Crypto News Round-Up — December 2025

This week brought major developments in the cryptocurrency world, from Wall Street banks to hackers. Institutional players and regulators are taking new positions on digital assets, while security threats continue to emerge. Below is a concise roundup of the top stories shaping the crypto markets.

• JPMorgan Considers Crypto Trading Services
• North Korean Hackers Steal Record Crypto
• New “SantaStealer” Malware Targets Crypto Wallets
• Regulators Tighten Oversight of Crypto
• Crypto Exchanges Expand Global Services
• Global Crypto Adoption Accelerates

JPMorgan Considers Crypto Trading Services

JPMorgan Chase is reportedly planning to offer cryptocurrency trading for institutional clients. This marks a major shift for a bank whose CEO, Jamie Dimon, long denigrated cryptocurrencies. According to media reports, the bank is reevaluating its stance amid growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets (Axios). If confirmed, the move would signal that even Wall Street’s skeptics see business opportunities in crypto.

• Signals increasing institutional acceptance of cryptocurrencies.
• May lead other large banks to reconsider crypto services.

North Korean Hackers Steal Record Crypto

A new report finds that North Korean state-backed hackers stole an unprecedented $2.02 billion in cryptocurrency during 2025, accounting for roughly 60% of all crypto thefts worldwide (Tom's Hardware). The Chainalysis analysis highlights a single North Korean heist of $1.5 billion. This record haul far exceeds previous years’ thefts and underscores the threat posed by well-funded state actors targeting digital assets.

• Highlights how nation-state groups dominate crypto thefts globally.
• Raises calls for stronger security measures and international sanctions.

New “SantaStealer” Malware Targets Crypto Wallets

Cybersecurity researchers recently discovered a new malware dubbed “SantaStealer” that is being marketed to criminals. The malware comes with modular subscription pricing and can harvest browser credentials, payment data and private keys from cryptocurrency wallets (TechRadar). Even unsophisticated hackers can now pay for a package that steals crypto wallet information from victims’ computers.

• Demonstrates growing risk of personal crypto theft via malware.
• Warning for users to secure browser and wallet software carefully.

Regulators Tighten Oversight of Crypto

Policy makers in major markets are moving to strengthen crypto laws. In recent weeks, U.S. and European agencies have discussed new rules for stablecoins and digital asset exchanges. For example, U.S. financial regulators signaled interest in setting strict reserve requirements for stablecoins, while the EU’s new crypto law (MiCA) implementation is expected in 2026. These actions reflect growing concern over stability and fraud in the crypto market (Reuters).

• Stricter rules aim to protect investors and integrate crypto with traditional finance.
• Firms may face heavier compliance burdens as regulators act.

Crypto Exchanges Expand Global Services

Leading crypto trading platforms and financial markets are broadening their offerings. Notably, major exchanges have begun listing regulated cryptocurrency-linked products, such as new ETFs, in Europe and Asia (Bloomberg). At the same time, U.S. futures markets have seen a surge in crypto derivatives volume. These developments improve access to crypto for a wider range of investors through familiar market infrastructure.

• More regulated products lower barriers for institutional and retail investors.
• Integrating crypto into established markets boosts market depth and liquidity.

Global Crypto Adoption Accelerates

Crypto usage continues to grow worldwide, especially in emerging markets. In Latin America and Africa, consumers are increasingly using bitcoin and stablecoins for remittances and savings amid local currency pressures (AP). Meanwhile, global payment networks have announced pilots to integrate digital currencies. These trends show that cryptocurrencies are becoming more embedded in everyday financial activity, despite market volatility.

• Growing adoption indicates crypto’s value proposition in volatile economies.
• Pressure is rising on central banks and governments to respond to this shift.

Crypto Risks Reminder: Digital-asset markets are highly volatile and subject to regulatory changes. This roundup is not financial advice. Always do your own research (DYOR) and exercise caution with any crypto investments.

Bottom Line

Crypto markets remain dynamic as each week brings a mix of progress and challenges. Big banks moving into crypto will draw more mainstream money, but threats from hackers and stricter regulations increase at the same time. In this environment, investors should stay informed and prepared for volatility.