The crypto sector remained active today with major developments shaping markets and policy. Top Bitcoin mining firms revealed robust production figures, the US Senate confirmed a pro-crypto SEC chair under President Donald Trump, and new tariff decisions stirred global market reactions.
Bitcoin Miners Produce $800 Million Worth of BTC in Q1
The largest publicly traded Bitcoin mining companies generated nearly $800 million worth of Bitcoin during the first quarter of 2025. With Bitcoin hovering around $81,600, the sector’s output reflects continued bullish momentum in the market.
According to publicly available data, more than 9,700 BTC were mined by top firms between January and March. Marathon Digital led the industry with 2,285 BTC mined, valued at roughly $186 million. The company also reported strong monthly growth, producing 829 BTC in March—a 17.4% rise from February and 10.5% higher than January.
CleanSpark followed closely, mining 1,950 BTC valued near $160 million. The firm noted a 13.4% increase in March production compared to the previous month. Iren, formerly known as Iris Energy, ranked third with 1,513 BTC mined, worth approximately $124 million.
Paul Atkins Confirmed as SEC Chair
On April 9, the US Senate confirmed Paul Atkins as the new Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), following a 52-44 vote largely along party lines. Nominated by President Donald Trump, Atkins is widely regarded as a pro-crypto figure and previously served as an SEC commissioner from 2002 to 2008.
Atkins is expected to steer the regulatory body in a new direction, emphasising a more supportive stance toward digital assets. At his Senate confirmation hearing in March, he stated his top priority would be to “provide a firm regulatory foundation for digital assets through a rational, coherent, and principled approach.”
Following his time at the SEC, Atkins founded the financial consultancy Patomak Global Partners and co-chaired the crypto advocacy group Token Alliance between 2017 and late 2024.
Trump Pauses Most Tariffs, Increases Pressure on China
In a separate development, President Trump announced a 90-day pause on “reciprocal tariffs” and lowered the tariff rate to 10% on countries that do not retaliate with counter-tariffs. However, the administration will raise the tariff rate on China to 125% in response to Beijing’s countermeasures.
In an April 9 post on Truth Social, Trump stated: “At some point, hopefully, in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the USA, and other countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable.”
Markets React to Tariff Moves
Markets responded quickly to the announcement. The S&P 500 surged nearly 7%, reflecting both relief and volatility in response to the evolving trade landscape. Analysts warn, however, that the escalation of tariffs against China could fuel a longer-term trade conflict, with potential consequences for global supply chains and investor sentiment.
As crypto markets remain sensitive to broader economic shifts, developments in regulation and international trade are expected to continue influencing digital asset prices in the weeks ahead.
