Daily Cryptocurrency Update: Key Developments in Crypto Markets (2025)

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The cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with regulatory milestones, institutional adoption, and market trends shaping the future of digital assets. This comprehensive update covers pivotal events from early July 2025, including U.S. SEC advancements in crypto ETF frameworks, global regulatory shifts, and growing interest from traditional financial institutions.

U.S. SEC Advances Crypto ETF Framework

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has taken significant steps toward formalizing the regulatory framework for cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs). On July 1, the Division of Corporation Finance released new guidance outlining required disclosures for crypto ETF issuers. These include detailed reporting on net asset value calculations, custodial practices, service provider selection, and conflict-of-interest mitigation.

👉 Discover how the latest ETF regulations could reshape crypto investing

Notably, the SEC approved Grayscale’s amendment to convert its Digital Large Cap Fund into a spot ETF. The fund is predominantly composed of Bitcoin (~80%) and Ethereum (~11%), with smaller allocations to Solana, Cardano, and XRP. This move signals a growing acceptance of diversified digital asset products beyond single-asset ETFs.

Additionally, the SEC is reportedly collaborating with exchanges to develop universal listing standards for token-based ETFs. If implemented, qualifying tokens could bypass the lengthy 19b-4 filing process and proceed directly to S-1 registration—potentially reducing approval timelines from months to just 75 days. While specific criteria remain undisclosed, factors like market capitalization, liquidity, and trading volume are expected to play key roles.

Singapore Tightens Crypto Exchange Regulations

In a bid to combat money laundering and financial crime, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has strengthened oversight of digital asset service providers. As of June 30, only licensed operators may serve overseas clients from within Singapore. Unlicensed platforms must cease operations.

The MAS emphasized that it has raised licensing thresholds and will generally refrain from approving such applications due to high anti-money laundering (AML) risks. The regulator cited concerns over limited supervisory reach when most business activities occur outside Singapore.

This policy shift reflects a broader global trend toward stricter compliance requirements for crypto firms operating across borders.

Corporate Bitcoin Adoption Surges in 2025

Corporate treasuries are increasingly embracing Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset. In the first half of 2025 alone, public companies purchased 245,510 BTC, more than double the 118,424 BTC acquired by ETFs during the same period. This marks a 375% increase compared to H1 2024, when firms bought 51,653 BTC.

Unlike previous cycles driven by speculation, current purchases are motivated by long-term financial planning. Executives cite inflation hedging, improved cross-border liquidity, and alignment with digital finance strategies as core reasons for adoption.

Bitcoin's growing role in corporate balance sheets underscores its maturation from speculative asset to institutional-grade store of value.

Deutsche Bank Enters Crypto Custody Space

Traditional finance giants are expanding into digital assets. According to Bloomberg, Deutsche Bank AG plans to launch a digital asset custody service in 2026. The bank has partnered with Bitpanda Technology Solutions and Swiss firm Taurus SA to develop secure infrastructure for institutional clients.

This development follows earlier announcements by major banks exploring blockchain integration and reflects increasing demand for regulated custody solutions.

👉 See how financial institutions are integrating crypto into mainstream services

South Korea Reverses “Korean Bond” Ban Amid Stablecoin Demand

In response to rising demand for dollar-denominated assets, South Korea has lifted a 14-year ban on domestic institutions purchasing "Korean bonds"—onshore foreign currency bonds designed for conversion into won. Originally prohibited in 2011 due to currency mismatch risks, these instruments are now seen as vital tools for improving foreign exchange liquidity.

The reversal comes amid increased retail investment in U.S. equities and dollar stablecoins, which have weakened the won and strained foreign currency supply. By encouraging inflows of foreign capital, policymakers aim to stabilize the currency and rebalance forex markets.

Despite these efforts, analysts expect cautious uptake due to higher U.S. dollar financing costs compared to local rates.

Bitcoin Network Faces Temporary Hashrate Dip

JPMorgan reported a 3% decline in average Bitcoin hashrate in June, attributed to extreme heat disrupting mining operations. However, mining profitability reached multi-month highs, with average daily revenue per EH/s hitting $55,300—an increase of 7% from April.

Mining margins expanded by 13% month-over-month, driven by rising BTC prices and network efficiency gains. U.S.-listed miners saw their combined market cap grow by $5.3 billion (23%) in June. Companies with diversified high-performance computing operations outperformed pure-play miners, led by IREN with a 67% gain.

Ethereum Community Foundation Launches to Boost ETH Ecosystem

A new initiative aims to strengthen Ethereum’s infrastructure and long-term value proposition. The Ethereum Community Foundation (ECF), founded by core developer Zak Cole, will fund projects focused on immutable and tokenless technologies, particularly real-world asset (RWA) tokenization such as stocks, bonds, and real estate.

ECF has already secured millions of dollars worth of ETH donations. Funding decisions will be made transparently through token-based voting mechanisms. Its first project—the Ethereum Validators Association—will empower stakers to influence protocol development by staking ETH to express governance preferences.

By supporting public goods and neutral infrastructure, ECF seeks to enhance Ethereum’s resilience and adoption across traditional finance sectors.

Bitcoin’s Seasonal Trends Hint at Bullish Outlook

Historical data suggests strong upside potential for Bitcoin in July. According to Matrixport analysis, Bitcoin has risen in 7 out of the past 10 Julys, averaging a 9.1% gain. Even in down years, losses were minimal—typically in single digits—while up years saw double-digit rallies.

With positive momentum building in early July 2025, analysts project that Bitcoin could test the $116,000 resistance level in the coming weeks. Combined with increasing institutional inflows and favorable macro trends, this seasonal pattern reinforces bullish sentiment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the SEC’s new ETF guidance mean for investors?
A: The updated rules provide clearer disclosure requirements for crypto ETFs, increasing transparency and investor protection. Streamlined approval processes may also lead to faster launches of new products.

Q: Why are corporations buying more Bitcoin than ETFs?
A: Companies view Bitcoin as a long-term treasury reserve asset rather than a short-term trade. Factors like inflation hedging, global liquidity needs, and brand positioning drive this strategic shift.

Q: How might universal listing standards impact altcoin ETFs?
A: If adopted, standardized criteria could accelerate approvals for ETFs based on major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum or Solana—potentially unlocking billions in new capital flows.

Q: Is South Korea’s bond policy change a sign of wider crypto acceptance?
A: While not directly related to crypto, the move reflects growing recognition of dollar-denominated digital assets’ influence on capital flows and monetary stability.

Q: Can Bitcoin’s hashrate recover after the summer heat?
A: Yes—historically, hashrate rebounds follow temporary dips caused by environmental factors. Upgraded cooling systems and geographic diversification help mitigate future disruptions.

Q: What role does ECF play in Ethereum’s future?
A: By funding critical infrastructure and empowering validators, ECF strengthens Ethereum’s decentralization and utility—key drivers of long-term value accrual.

Figma Discloses Major Bitcoin ETF Holdings Ahead of IPO

Cloud design platform Figma revealed in its SEC IPO filing that it holds approximately $69.5 million in spot Bitcoin ETFs**. The company also received board approval to purchase an additional **$30 million worth of BTC using USDC, signaling confidence in Bitcoin as a treasury asset even among tech-first firms.

This disclosure adds to a growing list of companies integrating digital assets into their financial strategy—not just for speculation but as part of modern capital management.

👉 Learn how top firms are using crypto to strengthen their balance sheets

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