PANews reported on January 12th that, according to DL News, data from Architect Partners shows that publicly disclosed M&A deals in the crypto industry are projected to surge to $37 billion by 2025, more than seven times the previous year's figure and far exceeding analysts' expectations of approximately $30 billion, setting a new record for the industry. Deal volume increased by 74% year-over-year to 356 deals, with 39 deals exceeding $100 million and 17 exceeding $500 million.

Areta co-founder Karl-Martin Ahrend stated that the pace of M&A transactions will depend on regulatory clarity, interest rates, risk appetite, and valuation attractiveness. Traditional financial institution buyers are most interested in the stablecoin and payments sectors. He anticipates continued M&A activity in 2026, with the industry shifting towards building sustainable companies, resulting in more "bridge" mergers and acquisitions with transaction terms more focused on risk management. However, unexpected regulatory hurdles are also possible, and a clear signal regarding US regulatory direction is expected in early 2026.