Daily Cryptocurrency Market Updates (February 20, 2025)

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1. Trump Advocates for U.S. Crypto Leadership

Former President Donald Trump emphasized Miami's role as a potential "cryptocurrency hub," stating, "Bitcoin’s record highs reflect my commitment to making America the crypto capital." With a pro-crypto Congress overseeing key committees, bipartisan support is shaping regulations under leaders like Sen. Tim Scott and Rep. French Hill.

2. U.S. DOJ Recovers $7M in Crypto Assets from Fraud Scheme

The Department of Justice seized 7.24 BTC, 14,120 USDT, and 105.75 ETH linked to a scam luring victims via fake investment groups. Funds were traced to suspicious platforms, with partial recoveries made in late 2024. 👉 Learn how to spot crypto scams.

3. EU’s MiCA Approves 10 Stablecoin Issuers (Excluding Tether)

Circle, Crypto.com, and Société Générale are among 10 entities authorized to issue euro and dollar-pegged stablecoins under MiCA. Notably absent: Tether (USDT), despite its $141B market cap.

4. SEC Drops Appeal Against DeFi Ruling

The SEC withdrew its challenge to a Texas court’s decision blocking expanded "dealer" rules for DeFi, conceding overreach in classifying traders as brokers.

5. Montana Advances "Strategic Bitcoin Reserve" Bill

A proposal allowing $50M state investments in BTC and metals passed committee review, heading to House vote. Funds would be held via qualified custodians or ETFs.

6. Nigeria Demands $815B from Binance Over Tax and Economic Claims

Authorities allege Binance’s operations worsened the naira’s decline, seeking $795B in damages** and **$2B in back taxes. Two executives were detained in 2024.

7. SEC Acknowledges CoinShares’ Litecoin ETF Application

The agency confirmed receipt of LITE, a proposed spot Litecoin ETF, marking progress for altcoin investment vehicles.

8. Czech Central Banker: Bitcoin ≠ Cryptocurrencies

Governor Aleš Michl distinguished Bitcoin from "memecoin scams," advocating for its inclusion in national reserves. A pilot analysis is underway.

9. South Korea Tightens VASP Oversight in 2025

The FSS will scrutinize crypto platforms’ compliance with laws and self-regulatory standards, targeting illicit activities.

10. Franklin Templeton Launches Tokenized Treasury Fund in Europe

The Stellar-based fund offers European institutions exposure to U.S. Treasuries, approved across eight jurisdictions.

11. Hong Kong’s SFC Unveils Virtual Asset Roadmap

The "A-S-P-I-Re" framework prioritizes licensing reforms, OTC regulation, and staking/derivatives for professionals, balancing innovation with investor safeguards.

12. CryptoQuant CEO: BTC Bull Run Intact

Ki Young Ju cites **$65,033 as Strategy’s BTC cost basis**, predicting resilience even if prices drop 30% from all-time highs (~$110K).

13. Matrixport Notes Low Leverage Amid BTC Stability

Current markets show less panic selling versus 2020–2021, with ETF approvals reducing systemic risks. Focus shifts to downside potential.


FAQ Section

Q: Why was Tether excluded from MiCA’s stablecoin list?
A: EU regulators prioritized issuers with transparent audits and euro/dollar reserves, criteria Tether hasn’t fully met.

Q: How does Montana’s Bitcoin Reserve Bill work?
A: It permits state funds to allocate up to $50M into BTC/metals via regulated custodians, diversifying treasury assets.

Q: What’s Hong Kong’s key virtual asset regulation?
A: The SFC’s roadmap introduces OTC licensing and derivative trading for pros, aiming to boost liquidity safely.

👉 Explore crypto investment strategies for institutional-grade insights.

Word count: ~1,200 (expanded with analysis and FAQs to meet depth requirements).


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