Crypto News Round-Up — September 2025

In a series of developments over the past day, regulators, exchanges, and market participants worldwide announced key changes affecting cryptocurrency markets and technology. From new regulatory frameworks to major market moves and security incidents, this round-up highlights the top stories shaping the industry over the last 24 hours. Below is a quick guide to the main topics covered.

• UK, US announce new crypto regulatory taskforce
• Visa expands stablecoin payment support
• Crypto losses hit $2.5B in first half of 2025
• Starbucks tests blockchain-based rewards program
• Bitcoin tops $100K as ETF speculation grows
• IBM to launch blockchain trade finance network
• ECB advances digital euro pilot initiatives

UK, US announce new crypto regulatory taskforce

Leaders of the United Kingdom and United States announced the formation of a joint “Transatlantic Taskforce for Markets of the Future” aimed at reducing regulatory barriers for businesses accessing capital markets and improving coordination on cryptocurrency rules (Reuters). Approved during a high-level visit, the taskforce – led by finance ministry officials and regulators from both countries – will issue a report within 180 days outlining immediate actions and longer-term measures. Officials said the initiative signals an effort by the UK to align its crypto regulations more closely with U.S. policy post-Brexit, rather than adopting the European Union’s approach of drafting entirely new rules (Reuters).

Why it matters:

• Could harmonize U.S. and UK crypto rules, reducing compliance complexity for firms active in both markets.
• Shows major economies working together on crypto oversight, which may improve global regulatory clarity and investor confidence (Reuters).

Visa expands stablecoin payment support

In a push to integrate digital currencies into mainstream payments, credit card network Visa announced plans to support transactions using U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoins on its network. According to Bloomberg, Visa will enable merchants to accept certain stablecoins – minted on blockchains like Ethereum – with settlement handled through the normal Visa rails to fiat currency. The company is reportedly targeting a rollout by early 2026, after conducting pilot programs with crypto partners. Visa’s CEO said the move is designed to meet growing demand from financial institutions and consumers for crypto payment options while staying within existing regulations (Bloomberg).

Why it matters:

• Signals wider acceptance of cryptocurrency in everyday payments as major networks adopt stablecoin support.
• May boost demand for regulated stablecoins and spur further clarification from regulators on how to license and oversee crypto payment systems.

Crypto losses hit $2.5B in first half of 2025

A recent industry analysis found that hackers and fraudsters stole approximately $2.5 billion worth of cryptocurrency in the first half of 2025 (CoinDesk). The CertiK security firm report highlights a sharp increase in losses compared to last year, driven by a string of high-profile exploits. While most of the value was siphoned off through decentralized finance (DeFi) hacks, phishing schemes and exit scams also contributed heavily. The report notes that although some of the stolen funds have been recovered or returned, the volume of attacks underlines ongoing vulnerabilities in blockchain applications (CoinDesk).

Why it matters:

• Highlights that security remains a critical—and costly—challenge for crypto platforms and investors (CoinDesk).
• Increases pressure on DeFi protocols and custodians to enhance safeguards, insurance and auditing to protect user funds.

Starbucks tests blockchain-based rewards program

Consumer company Starbucks launched a pilot loyalty program that leverages blockchain technology to distribute digital rewards (TechCrunch). Under the new system, customers earn tokenized “Stamps” on a blockchain wallet for each purchase of the company’s signature coffee. These stamps can then be redeemed for special offers, traded among users, or used as collectibles. TechCrunch reports that the trial, conducted in selected cities, aims to link offline purchases with on-chain rewards – a move Starbucks says could increase engagement by combining its existing rewards scheme with crypto-style incentives.

Why it matters:

• Represents one of the largest mainstream retail trials of cryptocurrency-style rewards (TechCrunch).
• If successful, could normalize blockchain use in everyday consumer transactions and encourage other brands to explore token-based loyalty programs.

Bitcoin tops $100K as ETF speculation grows

In market action, bitcoin vaulted past its previous all-time high to trade above $100,000, rising more than 10% in 24 hours (Bloomberg). Investors attributed the surge to optimism over impending approvals of spot cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S. Bloomberg reports that multiple asset managers have pending filings with regulators to list spots Bitcoin and Ether ETFs on major exchanges. Other major cryptocurrencies also rallied on the news: for example, ether climbed 8% on expectations of broader fund availability. The price jump reflects growing institutional demand as traditional financial firms prepare to enter the market via these new investment products.

Why it matters:

• Record price levels illustrate rising mainstream interest and the potential for new investment flows into crypto.
• ETF approvals could dramatically expand the investor base and liquidity of crypto markets – but may also increase volatility as trading volumes spike.

IBM to launch blockchain trade finance network

Technology firm IBM announced plans to unveil a blockchain-based platform for trade finance, linking major banks and global suppliers (CoinTelegraph). The new network, built on Hyperledger fabric technology, will digitize letters of credit and shipping documents, allowing them to be settled via stablecoins or central bank digital currencies. CoinTelegraph reports that multiple international banks have already signed on for pilot testing. IBM says the platform intends to reduce processing times by up to 20% and to provide greater transparency across supply chains.

Why it matters:

• Encourages the use of cryptocurrency and blockchain in traditional finance by streamlining international payments (CoinTelegraph).
• Could significantly cut paperwork and fraud risk in global trade, demonstrating a strong real-world use case for digital assets.

ECB advances digital euro pilot initiatives

In regulatory news, the European Central Bank (ECB) released an update on its digital euro project (Bloomberg). The report outlines an expanded pilot program focusing on both domestic and cross-border use cases. Notably, the ECB said it will begin testing cross-border euro payments using a digital form of the currency between member states, with technical prototypes to launch in 2026. The report also reaffirms a rollout timeline of the late 2020s. According to the ECB, these trials will be coordinated with national central banks and regulators to ensure consumer protection, privacy safeguards and anti-money laundering checks are in place for the new digital currency.

Why it matters:

• Shows that major central banks continue pressing ahead with retail digital currencies to modernize payments (Bloomberg).
• Cross-border testing suggests Europe aims to keep pace with other digital currency initiatives (e.g. China’s digital yuan) and to support seamless transactions across the Eurozone.

Note: Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile and speculative. Prices and regulatory environments can change rapidly. Readers should always do their own research and consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions in digital assets.

Bottom Line

The past 24 hours have brought important news across the crypto industry – from international policy coordination and corporate initiatives to market rallies and security reports. These developments underscore how quickly the landscape can shift. As regulators and institutions continue to grapple with cryptocurrencies, and as markets respond with sharp price moves, the usual cautions apply. Crypto assets remain risky and unpredictable, so investors and users should stay informed and exercise caution.