On December 25, 2025, Trust Wallet confirmed that version 2.68 of its Chrome browser extension had been compromised, exposing users' seed phrases and leading to about $7M in crypto losses. The non-custodial wallet provider has started a compensation program, asking affected users to submit detailed claims so funds can be reimbursed. The incident, which impacted assets across Bitcoin, Solana, and EVM-compatible networks, has renewed concerns over the security of browser-based crypto tools.

The People's Bank of China plans to allow commercial banks to pay interest on digital yuan (e-CNY) wallet balances starting January 2026, marking a shift from a pure "digital cash" model toward a deposit-like framework. The updated CBDC design adds value storage and cross-border payment features, which could enhance domestic adoption and position the digital yuan as a more versatile instrument in international finance. Analysts note that these interest-bearing wallets may compete with traditional bank deposits while still requiring strong public trust and cybersecurity safeguards.

South Korea plans to extend its Travel Rule to cryptocurrency transfers below 1 million won to deter smurfing and tighten anti-money laundering controls. A Korea FIU task force is reviewing updates to the Special Act, including tools such as account suspension and broader professional obligations. The initiative seeks closer alignment with FATF standards while reinforcing oversight of virtual asset service providers.

The Moscow Exchange and St. Petersburg Exchange say they are ready to begin regulated cryptocurrency trading once the Bank of Russia finalizes its framework, expected by mid-2026. Under the experimental regime, access targets highly qualified investors, including individuals holding over 100 million rubles in securities and deposits or earning more than 50 million rubles annually.

AI-enhanced phishing now produces tailored messages, look‑alike sites, and synthetic voice or video lures that are harder to detect. This overview outlines five tactics attackers use and offers practical safeguards such as verification, URL inspection, and basic security tools. With awareness and routine checks, users can reduce exposure to these evolving threats.

Token swaps let users exchange crypto assets on decentralized platforms using smart contracts and liquidity pools. They underpin DeFi activities including lending, staking, yield farming, and governance while giving beginners wallet‑based control without intermediaries. Swaps provide instant access across tokens, keeping liquidity flowing and making participation permissionless.

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority has published an official whitelist of 29 licensed crypto exchanges and platforms operating in the country, alongside stricter rules for digital asset derivatives. Under Regulation No. 23/2025, exchanges must avoid unapproved assets, use segregated margin mechanisms and require users to pass a knowledge test before trading derivatives, aiming to improve transparency and investor protection. The new framework is designed to give compliant platforms a competitive edge while supporting a more standardized and secure crypto market.

Hong Kong's Insurance Authority is assessing a proposal to permit insurers to hold cryptocurrencies and invest in infrastructure while applying a 100% capital charge. The review forms part of an overhaul of the risk‑based capital framework, with industry feedback under consideration and a public consultation expected. The high charge is intended to enable diversification while tightly containing risk.

In 2025, adoption of artificial intelligence has been linked to approximately 54,695 job cuts across the United States, with major technology companies driving much of the reduction. U.S. employers reported 71,321 layoffs in November alone and more than 1.17 million year-to-date, while firms such as Amazon and Microsoft have cited AI and broader restructuring as key factors in reshaping their workforces.