Crypto Weekly Digest: Major Developments from April 7–14, 2025
As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the week of April 7–14, 2025, has been particularly eventful. From significant policy shifts in the United States to notable market movements and strategic corporate acquisitions, here’s a comprehensive overview of the key happenings in the crypto world this week. Crypto Weekly News (7–14 April 2025): Bitcoin Drops, Ripple’s $1.25B Deal & Trump’s Big Crypto Move
1. U.S. Department of Justice Disbands Cryptocurrency Enforcement Unit
In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the disbanding of its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET). This move aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader agenda to reduce regulatory burdens on the digital asset industry. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the DOJ will now focus on prosecuting individuals who use digital assets for serious crimes such as terrorism, human trafficking, and organized crime, rather than pursuing regulatory violations without clear evidence of intent. Crypto Weekly News (7–14 April 2025): Bitcoin Drops, Ripple’s $1.25B Deal & Trump’s Big Crypto Move
2. Ripple Acquires Hidden Road for $1.25 Billion
Ripple, a prominent cryptocurrency firm, announced its acquisition of credit network Hidden Road for $1.25 billion. This strategic move aims to integrate Ripple’s crypto operations with the services of a multi-asset prime broker, thereby enhancing Ripple’s reach in traditional finance. CEO Brad Garlinghouse highlighted the maturation of the U.S. market and the easing of restrictive SEC regulations as key factors enabling this expansion. The acquisition is pending regulatory approval and is expected to close in the coming months. Crypto Weekly News (7–14 April 2025): Bitcoin Drops, Ripple’s $1.25B Deal & Trump’s Big Crypto Move
3. Bitcoin Price Falls Below $80,000 Amid Market Fluctuations
Bitcoin’s price experienced a notable decline this week, falling below the $80,000 mark to reach approximately $78,000. This downturn is attributed to broader market fluctuations and economic uncertainties. Analysts suggest that factors such as global economic tensions and shifts in investor sentiment may have contributed to this price movement. Crypto Weekly News (7–14 April 2025): Bitcoin Drops, Ripple’s $1.25B Deal & Trump’s Big Crypto Move
4. Ethereum’s Potential Surge to $14,000 in 2025
Standard Chartered Bank released a research note indicating that Ethereum could reach $14,000 by 2025, driven by recent network upgrades and anticipated regulatory approvals. The bank highlighted Ethereum’s recent Dencun upgrade, which aims to reduce transaction fees and enhance network efficiency, as a significant factor contributing to this optimistic projection.
5. Argentina’s $LIBRA Cryptocurrency Scandal
Argentina is grappling with a major political scandal involving the $LIBRA cryptocurrency. President Javier Milei promoted the meme coin, leading to a surge in its value. However, the coin’s price subsequently plummeted, resulting in approximately $250 million in losses for investors. The incident, dubbed “Cryptogate,” has led to calls for investigations into President Milei’s involvement and has been described as the first major scandal of his presidency. Crypto Weekly News (7–14 April 2025): Bitcoin Drops, Ripple’s $1.25B Deal & Trump’s Big Crypto Move
6. Establishment of the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, aiming to position Bitcoin as a national reserve asset. The reserve will be capitalized with Bitcoin already owned by the federal government, estimated at around 200,000 BTC. Additionally, a Digital Asset Stockpile will be created to include other cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and Ripple. This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to making the U.S. a global leader in the digital asset space.
7. Ether.Fi Partners with RedStone Oracles in $500 Million Deal
Ether.Fi announced a significant partnership with RedStone Oracles, committing $500 million to enhance the security and reliability of blockchain data oracles. These oracles are crucial for transmitting data between blockchains, ensuring the smooth execution of smart contracts and inter-chain interactions. This investment underscores the importance of robust infrastructure in the evolving blockchain ecosystem.
8. Rise of Bitcoin Meme Coin ‘PUPS’ Ahead of Runes Release
The Bitcoin meme coin ‘PUPS’ has garnered significant attention in the crypto community, fueled by anticipation of the upcoming Runes release. Both projects are led by renowned Bitcoin developer Casey Rodarmor, whose reputation has bolstered investor confidence. The excitement surrounding ‘PUPS’ highlights the growing influence of community-driven projects and the integration of pop culture elements in the cryptocurrency space.
9. U.S. Regulatory Agencies Ease Crypto-Related Requirements
Several U.S. regulatory agencies have taken steps to reduce oversight on crypto-related activities. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) rescinded a prior notification requirement for supervised financial institutions engaging in crypto activities. Similarly, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) withdrew advisories related to digital asset clearing and derivative product listings. Additionally, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed to dismiss enforcement actions against major crypto entities and closed investigations into others, signaling a more lenient regulatory environment.
10. Bitcoin’s Potential to Reach $491,000 by April 2025
Analysts have suggested that Bitcoin could reach approximately $491,000 by April 2025 if it replicates its historical post-halving performance. This projection is based on Bitcoin’s 732% surge following its 2020 halving event. The increasing popularity of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and the influx of institutional investments are seen as catalysts that could drive such a significant price increase.
1. Which cryptocurrencies are considered the best investments in April 2025?
Bitcoin (BTC): Remains the market leader with a capitalization of $1.61 trillion and a price around $81,4
2. Are there any cryptocurrencies with the potential for massive growth in 2025?
Dawgz AI: Combines artificial intelligence with meme culture, aiming to offer real utility alongside viral appeal.
3. What is the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, and why is it significant?
In April 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to establish the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. This initiative aims to position Bitcoin as a national reserve asset, with the federal government holding approximately 200,000 BTC. The move underscores the administration’s commitment to integrating digital assets into the national financial strategy.
4. How has Ripple’s acquisition of Hidden Road impacted the crypto market?
Ripple’s $1.25 billion acquisition of Hidden Road, a multi-asset prime brokerage firm, marks a significant step in bridging traditional finance with blockchain technology. This move is expected to enhance Ripple’s reach in traditional finance and could influence the broader adoption of digital assets.
5. What are the latest trends in the cryptocurrency market for 2025 and beyond?
Integration of AI and Blockchain: Projects are increasingly combining artificial intelligence with blockchain to create more efficient and intelligent systems.