance.

Singapore’s CoinEdge exchange hit by $20M hack

According to Cointelegraph, crypto exchange CoinEdge was breached this week, with hackers exploiting a flaw in its hot wallet. The attackers stole roughly $20 million in various cryptocurrencies before some funds were traced through mixing services. CoinEdge has halted withdrawals and is working with law enforcement to investigate the theft (Cointelegraph).

This incident highlights persistent security risks in the sector. Experts note that even established exchanges remain targets for sophisticated cyberattacks, especially during market turbulence. CoinEdge has promised to reimburse affected users, but the breach underscores the need for stronger security practices on trading platforms.

Why it matters

• Shows that even regulated exchanges are vulnerable to hacks and thefts.
• Reminds users to keep significant crypto assets off exchanges when possible.
• May lead regulators to demand tighter security standards for trading platforms.

ARK Invest files first U.S. Ethereum ETF

ARK Invest, led by Cathie Wood, filed paperwork with the U.S. SEC to launch a spot Ethereum exchange-traded fund (Bloomberg). If approved, the fund would hold Ether reserves directly, giving investors regulated exposure to ETH. ARK’s proposal points to growing institutional interest in Ethereum following the earlier success of Bitcoin ETFs.“The case for Ethereum ETFs is compelling given its market size and liquidity,” ARK said (Bloomberg).

Analysts say an Ethereum ETF could channel billions of dollars into the crypto space. It would complement existing Bitcoin funds and allow traditional portfolios to diversify into Ether more easily. The filing indicates firms believe U.S. regulators may now accept funds for major cryptocurrencies beyond bitcoin (Bloomberg).

Why it matters

• Would make Ether accessible to mainstream investors through a regulated fund.
• Could draw institutional capital into Ethereum, potentially boosting its price and liquidity (Bloomberg).
• Success could encourage more cryptocurrency ETFs and products in 2026.

Starbucks mobile app adds Bitcoin & Ethereum payments

Starbucks this week enabled Bitcoin and Ethereum payments in its U.S. and U.K. stores via the Starbucks mobile app (Reuters). Customers can now fund their Starbucks cards by converting Bitcoin or Ether through a partnership with crypto platform Bakkt. At checkout, the app debits an equivalent dollar amount from a user’s crypto wallet.

A company spokesperson said customers responded positively to the rollout, and Starbucks will watch demand before expanding further. The move by a major consumer brand highlights growing acceptance of crypto for everyday purchases. Other retailers are reportedly monitoring Starbucks to see if crypto payments become popular enough to merit their own pilots (Reuters).

Why it matters

• Legitimizes crypto as a form of payment for everyday consumers (Reuters).
• Gives Bitcoin and Ethereum holders new ways to spend digital coins in daily life.
• May push other merchants to adopt crypto payments to stay competitive.

Iran issues new licenses for crypto mining

Iran announced it will allow cryptocurrency mining companies to apply for official permits after a previous nationwide ban due to electricity shortages (Reuters). Approved mining farms that meet technical and energy criteria can resume operations, but must pay a fee reflecting the high cost of electricity. Unlicensed miners will remain barred to prevent strain on the power grid.

The decision recognizes that Iran hosts one of the world’s largest mining industries. Officials say regulating the sector will ensure miners contribute to government revenue and abide by energy usage limits. By bringing miners into compliance, Iran aims to benefit from crypto revenues while protecting its electricity supply (Reuters).

Why it matters

• Brings many of Iran’s cryptocurrency miners under official oversight and taxation.
• Balances the need for electricity stability with potential government revenue from mining.
• Reduces the uncertainty felt by miners from sudden shutdowns and bans (Reuters).

Note: Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile and carry risk. This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should do their own research and consider seeking advice from a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Bottom Line

These stories illustrate a familiar tension in crypto: innovation and adoption grow alongside stricter oversight and security challenges. Established companies and financial firms continue building crypto into payment systems and investment products, even as governments tighten regulations and law enforcement probes scams. The net effect is a maturing market, but one where investors should proceed with caution and stay informed given the still-high volatility.