Crypto Recap: USDC Expansion, Overnight Bitcoin ETF, Japan’s Regulatory Shift, Gemini License Win, Xiaomi–Sei Deal
Welcome to our exciting weekly recap in the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies! On Monday, December 8 th, 2025, at 9:00:05 AM EST (3:00:05 PM CET), we will analyze the prices of the top 10 cryptocurrencies according to Coin Market Cap and anticipate how the market could evolve throughout the week. On Friday, December 12th, 2025, at 6:00:02 PM EST (12:00:02 PM CET), we will compare these prices with the closing values to identify market trends and fluctuations.
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1. Circle and Bybit Expand USDC Partnership as Stablecoin Nears $80B
Circle and Bybit have strengthened their strategic partnership to boost USDC’s liquidity and adoption across Bybit’s global ecosystem. With USDC nearing a $80 billion market cap, Bybit plans deeper integration of the stablecoin across spot, derivatives, payments, and cross-chain support — all within a transparent, compliant framework. USDC is already embedded throughout Bybit’s platform, and this expanded collaboration aims to deliver faster settlements, better liquidity, and broader utility for users worldwide.
2. New “AfterDark” ETF Bets Bitcoin’s Best Gains Happen Overnight
Tidal Trust has filed for a new ETF that only holds Bitcoin during after-hours trading, aiming to capture BTC’s overnight price gains. The proposed Nicholas Bitcoin and Treasuries AfterDark ETF would buy BTC at the U.S. market close and sell at the next market open, shifting funds into Treasuries and cash equivalents during the day to reduce volatility exposure. ETF analyst Eric Balchunas noted that “most of Bitcoin’s gains happen after hours,” suggesting the fund could deliver stronger returns. The filing is still pending SEC approval.
3. Japan Plans Major Regulatory Shift as Crypto Moves Under Securities Law
Japan is preparing a significant overhaul of its crypto rules by moving oversight from the Payment Services Act to the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act — the country’s main securities framework. The FSA’s new report argues that crypto should be treated as a financial investment product, proposing stricter disclosure requirements for IEOs and tougher action against unregistered platforms. Regulators say the shift is necessary as crypto is increasingly used for investment both in Japan and globally.
4. Gemini Jumps 14% After Securing US License to Launch Prediction Markets
Gemini’s affiliate, Gemini Titan, has received a designated contract market license from the CFTC, clearing the way for the exchange to offer prediction markets in the United States. The platform will soon allow US users to trade event contracts and plans to expand into crypto futures, options, and perpetuals. Following the announcement, Gemini’s shares surged 13.7% in afterhours trading.
5. Xiaomi to Pre-Install Sei Wallet on Millions of Phones Worldwide
Xiaomi will pre-install a Sei blockchain wallet and crypto app on all smartphones sold outside China and the U.S., giving Sei instant distribution across Europe, LATAM, Southeast Asia and Africa. The app will support MPC security, access to top crypto dApps and peer-to-peer/merchant payments. Both companies also plan to enable stablecoin payments — including USDC — for Xiaomi products like phones and EVs starting in Hong Kong and the EU by mid-2026.
Sources
- https://cointelegraph.com/news/bybit-partners-circle-usdc-supply-nears-80-billion
- https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-afterdark-etf-overnight-market-hours
- https://cointelegraph.com/news/japan-rewrites-crypto-rules-investment-not-payment-tool
- https://cointelegraph.com/news/gemini-nabs-us-license-offer-prediction-markets
- https://cointelegraph.com/news/xiaomi-pre-install-sei-crypto-wallet-smartphones
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