Malaysian Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Bitcoin Mining Operations
In a significant move against cryptocurrency-related energy theft, Malaysian police raided an illegal Bitcoin mining operation across two districts, seizing 45 mining rigs valued at over $52,000. The operation highlights ongoing regulatory challenges in Southeast Asia’s crypto landscape.
Malaysian Police Raid Illegal Bitcoin Mining Operation
Malaysian authorities dismantled an illicit Bitcoin mining network in Hulu Terengganu and Marang districts on April 30. The syndicate allegedly siphoned electricity to power 45 mining rigs worth $52,145, seized during coordinated raids with national utility TNB.
Operations spanned two locations—Bukit Perpat and Wakaf Tapai—marking the latest crackdown on crypto-related energy theft in Southeast Asia. Such incidents highlight regulatory challenges as jurisdictions balance innovation with infrastructure protection.
Bitcoin Surges Past $97K as Markets Recover from Post-Tariff Panic
Bitcoin rallied to $97,000, marking its highest level in nearly ten weeks amid a broader market recovery. The cryptocurrency gained 3.3% over 24 hours and 14% since Liberation Day, outpacing traditional equities. The Nasdaq and S&P 500 also edged higher, signaling renewed investor confidence.
Market sentiment appears to have stabilized following initial turbulence triggered by tariff announcements. Michael Saylor’s strategic positioning ahead of earnings has drawn attention, with speculation mounting around potential capital raises in the crypto sector.
BlackRock’s Digital Assets Head Notes Resurgent Bitcoin ETF Demand at Token2049
Robert Mitchnick, BlackRock’s Head of Digital Assets, revealed a significant resurgence in Bitcoin ETF inflows during a Token2049 Abu Dhabi panel. "Flows are back in a big way," he stated, highlighting a shift from early retail dominance to broader participation by wealth advisors and institutional investors.
Mitchnick drew parallels between Bitcoin and gold adopters, noting shared macroeconomic perspectives. Portfolio reallocations are accelerating, with investors replacing gold entirely or adopting hybrid positions—some opting for 80/20 gold-Bitcoin splits, others going all-in on crypto.
Bitcoin’s Institutional Adoption Surges While Price Stalls Below $100,000
Bitcoin closed April with bullish momentum, yet the anticipated long-term price rally remains elusive. Despite crossing the $90,000 threshold and recording its third-highest week for SEC filings, the cryptocurrency has yet to breach six figures. Institutional demand, however, paints a different picture.
MicroStrategy expanded its holdings by 15,000 BTC in April, underscoring corporate confidence. Meanwhile, Bitcoin is increasingly moving off exchanges into cold storage and institutional custody—via ETFs, trading infrastructure, and fund administrators. This shift signals deepening institutional participation even as retail traders await a breakout.
Bitcoin Price May Reach $125K to $150K by September 2025
The crypto market capitalization has surged back above $3 trillion, signaling growing bullish momentum. Bitcoin, trading above $97,000, is poised to reclaim $100,000 as on-chain data reveals accumulation by whales and long-term holders.
Market strength persists despite restrained trading volumes. A week-long consolidation phase has given way to a breakout, fueled by capital inflows and optimistic sentiment around the six-figure price threshold.
