Lawmakers Urge SEC to Allow Bitcoin in 401(k) Plans North Korean Hackers Target Crypto Sector with BeaverTail Malware Family Offices Boost Crypto Allocations Amid High Inflation Coinbase, Base Argue Layer-2 Sequencers Are Infrastructure, Not Exchanges

Bitcoin's latest price was $, in the last 24 hours. The cryptocurrency market has seen significant developments recently, with various stakeholders pushing for regulatory changes and technological advancements. U.S. lawmakers are urging the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to implement an executive order signed by Trump, which would allow 401(k) retirement funds to invest in Bitcoin. This move aims to reshape retirement investment strategies by enabling Americans to include cryptocurrencies in their retirement portfolios. The push is led by lawmakers such as Chairman French Hill and Representatives Ann Wagner and Warren Davidson, who have a background in advocating for financial innovation. Their correspondence with SEC Chairman Paul Atkins underscores the urgency of this matter. The anticipated revision in rules is expected to funnel considerable capital inflows into cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, potentially altering the asset allocation landscape within 401(k)s across the U.S. Congressman Warren Davidson has publicly expressed his view that increased access to "sound money" through retirement planning is overdue, suggesting that such regulatory changes could expand the reach of cryptocurrencies in traditional financial instruments.

North Korean hackers have expanded their cyberattacks on the cryptocurrency sector, deploying a sophisticated malware known as BeaverTail through fake job offers. This new campaign targets non-developers, marking a shift in tactics for the hackers, who previously focused on tech-savvy professionals. The malware aims to steal login credentials and cryptocurrency wallet information from unsuspecting victims. Experts warn that the malware is harder to detect due to its use of disguised files and password-protected archives. The latest wave of attacks involves North Korean threat actors using fake job offers to lure individuals into running malicious software. These fake offers often instruct potential candidates to record video assessments to fix non-existent issues with their microphone or camera. When the victim follows the instructions, malware is deployed on their device. This method, known as ClickFix social engineering, is designed to trick victims into executing malware without suspecting anything is wrong. Once the malware is installed, it quietly runs in the background, stealing sensitive data like login credentials and cryptocurrency wallet information. Experts warn that non-technical individuals are particularly vulnerable to this type of attack since they may not recognize the risks associated with downloading unverified software. Cybersecurity experts stress the importance of caution when receiving unsolicited job offers or instructions to run software from untrusted sources. Users are advised to avoid downloading software from unverified platforms, especially those that request to access system resources or ask for personal information. The crypto industry continues to be a prime target for North Korean hackers, with their persistence and adaptability posing a growing risk. As the attackers refine their tactics, vigilance remains crucial in protecting sensitive data from cybercriminals.

Family offices that manage the wealth of the world’s richest families are reshaping their portfolios as inflation remains high in major economies. Many are cutting back on private equity while adding more to public markets and digital assets. According to a Goldman Sachs survey released this year, single-family offices allocated 31% of their portfolios to public equities in 2025, up from 28% in 2023. Other significant areas include cash reserves, fixed income, private real estate, infrastructure, and hedge funds. Wealth managers point out that investors now view cryptocurrencies as a necessary part of portfolios. Many are also adopting tools designed to improve performance in digital assets. New generations are driving this interest. Many second- and third-generation individuals of family offices are starting to learn about and participate in virtual currencies. Goldman Sachs data shows that 33% of family offices now hold cryptocurrency, up from 26% two years ago. Still, 44% have no interest in the sector. About 70% of participants manage assets worth over $1 billion, with 47% based in the U.S. and the rest split between Asia and EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa). Supportive policies have played a role. In the United States, the GENIUS Act, approved under President Donald Trump, has spurred confidence in digital markets. In Hong Kong, stablecoin legislation also contributed to a surge in demand for crypto-related products. Traditional Finance Gears Up for Bitcoin Push In August 2025, Bitcoin’s surge pushed prices above $124,000. Speaking with Anthony Pompliano, Viser predicted, "between now and the end of the year, the allocations for Bitcoin from the traditional finance world are going to be increased. That is going to happen." He sees 2026 as a big year for institutional adoption. A Coinbase–EY Parthenon survey from March 2025 showed 83% of institutional investors intend to raise crypto exposure in 2026. Bitwise forecasted up to $120 billion flowing into Bitcoin this year and $300 billion in 2026. BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes warned against chasing quick profits, saying comparisons with gold or stocks are not accurate. He explained that "Deflate things by Bitcoin. You can’t even see them on the chart." He added that even after adjusting for inflation, Bitcoin remains the strongest asset. Hayes maintains a bullish stance, reiterating his earlier forecast that Bitcoin could hit $250,000 by the end of 2025. His view, alongside survey data and fresh inflows, suggests that crypto is no longer a side bet for ultra-rich families but a growing pillar of wealth strategies.

Coinbase chief legal officer Paul Grewal and Base founder Jesse Pollak argued that Layer-2 (L2) sequencers constitute infrastructure rather than exchanges. Their statements contradict the current regulatory stance, considering SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has previously warned that centralized matching engines may face exchange registration requirements. Grewal compared Base’s sequencer to Amazon Web Services in a Sept. 22 post, stating that layer-2 blockchains operate as general-purpose infrastructure processing code deterministically. He argued that L2s “batch all transactions while deferring any formal order interaction/matching rules to an app’s smart contracts and frontend.” Pollak provided technical details supporting the infrastructure argument, explaining that Base’s sequencer collects user transactions, orders them first-in/first-out, and batches them to Ethereum for settlement. He emphasized that sequencers determine transaction processing order and batching, but do not match orders or set prices. This distinction is crucial as it positions L2 sequencers as infrastructure providers rather than exchanges, potentially avoiding stringent regulatory requirements. The debate highlights the evolving landscape of digital asset regulation and the need for clear guidelines to foster innovation while ensuring market integrity.