Bitcoin Mining Faces Challenges as AI Emerges and Regulations Tighten Globally

Bitcoin Mining Faces Challenges as AI Emerges and Regulations Tighten Globally

Autor: Mining Provider Editorial Staff

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Kategorie: News

Zusammenfassung: The Bitcoin mining sector is facing unprecedented challenges due to rising costs and decreased fees, prompting miners to adapt their strategies. Meanwhile, Malaysia intensifies its crackdown on illegal mining operations that have caused significant economic losses.

Bitcoin Mining at the Limit: AI Takes Over the Racks

The Bitcoin mining sector is undergoing significant changes as high costs, decreased fees, and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) compel miners to rethink their strategies. According to the CoinShares Bitcoin Mining Report Q4 2025, the sector has reached a turning point, with production costs hitting an all-time high and the hash price plummeting.

As of Q2 2025, the average cash cost for mining one BTC by public miners rose to approximately $74,600, while total costs climbed to $137,800. Transaction fees, which once provided a buffer for miner revenues, fell below 1% of block rewards in May and June, marking the weakest amount since the 2024 halving. Despite shrinking margins, the Bitcoin network continued to grow, surpassing 1 Zetta Hash/s for the first time in August.

"The superior economics of AI, hyperscaler deal flows, and rising costs of industrial mining are driving the industry into a permanent transformation," stated the report.

In summary, the Bitcoin mining landscape is shifting dramatically, with miners facing unprecedented challenges and the need to adapt to new economic realities.

China Reaffirms Crypto Ban and Targets Stablecoins

On November 28, 2025, the People's Bank of China held a coordination meeting to combat speculative trading and illegal activities involving cryptocurrencies. High-ranking representatives from 13 key agencies attended, emphasizing the consistent implementation of anti-crypto measures established in 2021. The central bank noted a resurgence in speculation and related illegal activities with digital assets.

The recent resolution reiterated that cryptocurrencies are not legal tender and cannot circulate or be used as currency in the market. All transactions involving cryptocurrencies are deemed illegal financial activities. The authorities have now specifically targeted stablecoins, categorizing them as a central risk factor due to their potential for money laundering and fraud.

In conclusion, China's regulatory stance remains stringent, with a clear focus on maintaining economic stability and controlling financial risks associated with cryptocurrencies.

Malaysia Cracks Down on Illegal Bitcoin Mining

In Malaysia, the fight against illegal Bitcoin mining has escalated into a "cat-and-mouse game." Authorities are employing drones to detect unusual heat sources indicative of illegal mining operations, while police use sensors to monitor suspicious electricity consumption. Over the past five years, Malaysia has uncovered around 14,000 illegal mining sites, resulting in losses of approximately $1.1 billion for the state energy company Tenaga Nasional due to electricity theft.

On November 19, the Malaysian government established a special inter-ministerial committee to coordinate efforts against illegal mining operators. Deputy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir highlighted that these activities pose serious challenges to the power grid and could damage infrastructure.

In summary, Malaysia is intensifying its crackdown on illegal Bitcoin mining, reflecting the significant economic impact and risks associated with unregulated operations.

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