Bitcoin in the US, Investment Trends, and Regulation: Latest Developments in the Crypto Industry

US Exchanges Account for Only 11.5% of BTC Market

Despite the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies in the US, American exchanges still hold a relatively small share of the overall trading volume. According to analysts, US-based platforms account for only 11.5% of all Bitcoin (BTC) transactions, 8.6% of Ethereum (ETH), and 12.3% of Solana (SOL).

These figures indicate that the growth potential of the crypto market in the US remains significant. Unlike traditional financial instruments, digital assets have yet to be deeply integrated into the daily lives of most Americans. Infrastructure development, regulatory changes, and increased trust in cryptocurrencies could lead to substantial growth in this sector in the coming years.

Short-Term BTC Holders Are at a Loss

Currently, the biggest losses are being incurred by short-term investors—those who have held Bitcoin for less than 155 days. Blockchain analysts report that this group of traders is experiencing financial setbacks, while long-term holders (who have owned BTC for over 155 days) remain profitable and are gradually securing their gains.

Sales from long-term investors are putting additional pressure on Bitcoin’s price, leading to market volatility. However, historical data suggests that such phases are natural for Bitcoin and often precede new growth cycles.

El Salvador Continues BTC Purchases

Meanwhile, the government of El Salvador is continuing its Bitcoin accumulation strategy. In recent days, the country’s authorities have acquired another 8 BTC, increasing their total holdings to 6,130 BTC.

President Nayib Bukele has previously stated that daily BTC purchases are part of a long-term plan to establish a digital reserve for the country. This approach highlights El Salvador’s commitment to Bitcoin as an alternative financial asset, despite global market fluctuations.

California Introduces “Bitcoin Rights” in a New Bill

Significant changes in cryptocurrency regulation are taking place in the United States. The state of California has amended its money transfer bill, introducing protections for cryptocurrency holders’ rights. The new legislation, introduced on February 20, 2025, is titled “Digital Assets.”

The bill’s author, Democrat Avelino Valencia, included provisions for self-custody (personal ownership of crypto assets without third-party involvement) and the legalization of digital assets as a means of payment.

Dennis Porter, Director of the Satoshi Action Fund, noted that if California adopts the bill, it could lead to widespread adoption of similar measures in other US states. If approved, nearly 40 million California residents will be able to freely use cryptocurrencies for private transactions without government interference.

Additionally, the bill prohibits discrimination against cryptocurrencies by government agencies and imposes restrictions on public officials. Officials will be barred from promoting or using digital assets in situations that could create a conflict of interest.

Brazil’s Central Bank Rejects Bitcoin Reserve Proposal

While some countries actively integrate cryptocurrencies into their economies, others take a more conservative stance. Recently, the Governor of Brazil’s Central Bank officially rejected a bill proposing the creation of a Bitcoin reserve. The primary argument against it is crypto volatility and the lack of sufficient protective mechanisms for the country’s economy.

Additionally, Brazil has enacted a ban on pension funds investing in cryptocurrencies. This means that local pension assets will be prohibited from including BTC and other digital assets in their portfolios. The decision has sparked criticism from crypto enthusiasts, who argue that it denies citizens access to alternative investment opportunities.

Recent events indicate that the crypto industry continues to develop, facing both support and resistance from regulators.

– The US remains an important player in the crypto market, but its exchanges still account for only a small portion of global trading volume.
– Short-term BTC investors are experiencing losses, while long-term holders continue to secure profits.
– El Salvador is expanding its Bitcoin reserves, despite market volatility.
– California is taking steps toward legalizing crypto payments and protecting users’ rights.
– Brazil, on the other hand, is adopting a strict stance, rejecting the creation of a state-backed Bitcoin reserve.

These events highlight the divergent paths of crypto market development in different countries. Despite regulatory hurdles, interest in digital assets remains strong, and their integration into the global economy is only a matter of time.