Retail vs. whales: Who actually drives the Santa rally?

Bitfury, a Bitcoin mining company established in 2011, has announced a strategic shift towards technology investment, launching a $1 billion fund focused on ethical artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency startups. This pivot marks a significant change after 14 years in the Bitcoin mining sector, reflecting the company's adaptation to evolving market dynamics and the growing importance of ethical technology in the investment landscape.

The US banking regulator has permitted banks to hold cryptocurrencies to pay network fees, a decision that could significantly enhance the integration of traditional banking with the cryptocurrency sector. This regulatory change is expected to reshape financial services and payment systems, allowing banks to engage more actively in the crypto market.

The Santa Rally, a term used to describe the stock market's upward trend during the holiday season, raises the question of whether retail investors or large 'whales' are the primary drivers of this phenomenon. Recent analyses suggest that both retail FOMO (fear of missing out) and significant capital flows from whales contribute to the December market surge in stocks and cryptocurrencies. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for investors navigating the volatile market landscape.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its latest examination priorities document for 2026, which notably does not include cryptocurrency as a focus area. This marks a departure from previous years where crypto was highlighted, raising concerns about the regulatory landscape for digital assets. The absence of crypto in the SEC's priorities may signal a shift in focus or a response to ongoing market conditions.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its examination priorities for 2026, which notably do not include cryptocurrency as a focus area. This marks a significant shift from previous years where crypto was highlighted, raising concerns among industry stakeholders about the regulatory landscape. The omission suggests a potential decrease in regulatory scrutiny for the crypto sector, which could impact investor confidence and market dynamics.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its examination priorities for 2026, which notably do not include cryptocurrency as a focus area. This marks a significant shift from previous years where crypto was highlighted, raising concerns among industry stakeholders about the regulatory landscape for digital assets. The omission suggests a potential decrease in scrutiny or oversight regarding cryptocurrencies, which could impact investor confidence and market dynamics.

Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) is reportedly preparing to classify certain cryptocurrencies as financial products, which would subject them to stricter regulations and tax treatments. This significant shift in policy aims to provide a clearer legal framework for digital assets in Japan, reflecting the growing importance of cryptocurrencies in the financial landscape. The proposed changes are expected to enhance consumer protection and improve the overall integrity of the crypto market in the country.

The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) has released a series of reports revealing extensive criminal activities linked to cryptocurrency. These reports detail operations involving human trafficking, drug cartels, Russian criminal gangs, and crypto-to-cash storefronts operating globally. The findings highlight the darker side of the cryptocurrency market and its potential misuse for illegal activities.