Key Takeaways

• On 19 December 2025, institutional buying of Bitcoin exceeded new supply for the first time in six weeks, highlighting increased mainstream participation.
• Institutional investors purchased more Bitcoin than was newly mined, marking a significant milestone in adoption trends.
• BlackRock launched a tokenized treasury fund on BNB Chain, integrating traditional finance with blockchain technology.
• The tokenized gold market surpassed $4.2 billion in valuation, reflecting growing interest in blockchain-based commodity investments.
• BitGo obtained trust bank charter approval from regulators, strengthening its position in crypto custody.

Introduction

On 19 December 2025, institutional investors acquired more Bitcoin than was newly mined for the first time in six weeks. This signals a shift in mainstream crypto adoption. This crypto market press review also examines BitGo’s approval as a trust bank, along with developments in tokenized assets and regulated crypto banking that are transforming the Web3 landscape for newcomers.

Top Story

Bitcoin ETFs recorded $1.2 billion in net inflows on 18 December 2025, the highest single-day total since their January launch. BlackRock’s IBIT led with $580 million in new investments, while Fidelity’s FBTC added $310 million, according to data from Bloomberg Intelligence.

Bitcoin reached $98,450, approaching its all-time high as institutional adoption accelerated. Market analysts attributed the momentum to increased allocations from pension funds and endowments seeking inflation protection ahead of expected Federal Reserve policy changes.

This influx marks a notable shift in institutional sentiment since October 2025, when net outflows drew attention. Total Bitcoin ETF assets under management now exceed $75 billion across all U.S.-listed spot products.

Also Today

Regulatory Developments

SEC Approves Ethereum Options ETFs

The Securities and Exchange Commission approved the first Ethereum options ETFs for U.S. markets, expanding the range of institutional crypto products. Applications from ProShares, VanEck, and Bitwise were approved, with trading expected to begin in mid-January 2026.

SEC Chair Gary Gensler stated these products provide risk management tools while maintaining investor protections. The decision follows months of deliberation and the successful implementation of similar Bitcoin-based offerings.

Industry leaders welcomed the move. Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley stated that the approval demonstrates the SEC’s evolving approach to digital asset securities and creates new opportunities for sophisticated investors.

UK Finalizes Crypto Regulatory Framework

The United Kingdom has published its final comprehensive cryptocurrency regulatory framework, providing clear guidelines for digital asset businesses. Developed by HM Treasury and the Financial Conduct Authority, the framework will take effect on 1 February 2026.

The rules establish licensing requirements for exchanges, custodians, and stablecoin issuers, alongside consumer protection and reserve standards. UK financial firms now have greater regulatory certainty for digital asset integration.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized that the framework aims to position the UK as a global hub for responsible digital asset innovation while upholding high standards for stability and consumer protection.

Institutional Infrastructure

Goldman Sachs Launches Crypto Prime Brokerage

Goldman Sachs launched its cryptocurrency prime brokerage service for institutional clients, providing custody, trading, and settlement for digital assets. The platform currently supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and select stablecoins, with plans to expand in 2026.

The bank’s digital asset division spent over two years developing infrastructure for institutional-grade service. Mary Smith, Global Head of Digital Assets, highlighted that the offering meets institutional investors’ requirements for security, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Industry observers noted that this launch signals further Wall Street involvement in cryptocurrencies. JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley are reportedly preparing similar services in response to client demand.

El Salvador Expands Bitcoin Treasury Strategy

El Salvador announced an expansion of its Bitcoin treasury strategy and will acquire an additional 250 BTC monthly throughout 2026. This follows the country’s 2021 adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender, with existing holdings reportedly generating returns above 300% since acquisition.

Finance Minister María Luisa Hayem stated that the expanded strategy will be funded through budget allocations and a new sovereign wealth fund. The government also plans “Bitcoin Bonds 2.0”, a sovereign debt instrument denominated in BTC and intended for international investors. President Nayib Bukele commented that these initiatives aim to strengthen financial sovereignty and benefit from Bitcoin’s growth.

What to Watch

• MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin Conference on 10–11 January 2026 will feature discussions on corporate treasury strategies and institutional Bitcoin adoption, with CEO Michael Saylor and industry leaders.
• The European Central Bank digital euro pilot program results on 15 January 2026 will present findings from year-long testing with commercial banks and payment providers.
• Genesis Global Trading bankruptcy resolution hearing on 17 January 2026 will address the final distribution plan for creditors.
• Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) fee structure adjustment on 1 February 2026 will implement announced changes to management fees, potentially influencing allocation strategies.

Conclusion

Institutional investors are increasingly influential in the crypto market, as demonstrated by record Bitcoin ETF inflows and major regulatory updates. Developments in Ethereum ETFs, UK policy, and Wall Street infrastructure are encouraging continued mainstream adoption. In the coming weeks, industry events and regulatory milestones will reveal how these changes influence crypto adoption and investor confidence.