Major crypto updates: stablecoin rules, hedge funds, and fraud busts
Crypto News Round-Up — November 2025
This week in crypto saw major developments across regulation, institutional investment, and security. U.K. and U.S. officials signaled closer cooperation on stablecoin rules, while regulators fined a major exchange for compliance lapses. A new survey showed many hedge funds moving into crypto, and a top Fed official discussed stablecoins’ macro impact. Authorities also dismantled a huge crypto fraud ring. The sections below summarize these stories and their significance.
- UK and US align on stablecoin regulation
- Coinbase Europe fined €21.5M for AML failures
- Survey: Majority of hedge funds invest in crypto
- Fed governor says stablecoins could lower rates
- European authorities bust $689M crypto fraud ring
Bank of England urges US-UK stablecoin collaboration
In London, Bank of England Deputy Governor Sarah Breeden urged closer alignment between UK and U.S. stablecoin regulations (Reuters). Her comments came at a financial conference just before the BoE launches a consultation on stablecoin rules on Nov. 10. Breeden highlighted ongoing discussions with the U.S. Federal Reserve and finance ministries aimed at cross-border digital-asset cooperation. The push reflects a joint UK-US task force on digital assets formed in September 2025 (Reuters).
- Signals regulators view stablecoins as needing international coordination.
- Cross-border alignment could simplify rules for global crypto transactions.
- Shows that new stablecoin regulations are forthcoming (UK consultation is imminent).
Coinbase Europe fined €21.5M for AML lapses
The Irish central bank on Nov. 6 fined Coinbase Europe €21.5 million ($25 million) for anti-money laundering violations (Reuters). The regulator found that Coinbase Europe failed to adequately monitor transactions to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing, in breach of EU rules. The enforcement action highlights regulators’ heightened scrutiny of crypto exchanges (Reuters).
- Illustrates strong enforcement of AML regulations in the crypto industry.
- Raises compliance costs and pressure on exchanges to strengthen controls.
- Sends a warning to other crypto platforms to tighten their monitoring systems.
Survey: Majority of hedge funds now invest in crypto
A global survey by the AIMA/PwC found that 55% of hedge funds are now invested in cryptocurrency, up from 47% a year earlier (Reuters). On average, hedge funds allocate about 7% of their assets to crypto, although most keep crypto exposure under 2% of their portfolios. The report attributes the growing interest to higher crypto prices and more favorable U.S. regulatory developments. It also warned of risks: for example, an October “flash crash” caused by excessive leverage underscored crypto market volatility (Reuters).
- Shows that traditional finance players are increasingly adopting crypto.
- Growing institutional investment can boost market liquidity and legitimacy.
- Highlights ongoing risks, as leveraged trading can still trigger sharp sell-offs.
Fed governor says stablecoin growth could lower interest rates
Federal Reserve Governor Stephen Miran told a conference that widespread stablecoin adoption could put downward pressure on short-term interest rates (Reuters). He explained that by increasing the supply of loanable funds, stablecoins could lower the economy’s neutral rate, leading policymakers to keep rates lower. Miran noted that dollar-pegged stablecoins reinforce demand for U.S. dollars and Treasury bills, effectively reducing U.S. government borrowing costs. His comments suggest top regulators see crypto developments as having real economic impact (Reuters).
- Indicates central bankers recognize stablecoins’ potential macroeconomic effects.
- Highlights how digital assets could interact with traditional monetary policy.
- Sheds light on why dollar-backed stablecoins strengthen global dollar demand.
European authorities dismantle $689M crypto fraud ring
European law enforcement agencies have arrested nine suspects accused of running a massive crypto fraud and money-laundering scheme (Tom’s Hardware). The group allegedly stole about $689 million from thousands of investors through fake cryptocurrency investment platforms. The coordinated bust – spanning France, Belgium, Spain and other countries – was announced recently. The suspects now face lengthy prison terms and heavy fines (Tom’s Hardware).
- One of the largest crypto crime crackdowns to date, showing cross-border police cooperation.
- Highlights that crypto scams remain a serious threat to investors.
- May reassure the public that authorities can dismantle even very large fraud networks.
Note: Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile and unpredictable. This summary is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Always do your own research (DYOR) and consult a qualified advisor before making investment decisions.
Bottom Line
These developments underscore a broader trend: crypto is becoming more entwined with mainstream finance and regulation. Policymakers and regulators are actively shaping the rules around digital assets – from stablecoin frameworks to exchange compliance – even as institutional adoption grows. At the same time, the persistence of large-scale fraud and extreme volatility serve as cautionary reminders. Investors and participants should stay informed of evolving regulations and remain cautious in this still-maturing market.