Crypto Santas and Grinches of 2024

- In 2024, who were the key individuals and events that influenced the cryptocurrency market? - Impact of Trump's Bitcoin reserve policy announcement and security issues with the Dark Angels organization [Unblock Media] The year 2024 was a critical one for the cryptocurrency industry. This article explores the various events that influenced the cryptocurrency market and provides an outlook for 2025. Firstly, some of the key positive influencers in the industry included Donald Trump, Nayib Bukele, Hester Peirce, Brian Armstrong, Vitalik Buterin, and Cynthia Lummis. These individuals significantly contributed to the acceptance and development of cryptocurrencies from their respective positions. Notably, Trump announced a Bitcoin reserve policy aimed at catalyzing financial innovation, signaling major changes in the cryptocurrency industry. Nayib Bukele continued his efforts to maintain Bitcoin as legal tender in El Salvador and expanded its use, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector but also increasing economic uncertainty due to conflicts with the IMF. Hester Peirce advocated for regulatory reforms within the SEC to encourage the growth of the cryptocurrency industry, while Brian Armstrong stood steadfastly as the CEO of Coinbase through various legal challenges, supporting the sector. However, there were also individuals and groups that negatively influenced the cryptocurrency market. In 2024, the SEC intensified regulations on cryptocurrency firms, leading some American startups to relocate overseas to places like Singapore or Hong Kong. The UK’s FCA also appeared to inhibit innovation in the cryptocurrency industry. Additionally, there were individuals using meme coin projects endorsed by celebrities for fraudulent activities and cybercrime groups like the Dark Angels. These entities spurred improvements in the security systems of cryptocurrency exchanges but overall diminished market trust. Such factors increased uncertainties, posing barriers to the growth of the cryptocurrency market. The year 2025 is expected to bring even more dynamic changes to the cryptocurrency market. Although the tightening of regulations may prompt short-term relocations of businesses and instabilities, in the long run, it could enhance market transparency and trustworthiness. The need for global collaboration to counter sophisticated cybercrime organizations like the Lazarus Group is also anticipated to grow, positively impacting the security aspect of cryptocurrencies. In conclusion, 2024 was a year marked by intense conflicts between those striving to advance the cryptocurrency industry and those impeding it. Looking ahead to 2025, there is hope for further institutional acceptance and innovative progress. Close monitoring of the evolving international landscape and ongoing technological advancements in cryptocurrency will be essential.