Hundreds of employees have been laid off by crypto firms this year, many attributing the cuts to artificial intelligence. Some companies may be using AI as a cover for routine headcount reductions, as firms like Crypto.com and Gemini reduce their workforces. Shareholders have accused Gemini of misleading investors about its pivot into prediction markets and overstating its plans. Bank of America has raised the prospect of a Fed rate rise, which could potentially impact Bitcoin's future. Altcoin trading volume has dropped significantly since October 2025, with Binance experiencing an 80% to 85% drop to $7.7 billion. A new iOS exploit chain called DarkSword has been discovered by Google researchers targeting vulnerable iPhones.