BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 928,126
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 16 DEC 2025
Precedence: Routine FNG (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Bondi Beach, Hero Recovery, SyriaâAttack, Ukraine Strikes Russian Submarine, Manhunt reset, Fentanyl Designated as WMD, US Military Actions on Drug Vessels, New Yearâs Eve bomb plot, Minnesota fraud case, SNAP/immigration, Trump filed a $10B lawsuit against the BBC, KindlyMD faces Nasdaq delisting, Strategy Buys More Bitcoin, American Bitcoin Co. Adds 261 BTC, Ford Takes $19.5 Billion EV Charge, Stock Markets Slide Amid Data Wait, Key jobs report delayed due to a computer-system issue, Trump threatened broadband funding, US Suspends Tech Deal with UK, Amazon Launches Leo Satellite Project
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $87,094 20.31 oz Gold, .20 Median US House
24hr Hi: $89,874 / Lo: $85,129
Volume: $32.23 B
Mkt Cap: $1.73 T
HashRate: 1,177.54 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2 sats/vBtye (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Bondi Beach Mass Shooting in Sydney: On December 14, 2025, a mass shooting occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach, resulting in 15 fatalities and 40 wounded from two gunmen. Australian authorities confirmed the attackers used semi-automatic weapons and were neutralized by police within minutes. The incident prompted immediate global condemnation and calls for enhanced security at public events. Investigations revealed one gunman had ties to extremist groups, while the other remains unidentified pending forensic analysis. Leaders from New Zealand, Iran, and other nations denounced the Bondi Beach attack, expressing solidarity with Australia and the Jewish community. The United Nations issued a statement urging vigilance against hate crimes. Diplomatic channels activated for sharing intelligence on potential international links. No group claimed responsibility as of December 16. (Al Jazeera)
2. Hero Recovery After Tackling Gunman: Ahmed el Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of two and local business owner, underwent surgery for multiple gunshot wounds sustained after disarming one of the attackers. Witnesses reported his actions prevented further casualties. Police commended his bravery in official reports. (Reuters)
3. SyriaâAttack in Palmyra killed U.S. service members and a civilian interpreter. The U.S. Army identified two Iowa National Guard soldiers (Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown) killed in a shooting near Palmyra, Syria, alongside a U.S.interpreter; three other Guard members were wounded. AP reported the attacker was linked to Islamic State and was killed at the scene. State and federal officials publicly issued condolence statements and indicated retaliation messaging toward IS. (AP)
4. Ukraine Strikes Russian Submarine: Ukrainian forces reported successfully targeting a Russian submarine in a Black Sea port using underwater drones on December 13, marking the first such operation. The strike caused significant damage, with Russian naval assets relocating in response. Intelligence confirms the vessel was a Kilo-class submarine used for missile launches. Casualty figures remain unverified. (CNN)
-US Events-
1. Manhunt reset after release of detained âperson of interestâ Providence officials announced late Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 that a detained âperson of interestâ in the Dec. 13 Brown University shooting would be released from custody, and the suspect remained at large. Reuters reported police went door-to-door seeking home surveillance footage and publicly released additional video/stills showing a stocky-built suspect wearing dark clothing and a face covering near campus about two hours before the attack. Reuters said the gunman fled after opening fire in a classroom in the Barus & Holley engineering/physics building, where outer doors had been left unlocked during exams. AP News identified the two students killed as Ella Cook (19) and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov (18) and reported nine others were wounded. (Primary Source: Reuters)
2. Fentanyl Designated as WMD: The White House announced on December 16 the classification of fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction to enable stronger enforcement measures. This allows for expanded federal resources in combating distribution networks. Over 100,000 annual overdose deaths were cited. International cooperation is sought. (Reuters)
3. US Military Actions on Drug Vessels: On December 14, US forces intercepted and attacked three vessels in the eastern Pacific, identified as drug trafficking boats carrying cocaine. Eight people were killed in total, three in the first vessel, two in the second and three in the third. The operation involved naval assets and resulted in the seizure of 2 tons of narcotics.
(Al Jazeera)
4. U.S. homeland securityâDOJ charged four in alleged New Yearâs Eve bomb plot. U.S. prosecutors announced arrests of four suspects accused of planning coordinated bombings set for New Yearâs Eve in Southern California. The filing described a multi-target plan and laid out charging instruments; operational details were expected to be litigated in federal court. The case was presented as an active counterterrorism-style disruption rather than a completed attack. (AP)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Treasury/FinCENâNew scrutiny planned for money-services flows tied to Minnesota fraud case. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Treasury would increase reporting requirements for money services businesses and issue a geographic targeting order after a major Minnesota fraud case involving COVID relief funds. Reuters reported Treasury personnel were examining involved businesses and that FinCEN would issue investigation notices. The reporting emphasized focus on flows to areas of concern including Somalia. (Reuters)
2. SNAP/immigrationâFederal judge ordered USDA to extend state compliance timeline. A U.S. judge required USDA to give states more time to implement immigration-related eligibility restrictions tied to SNAP guidance. Reuters reported the injunction extends the grace period into April 2026 and came after a lawsuit by 21 Democratic-led states plus D.C. The judge cited confusion and potential state harm in the ruling. (Reuters)
3. DefamationâTrump filed a $10B lawsuit against the BBC. AP reported President Trump sued the BBC for defamation, seeking $10 billion, alleging deceptive editing of his Jan. 6, 2021 speech in a pre-election documentary. The complaint argues editing choices created a false impression about intent and affected the 2024 election environment. The matter moves into civil litigation with defenses expected around editorial judgment and legal standards for public figures. (AP)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. KindlyMD faces Nasdaq delisting risk. The Nasdaq exchange told KindlyMD (NAKA) that it faces being delisted after its share price dropped below $1 for 30 consecutive business days. The health-care company that is building a bitcoin treasury has until June 8 to regain compliance, which requires the stock to close at or above $1 for at least 10 consecutive business days. The shares first fell below $1 in late October, and closed Monday at $0.38. (Coindesk)
2. Strategy Buys More Bitcoin. On Monday Dec. 15th Strategy acquired 10,645 BTC for ~$980.3 million at an average price of $92,098 per bitcoin. As of 12/15/2025, Strategy holds 671,268 Bitcoin (Strategy Public Release)
3. American Bitcoin Co. Adds 261 BTC American Bitcoin Corp, co-founded by Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. bought 261 BTC for $23.5 million, lifting its total to 5,044 BTC worth about $434 million. This move ranks the Nasdaq-listed company 21st among top corporate holders, ahead of ProCap Financial's 5,000 BTC. (BTC Treasuries.net)
-Institutional Concerns-
NSTR
-Economic Indicators-
1. Ford Takes $19.5 Billion EV Charge: Ford announced on December 16 a $19.5 billion accounting charge due to reduced electric vehicle demand and production cuts. The move includes asset writedowns and supplier contract terminations. Sales data showed a 20% drop in EV units. Restructuring plans follow. (Fortune)
2. Stock Markets Slide Amid Data Wait: Global stocks declined on December 15 as investors awaited delayed US economic data and central bank decisions. The S&P 500 fell 1.1%, with tech sectors leading losses. Bond yields rose slightly. Volatility index increased 5%.
(Reuters)
3. U.S. economyâKey jobs report delayed due to a computer-system issue. The U.S. Commerce Department delayed publication of the October jobs report because of a computer-system problem, according to Reuters. The delay affected scheduled market and policy consumption of the data. The department indicated the report would be released after the issue was resolved. (Reuters)
-Security Concerns-
NSTR
-Technology and Science-
1. AI policyâTrump threatened broadband funding cuts for states with restrictive AI laws. Reuters reported President Trump said states judged to be restraining AI innovation could lose access to the $42B BEAD broadband program. The administrationâs line emphasized centralized approval and reduced state-by-state compliance burdens. The action was presented as an executive-order-driven enforcement posture.(AP News)
2. US Suspends Tech Deal with UK: The US suspended a technology-sharing agreement with Britain on December 16 over artificial intelligence concerns. The deal, signed earlier in 2025, aimed at boosting ties. Reasons include data security protocols. Negotiations for revisions underway. (Reuters)
3. Amazon Launches Leo Satellite Project: Amazon announced on December 15 the deployment of Leo satellites to expand global internet access, competing with Starlink. Initial launches involve 100 units for testing. Coverage targets remote areas. Regulatory approvals secured in multiple countries. (CNN)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 22/100 (down 3)
Analyst Comments NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
Watch us on YouTube and X Spaces: Tuesdays at 9pmEST/6pmPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
â¨đˇâŠ â¨BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 928,407
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 19Dec2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: EU Decides Not to Use Russian Assets / China Announces Response to US Arms to Taiwan / UK Beats War Drums / Brown U Killer Conspiracy Grows / Investigators Shocked Over MN Fraud / Privateers May Make Comeback / Bitcoin Miner Defrauded Investors / ECB Ready for CBDC / Ledn Shares Lending Data / CPI Down, Stocks Up / Cops Can Get Google Search Data Without Warrant / Fold Opens in 50 States
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $87,976, 20.22 oz Gold, .20 Median US House
24hr Hi: $89,412 / Lo: $85,107
Volume: 59B (Up 30%)
Mkt Cap: $1.75T (Even)
HashRate: 1 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2 sats/vBtye (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. The European Union has agreed to a âŹ90 billion interest-free loan for Ukraine to support its military and economic needs over the next two years. The agreement avoids using frozen Russian assets due to opposition from Belgium. (BBC)
2. China's defense ministry announced it will take forceful measures and increase military training in response to a $11.1 billion | 125,853 BTC U.S. arms sales package to Taiwan. The actions aim to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. (Reuters)
3. Britainâs defense chief calls on Gen Z grads leaving university to skip corporate jobs and join the military as war with Russia becomes a growing risk: Sir Richard Knighton stressed that the U.K.âs defense âcannot be outsourced to the armed forces,â and called on young citizens to step up. The U.K.âs youth unemployment surged to the highest rate in over a decade, as the jobless rate among 16- to 24-year-olds climbed to 16% in the three months leading to October. (Fortune) (AC-The UK and EU war drumbeat against Russia increases. The fear is real, the threat, well, debatable.)
-US Events-
1. Brown University Shooting Suspect Dead of Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound: the âperson of interestâ whom police had pursued had been identified earlier in the day. Moreover, law enforcement was eyeing a possible connection between Saturdayâs Brown University shooting and Mondayâs slaying of MIT professor Nuno Loureiro. MIT professor Loureiro was shot multiple times at his home Monday night and rushed to the hospital, where he died. (Breitbart) (AC-This story lives in the world of conspiracies fifteen levels deep. Get to work OSINTers!)
2. Magnitude âcannot be overstatedâ: Feds say Minnesota fraud may be more than $9B: "Minnesotans and taxpayers deserve to know the truth of the fraud," First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson told reporters. "The fraud is not small. It isn't isolated. The magnitude cannot be overstated. What we see in Minnesota is not a handful of bad actors committing crimes. It's staggering industrial-scale fraud. It's swamping Minnesota and calling into question everything we know about our state." Thompson explained that 14 programs have been identified as containing fraud and those programs have cost taxpayers $18 billion overall since 2018. (Fox)
3. Sen. Mike Lee Bill Authorizes Privateers to Combat Cartels Outside U.S. Borders: Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation Thursday that would allow private entities to stop drug cartel smuggling and violence. The Cartel Marque and Reprisal Reauthorization Act authorizes President Donald Trump to commission American operators under letters of marque to seize cartel property and persons on land or sea outside the United States. Letters of marque, once a commonly used tool to fight piracy, authorized private citizens to seize enemy vessels with their cargoes and crew. (Breitbart) (AC-Drama on the high seas!)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. SEC Charges Bitcoin Miner for Duping Investors Out of $48.5 Million: The U.S. SEC has charged Danh C. Vo, founder and CEO of bitcoin mining company VBit Technologies Corp., with defrauding investors out of $48.5 million. According to the SEC, Vo misused the funds for gambling, cryptocurrency purchases, and gifts to family members, while misleading investors about the operations of his business. He sold âhosting agreements,â which promised investors a share of profits from bitcoin mining rigs operated by VBit. Most customers chose this passive investment option rather than purchasing rigs themselves. (BitcoinMag)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. European Central Bank Says It's Ready to Launch a Digital Euro: The European Central Bank is prepared to introduce a digital euro, with technical work completed and the European Council and Parliament involved in reviewing the project. ECB officials emphasize the importance of political authorization for issuing the digital currency to support financial stability and privacy. (Decrypt) (AC-Did someone say 'Big Brother'?)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Ledn Launches Open Book Report Amid Bitcoin Lending Boom: Ledn, one of the worldâs largest bitcoin lenders, announced that it is releasing an Open Book Report, providing standardized, independent disclosures of its BTC loan book, collateral levels, and loanâtoâvalue ratios. The first report shows $868âŻmillion in outstanding loans backed by 18,488⯠BTC, with 100âŻ% of collateral held in custody and verified by The Network Firm LLP. (BitcoinCom)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Inflation Rate Below Forecasts: The annual inflation rate in the US came in at 2.7% in December 2025, the lowest since July, below forecast of 3.1% and 3% reported for September. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Stocks Surge on Slower Inflation: Stocks in the US rose sharply on Thursday, with the S&P 500 jumping 1%, the Nasdaq rising 1.4% and the Dow Jones adding about 340 points, after latest data showed inflation rate unexpectedly decreased in November. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Pa. high court rules that police can access Google searches without a warrant: In its opinion, the court said that internet users making searches have no reasonable right to privacy because âit is common knowledge that websites, internet-based applications, and internet service providers collect, and then sell, user data.â (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Fold Launches Nationwide Bitcoin Services Across All 50 States With BitGo: The expansion follows a strategic partnership with BitGo Bank & Trust, which recently became one of the first digital asset companies to secure a federal bank charter from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 16/100 (Down 1 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
Watch us on YouTube and X Spaces: Tuesdays at 9pmEST/6pmPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To ReportâŠ
â¨đˇâŠ â¨BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 928,407
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 18Dec2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: EU Votes to Use Russian Assets / China Turns Hainan Island into FTZ / Mexican President Asks UN to Intervene in US-Venezuela Tensions / Brown U Shooter Still At Large / Trump Announces $1,776 'Warrior Dividend' / US Admits Liability in DC Air Crash / Fed Allows State Banks Permission to Engage in Crypto / SEC Allows Financial Firms to Control Your Keys / Bhutan Invests 10K BTC Into New City / MSTR Controls 3.2% of Bitcoin Supply / BTC ETFs Outflow, Price Down / Stocks Dump / Play Game, Lose Crypto / New Grok Rules Allow Your Inputs to Be Used by X / Bitcoin Lightning at ATH
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $87,629, 20.22 oz Gold, .20 Median US House
24hr Hi: $90,264 / Lo: $85,316
Volume: 44B (Up 19%)
Mkt Cap: $1.74T (Even)
HashRate: 1 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2 sats/vBtye (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. EU leaders convened to approve using frozen Russian assets to provide billions in loans to Ukraine, amid ongoing tests of the bloc's unity. Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Russia would seize additional Ukrainian territory if European peace initiatives are dismissed. (Reuters)
2. China launches $113 billion free-trade experiment on Hainan island: China on Thursday split off a Belgium-sized island with an economy comparable to a mid-ranked country from the mainland for customs processing, part of a bid to join a major trans-Pacific trade deal and establish a new Hong Kong-style commercial hub. Officials hope that turning the southern province of Hainan into a duty-free zone will spur foreign investment, with goods that achieve at least 30% local value-added able to move on into the world's second-largest economy tariff-free. Foreign firms will also be able to operate in service sectors that are restricted on the mainland. (Reuters) (AC-It is an interesting study to observe how a communist tyranny has learned to harness the power of capitalist incentive structures, via operations in Hong and now Hainan, which is no small island. Advances in digital surveillance technologies may be a significant contributor to the CCP allowing such a large island seek economic rewards. It also highlights the weakness in the current Chinese economy.)
3. Mexican President Sheinbaum Calls UN To Get Involved In U.S.-Venezuela Tensions To 'Avoid Any Bloodshed': Sheinbaum said the UN has not "taken its role" in conflict resolution so to "always look for a peaceful solution among the peoples." Trump announced on Monday the blockade in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, saying the U.S. has designated the Venezuelan authoritarian government as a foreign terrorist organization and ordered a "total and complete blockade" of sanctioned oil tankers. (IBTimes)
-US Events-
1. A gunman responsible for a shooting at Brown University in the US remained at large on the fifth day of an intensive manhunt. Police appealed to residents for doorbell camera footage to aid the investigation. (Fox)
2. Trump announces $1,776 | 0.02 BTC âwarrior dividendâ payout for military personnel: Donald Trump announced in a prime-time White House address that more than 1.45 million military service members will receive $1,776 each as a `Warrior Dividend` before Christmas.
Trump said the payments were funded by tariffs and the 'One Big, Beautiful Bill.' (GroundNews)
3. U.S. Government Admits Liability in Deadly D.C.-Area Air Collision: A federal court filing says the Army crew piloting a Black Hawk helicopter could have avoided the nighttime accident in January if it had been able to see and avoid a commercial jet. Because of the actions of the pilots, âthe United States is liable to a plaintiff who is legally eligible to recover certain monetary damagesâ in an âamount yet to be determined and apportionedâ among the victims, the filing said. (NYTimes)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Fed Updates Policy to Allow State Member Banks to Engage in Crypto-Related Activities: The Federal Reserve has replaced a nearly three-year-old policy to allow state member banks to engage in crypto-related activities, aiming to encourage responsible innovation. (Decrypt)
2. New SEC rules lets Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sach legally âcontrolâ your private keys without the safety net you assume exists: The SEC has refreshed its crypto asset FAQs, clarifying how broker-dealers like Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and others can satisfy custody and capital requirements for crypto asset securities, and addressing how the framework applies to Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF activity. Regulators just quietly removed the primary "safe harbor" requirement, allowing banks to claim custody of your assets through paperwork rather than physical possession. (CryptoSlate)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Bhutan pledges 10K Bitcoin to develop its âmindfulness cityâ: Located in the town of Gelephu in Southern Bhutan, Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) was launched in 2024 as Bhutanâs new economic hub to stop the exodus of young Bhutanese from the country by creating high-value local jobs. The city offers regulatory flexibility for crypto and fintech firms and serves as a space to further Bhutanâs Bitcoin mining. (CoinTelegraph)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Michael Saylorâs Bitcoin Treasury Strategy Now Accounts for 3.2% of BTC Supply: Strategy owns 3.2% of all Bitcoin, spending nearly $2 billion | 22,904 BTC in the past two weeks to grow its BTC treasury to 671,268 BTC. (BitcoinMag)
2. U.S. Spot Crypto ETFs See Outflows: U.S. spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs recorded combined outflows exceeding $580 million | 6,641 BTC on Monday, reflecting a broader trend of capital exits from these products. (CoinGecko)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Muted Ahead of CPI Report: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note remained subdued around 4.14% on Thursday, holding declines from earlier in the week as investors positioned ahead of the highly anticipated November CPI report, which is expected to show that price pressures remain above the Federal Reserveâs target. (TradingEconomics)
2. Tech Rout Drags Wall Street Lower: US stocks closed sharply lower on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 falling 1.2% to mark a fourth consecutive session of losses. The Nasdaq dropped 1.8%, while the Dow Jones ended 228 points lower, also extending its losing streak to four sessions. The tech sector led the declines amid persistent concerns over AI-related valuations. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Singapore Entrepreneur Loses Crypto Holdings to Malware Dressed Up as a Game: Mark Koh, a Singapore-based entrepreneur, lost all of his crypto holdings to malware disguised as a game-testing scam. Despite taking precautions, his software wallets were drained of $14,189 within 24 hours, likely due to a combination of authentication token theft and a Google Chrome zero-day vulnerability. (Decrypt)
-Technology and Science-
1. X claims the right to share your private AI chats with everyone under new rules â no opt out: By classifying prompts as "Content," the platform seizes ownership of your inputs, limiting your ability to recover damages to a strict $100 maximum. (CryptoSlate) (AC-Deeply troubling. Upload your resume or cover letter to Grok, and X can use if for whatever it wants. ChatGPT also allows this, but X has been touting it's privacy and freedom values, with this latest move not supporting those values.)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Bitcoinâs Lightning Network Capacity Hits New-All Time High: Bitcoinâs Lightning Network has hit a record 5,637 BTC in capacity, driven by increased capital from institutions, even as user adoption and node growth lag behind. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 17/100 (Down 11 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
Watch us on YouTube and X Spaces: Tuesdays at 9pmEST/6pmPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To ReportâŠ
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 928,265
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 17 DEC 2025
Precedence: Routine FNG (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: U.S. âblockadeâ of sanctioned Venezuela tankers/ Expanded U.S. travel ban list announced/ Small plane crashes in central Mexico/ Brown University shooting/ MIT professor killed at home/ Trump's approval rating slips to 39%/ No vote planned on extending ACA/ Trump says heâll âlook atâ pardoning Samourai/ Bitcoin Hashrate Sees Sharpest Post Halving Drop/ U.S. stock market close/ Oil market reaction to Venezuela/ China economic data weakens/ Warner Bros. Discovery rejects Paramount/ Pornhub premium-user data theft
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $86,981 20.16 oz Gold, .20 Median US House
24hr Hi: $88,148 / Lo: $86,091
Volume: $25.45 B
Mkt Cap: $1.73 T
HashRate: 1,038.66 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1 sats/vBtye (down 1)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. U.S. âblockadeâ of sanctioned Venezuela tankers President Donald Trump announced a âtotal and complete blockadeâ of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela (Dec 16). Reuters reported enforcement details were not fully specified, but the move is intended to increase pressure on NicolĂĄs Maduroâs government; critics raised legal/political objections. Venezuela condemned the action and accused the U.S. of imperial intent.(Reuters)
2. Expanded U.S. travel ban list announced The Trump administration expanded travel/immigration restrictions to 20 additional countries and the Palestinian Authority, broadening a June action affecting 19 countries. AP noted exemptions for certain visa holders, permanent residents, diplomats, and athletes, while advocacy groups criticized the policy and highlighted limited carve-outs for Afghan allies. Implementation is slated for Jan 1, 2026 (AP)
3. Small plane crashes in central Mexico, killing at least 7 people A small plane crashed in central Mexico while trying to make an emergency landing Monday, killing at least seven people. The accident took place in San Mateo Atenco, an industrial area about 31 miles west of Mexico City. The private jet had registered eight passengers and two crew, but hours after the crash only seven bodies had been recovered. The plane had apparently tried to land on a soccer field but hit the metal roof of a nearby business, starting a large fire. The crash is under investigation. (AP)
-US Events-
1. Brown University shooting: reward and updated imagery The FBI posted a $50,000 reward for information leading to the suspectâs arrest and described the shooting inside the engineering building using a 9mm handgun, with two dead and nine injured. Authorities released new images of a person of interest and continued the manhunt with FBI support. Officials urged public review of neighborhood cameras and personal footage for suspect identification. (Guardian)
2. MIT professor killed at home; homicide investigation Nuno F.G. Loureiro (47), an MIT professor and director of MITâs Plasma Science and Fusion Center, was shot at his Brookline home on the night of Dec. 15, 2025, and died at a hospital the next morning, prompting authorities to open a homicide investigation. No suspect or motive had been publicly identified as of Tuesday afternoon. Authorities stated there was no known connection between this killing and the recent Brown University shooting. MIT leadership issued public condolences and campus support measures as the investigation continued. (Guardian)
3. Trump's approval rating slips to 39% President Donald Trump's approval rating slipped in recent days to nearly its lowest level of his current term as voters from his Republican Party soured on his handling of the economy according to a latest poll. Trump returned to power in January with a 47% rating, but his popularity has softened since then, particularly regarding his economic stewardship. A recent government shutdown disrupted data collection on the U.S. economy, but many economists think employers have pulled back on hiring because of what some described as shock from Trump's tariffs on imports. Just 33% of U.S. adults said they approved of how Trump was handling the U.S. economy, the president's lowest rating on the matter this year. (Reuters)
4. No vote planned on extending ACA enhanced subsidies House Speaker Mike Johnson said the House will not hold a vote to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits that are set to expire at the end of 2025. GOP leaders instead moved forward with a separate House health-care package that does not include the subsidy extension, and the Congressional Budget Office estimate cited by AP projects the package would reduce coverage by about 100,000 people per year (2027â2035) while saving $35.6B. Johnson told members no agreement could be reached inside the GOP conference to add an extension, prompting some moderates to consider a discharge petition or bipartisan workarounds to force a floor vote. (Axios)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Trump says heâll âlook atâ pardoning Samourai Wallet developers President Donald Trump said on Dec. 15, 2025 that he had âheard aboutâ the case of Samourai Wallet co-founder Keonne Rodriguez and would âlook at it,â then addressed Attorney General Pam Bondi in the room âWeâll look at that, Pamâ White House comments were framed as a case review rather than a finalized clemency decision. (DeCrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Bitcoin Hashrate Sees Sharpest Post Halving Drop Since 2024 Amid China Machine Shutdowns Bitcoinâs hashrate fell about 8% after reported shutdowns of mining rigs in Chinaâs Xinjiang region, with industry sources estimating roughly 400,000 miners offline. 30-day simple moving average hashrate has recorded its steepest decline since the April 2024 halving, according to Matthew Sigel, head of digital assets research at VanEck. Bitcoin mining difficulty is currently projected to decline by roughly 3%, offering temporary relief to miner revenues (Coindesk)
-Institutional Concerns-
NSTR
-Economic Indicators-
1. U.S. stock market close U.S. equities finished mixed: the S&P 500 fell 0.2% to 6,800.26, the Dow dropped 0.6% to 48,114.26 (down 302 points), and the Nasdaq rose 0.2% to 23,111.46; the Russell 2000 declined 0.4% to 2,519.30. Reports tied the session to mixed U.S. macro signals, including uncertainty around jobs and activity data and what they imply for the Fedâs rate path. (AP)
2. Oil market reaction to Venezuela tanker blockade Oil prices rose more than 2% on Dec 17 after Trumpâs blockade announcement increased supply-risk uncertainty tied to sanctioned Venezuelan flows. Reuters cited Brent and WTI both posting sizable daily gains, alongside separate U.S. inventory data as an additional factor. Traders are watching for enforcement specifics (e.g., Coast Guard posture) and any disruption to buyers and intermediaries.
(Reuters)
3. China economic data weakens; Beijing cautious on fiscal expansion Softer China data and continued deflation risks alongside official messaging that prioritized consumption but avoided large-scale fiscal âsplurges.â Analysts warn incremental measures may be insufficient given the property downturn and weakening investment. Exports and a record trade surplus were described as a stabilizing factor even as domestic demand remained fragile. (Reuters)
4. Warner Bros. Discovery rejects Paramount Skydance bid; backs Netflix deal Warner Bros. Discoveryâs board said it rejected a hostile $30-per-share all-cash bid from Paramount Skydance (reported value ~$108.4B), citing insufficient financing assurances and material execution risk. The board disputed Paramountâs claim the offer was âbackedâ by the Ellison family, saying there was no binding commitment and that the structure relied heavily on a revocable trust with unverified assets. WBD instead reaffirmed support for its binding merger agreement with Netflix at $27.75 per share, which Reuters said includes secured debt commitments and does not depend on outside equity financing. (Financial Times)
-Security Concerns-
1. ShinyHunters claims Pornhub premium-user data theft The âShinyHuntersâ group claimed it stole data tied to Pornhub premium users. 94GB of Pornhub viewing data, including over 200 million records of personal information were stolen; Pornhub acknowledged a cybersecurity incident involving a third-party analytics provider. Mixpanel denied the exposed data came from them. Shiny Hunters is reportedly sending extortion emails to Mixpanelâs customers, threatening to release the data unless ransoms are paid publicly. (PCMag)
-Technology and Science-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 25/100 (down 3)
Analyst Comments NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
â¨đˇâŠ â¨BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 927,575
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 12Dec2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: US, Japan Show of Strength in East China Sea / Thai PM Dissolves Parliament / Machado in Norway for Peace Prize / Trump May Ease Marijuana Regs / MS-13 Leader Arrested in Nebraska / Kirk Killer Trial Starts / Do Kwon Sentenced to 15 Years / Texas Buys First Round of Bitcoin / 65% of BTC Treasuries Underwater / Coinbase Gets into Prediction, Tokenization Markets / Charity Fund to Hold Bitcoin for Years / Stocks Up on Liquidity Injections / Apple CEO Makes Case For Privacy / Ring Facial ID Under Scrutiny / Bitcoin HODLers Do Well, Short-Timers Hurting / Statue of Nakamoto at NYSE Seems Strange / What is Low Time Preference?
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $92,501, 21.30 oz Gold, .21 Median US House
24hr Hi: $93,554 / Lo: $89,335
Volume: 68B (Up 1%)
Mkt Cap: $1.84T (Up 3%)
HashRate: 1 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2 sats/vBtye (Up 100%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. US Bombers Join Japanese Jets in Show of Force After China-Russia Drills: U.S. B-52 bombers conducted joint exercises with Japanese fighter jets over the East China Sea following recent military drills by China and Russia in the region. The operation involved aerial refueling and formation flying, demonstrating allied readiness in response to increased regional tensions. Tokyo reported no direct confrontations during the exercise. (Reuters)
2. Thai PM dissolves parliament to 'return power to people': Thailand has dissolved parliament after nearly a week of fresh clashes along its border with Cambodia, with a general election to be called within 45 to 60 days. (BBC) (AC-Thailand is in crisis mode with the fresh conflict with Cambodia, and now the dissolution of parliament and various political parties vying for power.)
3. Venezuelan Opposition Leader Machado Arrives in Norway After Hiding: Venezuelan opposition figure MarĂa Corina Machado surfaced in Norway hours after the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, having evaded capture by the Maduro government for months. She traveled via fishing boat and private jet, crossing borders undetected. Machado plans to continue advocacy from exile while seeking international support. (CNN)
-US Events-
1. Trump Poised To Greatly Ease Federal Marijuana Regulation: In a move seen as long overdue by many people on both sides of America's left-right political divide, President Trump is expected to use an executive order to dramatically reduce federal restrictions on marijuana. The order, which may come in the next few weeks, will direct federal agencies to move toward reclassifying marijuana as a "Schedule III" drug, which would put it on the same level as common prescription painkillers. (ZeroHedge)
2. DHS Arrests Illegal Alien MS-13 âAssassination Squadâ Leader in Nebraska: Gerson Emir Cuadra Soto allegedly bribed his way out of Honduran prison after being linked to the July 2022 killing of Said Lobo Bonilla, the son of former Honduran President Porfirio Lobo Sosa, and three other victims. Cuadra Soto, known as âFantasmaâ within MS-13, is then alleged to have entered the United States later that year by illegally crossing the southern border. He then obtained a California driverâs license in his true identity, DHS said. (Breitbart)
3. Tyler Robinson, accused of shooting Charlie Kirk, appears in Utah courtroom for first time in person: Robinson is facing multiple charges, including aggravated murder, in connection with Kirkâs Sept. 10 death. Prosecutors have indicated they will seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. (SaltLakeTribune)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Terraform Labs Founder Do Kwon Sentenced to 15 Years For Collapse of UST and Luna: Terraform Labs founder Do Kwon was sentenced to 15 years in prison for committing an "unusually serious" fraud that led to the collapse of UST and Luna. Judge Engelmayer compared Kwon to a cult leader who traded on victims' trust, impacting investors' lives. (Decrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Texas Launches State Crypto Reserve with $5M | 55.73 BTC Bitcoin Purchase: Texas became the first U.S. state to establish a cryptocurrency reserve fund, acquiring $5 million | 55.73 BTC in Bitcoin as an initial investment. (CNBC)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. 65% of Corporate Bitcoin Treasuries Are Underwater: Corporate Bitcoin treasuries swung into widespread unrealized losses in November, as Bitcoinâs brief drop below $90,000 | 0.98 BTC left roughly 65% of measurable corporate holders in the red. (BitcoinMag) (AC-Low vs. high time preferences matter.)
2. Coinbase Gears Up for Launch of Prediction Markets, Tokenized Stocks: Crypto exchange Coinbase is set to introduce prediction markets and tokenized equities, two popular financial products, during a showcase on December 17. The tokenized stocks will be launched directly by Coinbase, not through external partners. (Bloomberg) (AC-Some companies chase the money while very few stick to principles. Such is lot of free enterprise.)
3. Save the Children's new Bitcoin Fund seeks to maximize donation value with up to four-year holding strategy: The fund was developed in partnership with digital asset firm Fortris and is designed to allow the charity to hold, manage, and deploy bitcoin donations during crises. The Bitcoin Fund enables Save the Children to securely hold donated bitcoin for up to four years, hoping to maximize the value of contributions. (TheBlock) (AC-The value of giving and receiving charity with a low time preference Bitcoin mindset changes so many things and opens up new opportunities to be good stewards for those who need it.)
-Economic Indicators-
1. S&P 500 Rebounds, Dow at Fresh Record: The Dow jumped 1.4% to a fresh record and the S&P 500 reversed early session losses to close 0.3% higher, while the Nasdaq pared losses to 0.3% on Thursday afternoon as investors rotated out of richly valued tech names and into cyclicals and beaten down value stocks after the Fed cut rates by 25 basis points to 3.50% to 3.75% and signaled a conditional easing path. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Apple CEO Pushes for Changes in US Child Online Safety Bill: Apple CEO Tim Cook advocated for amendments to a U.S. bill on child online safety, citing potential privacy risks from expanded data collection. The meeting with lawmakers focused on balancing protection with user rights. The legislation remains under debate in Congress. (Reuters)
2. Ring's Facial Recognition Feature Under Scrutiny: Amazon's Ring doorbell facial recognition tool faces questions over privacy implications, particularly for delivery personnel scanned without consent. A U.S. senator requested details on data handling practices. The company affirmed compliance with existing laws. ((WWLP)
-Technology and Science-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Bitcoin Accumulation by Long-term Holders Continues Despite Short-term Holders Facing Significant Losses: Accumulator wallets have been buying up Bitcoin, with 75,000 BTC purchased in early December, despite short-term holders facing 20-30% losses. The market is experiencing significant stress, with unrealized losses totaling around $350 billion. (Decrypt) (AC-The phenomena of low time preference is growing worldwide as the effects of a scarce, immutable asset affect the choices and incentives of millions. Read Von Mises.)
2. Satoshi Nakamoto Statue at NYSE: Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto was honored with a statue at the New York Stock Exchange, marking a symbolic presence in traditional finance. (CoinGecko) (AC-A P2P e-cash system is the antithesis of trad-fi, but change is in the air.)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 29/100 (Even)
Analyst Comments (AC): Today's theme is the incentive structure of human thinking and planning, and how a low time preference changes that in so many ways. For further understanding of the Austrian economic concept, read the 'Bitcoin Standard' by Ammous, or numerous articles within the Mises Institute and other sources. Life under a low time preference leads to more peace of mind, and even better decisions.
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
Watch us on YouTube and X Spaces: Tuesdays at 9pmEST/6pmPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To ReportâŠ
â¨đˇâŠ â¨BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 927,427
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 11Dec2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Thai-Cambodia Conflict Heats Up / US Seizes Oil Tanker Off Venezuela / US Judge Says Trump Must End L.A. Deployment / Washington State Evacuates Areas From Flooding / NDAA Passes House / Crypto Market Bill Tabled Over Holiday / BPI Calls for Samourai Devs Pardon / Bitcoin Exchange Paxful Guilty of Laundering / Twenty-One Debuts on NYSE / Gemini Gets Into Prediction With a Crypto Twist / US Fed Drops Rate 25 bps, Yields Drop, Stocks Up / US to Scour Incoming Foreigners Social Media Accounts / People Uploading Medical Histories to ChatGPT / OpenAI Warns Next Models Increase Cyber Risk
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $90,048, 21.38 oz Gold, .21 Median US House
24hr Hi: $94,477 / Lo: $89,459
Volume: 67B (Even)
Mkt Cap: $1.79T (Down 2%)
HashRate: 1 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1 sats/vBtye (Down 90%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Half a Million Evacuated on Thai-Cambodia Border Amid Conflict: Thai and Cambodian military forces engaged in clashes along their shared border, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 500,000 residents from affected areas. The fighting has intensified despite a recent peace agreement, with both sides deploying additional troops and artillery. U.S. President Trump has initiated diplomatic efforts to mediate and end the hostilities, scheduling talks with regional leaders. (TheGuardian)
2. U.S. Seizes Cuba-Bound Oil Tanker Off Venezuelan Coast: An unnamed source said âthe ship was enroute to Cuba, where the state firm Cubametales was planning to sell it to Asian energy brokers.â Due to U.S. sanctions, most of Venezuelaâs oil product is sold to China. âIt was seized because of its past links to smuggling illicit Iranian oil, not because of ties to the Maduro regime, although it was carrying Venezuelan oil. A federal judge authorized a seizure warrant for the tanker roughly two weeks ago,â a US official said. (Breitbart)
-US Events-
1. US judge says Trump must end National Guard deployment in Los Angeles: A federal judge in California on Wednesday ordered an end to Donald Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles and directed that they be returned to the control of the state's Democratic governor, finding that the Republican president had exceeded his authority. (Reuters)
2. Atmospheric River Drives Record Flood Threat in Washington as Governor Declares Emergency: Meteorologists described a moisture 'jet stream' pushing heavy rain into western Washington as the Skagit River is expected to crest at roughly 41 feet in Mount Vernon on Friday, risking floodwall overtopping. Mount Vernon city officials ordered Level 3 'Leave Now' evacuations for neighborhoods along the Skagit River. (GroundNews)
3. House passes defense bill to raise troop pay and overhaul weapons purchases: Overall, the sweeping bill calls for a 3.8% pay raise for many military members as well as housing and facility improvements on military bases. Lawmakers overseeing the military said the bill would change how the Pentagon buys weapons, with an emphasis on speed after years of delay by the defense industry. The legislation next heads to the Senate, where leaders are working to pass the bill before lawmakers depart Washington for a holiday break. (AP)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Upcoming Crypto Market Structure Bill Markup Likely Pushed To Post-Holiday: The much-anticipated crypto market structure bill, intended to establish a clearer regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States, appears to be facing significant delays. Recent discussions among a bipartisan group of pro-crypto senators suggest that a markup, initially expected before Christmas, may be postponed until after the holiday season. (Bitcoinist)
2. Pardoning the Samourai Developers Would Restore Legal Clarity and Protect Non-Custodial Code: This case has already had a measurable chilling effect on developers working on privacy and security tools in the United States. Leaving the convictions in place would discourage responsible innovation and push critical work to jurisdictions that do not share our commitment to open research and transparent development. A pardon would correct a clear misapplication of federal law, protect the integrity of long-standing distinctions in financial regulation, and reaffirm that publishing non-custodial software is notâand should not becomeâa criminal act. (BitcoinMag)
3. Bitcoin Exchange Paxful Agrees to Plead Guilty, Hit With $7.5 Million in Penalties: Paxful pleaded guilty to federal charges and will pay $7.5 million total in criminal and civil penalties for enabling money laundering and criminal activity on its Bitcoin exchange. Paxful operated as a peer-to-peer exchange through which users traded Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for fiat, prepaid cards, and gift cards. (Decrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin Treasury Company Twenty One Debuts on NYSE: Twenty One, a Bitcoin treasury company, listed on the NYSE and saw its shares drop 25% in initial trading. The debut priced shares at $10 through a PIPE arrangement. The company focuses on holding Bitcoin as a reserve asset for corporate treasuries. (CoinDesk)
2. Gemini Approved by CFTC for U.S. Prediction Markets: The Commodity Futures Trading Commission granted approval to Gemini for offering prediction markets in the U.S. The platform will allow users to trade contracts on event outcomes using cryptocurrencies. Gemini's stock rose nearly 14% following the announcement.(CoinDesk)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Federal Reserve Cuts Interest Rates by 25 Basis Points: The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 3.50%â3.75% to support maximum employment and curb somewhat elevated inflation amid moderate economic growth and slowing job gains. (BitcoinMag)
2. US 10-Year Yield Extends Fall on Dovish Fed View: The US 10-year Treasury yield fell to around 4.12%, marking a second consecutive session of declines after the Federal Reserve delivered its third quarter-point rate cut this year, in line with expectations. (TradingEconomics)
3. US Stocks Extend Gains After Fed: The Dow Jones extended gains, closing 1.1% higher, while the S&P 500 rose 0.7% and the Nasdaq reversed early losses to end 0.4% higher on Wednesday as traders reacted to the FOMC decision and Fed Chair Powellâs remarks. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. U.S. to Scrutinize Foreign Tourists' Social Media Histories: The U.S. government plans to expand reviews of foreign tourists' social media accounts for visa approvals. This includes checking posts for security risks, potentially delaying authorizations. A travel firm warned of longer processing times due to increased data collection. (NYTimes) (AC-A slippery slope of privacy-related issues. Once US government officials are permitted to scour personal accounts (in the name of terrorist ideologies) that door is open to all manner of data collection for whatever administration is in office.)
-Technology and Science-
1. People Uploading Medical Records to AI Chatbots: Individuals are sharing personal health data, such as blood tests, with AI chatbots for analysis. This practice raises risks of breaches and inaccurate advice, as platforms may not follow HIPAA standards. Experts highlight low user awareness of privacy implications. (NYTimes)
2. OpenAI warns new models pose 'high' cybersecurity risk: OpenAI on Wednesday warned that its upcoming artificial intelligence models could pose a "high" cybersecurity risk, as their capabilities advance rapidly. The AI models might either develop working zero-day remote exploits against well-defended systems or assist with complex enterprise or industrial intrusion operations aimed at real-world effects, the ChatGPT maker said in a blog post. (Reuters)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 29/100 (Up 3 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
Watch us on YouTube and X Spaces: Tuesdays at 9pmEST/6pmPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To ReportâŠ