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Homepage/News/Massive Hack Triggers $325B Crypto Market Cap Loss
NEWS

Massive Hack Triggers $325B Crypto Market Cap Loss

BY Solomon M.·2 MIN READ·JANUARY 1, 2026

$325 billion has been erased from the crypto market cap since February 21, 2025, following a major hack on Bybit exchange, with North Korea’s Lazarus Group suspected of stealing $1.4-1.5 billion.

KEY FINDINGS - EVIDENCE LEVEL: MULTI-SOURCE
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Key Points:
  • Bybit hacked, causing $1.5B Ethereum loss and crypto sell-off.
  • $325 billion wiped from market capitalization.
  • Bitcoin and altcoins experience sharp declines.

This market downturn highlights vulnerabilities in cryptocurrency exchanges and has led to significant selling pressure, liquidations, and loss of investor confidence amid fears of further financial instability.

The total crypto market capitalization dropped by $325 billion due to a hack at Bybit exchange. There was a $1.4-$1.5 billion theft from the Ethereum wallets, sparking widespread selling pressures.

Bybit’s CEO promised to cover user losses, but confidence remained low. As Citadel Securities played a pivotal role as a liquidity provider, there was a substantial sell-off reaction, exacerbating the market decline.

The crypto market experienced dramatic losses with Bitcoin dipping below $90,000, as detailed in recent news. Ethereum and Solana saw sharp declines. Overall, altcoins suffered liquidity drains. $100 billion was lost in one hour alone, illustrating the market’s turbulence.

Financial implications included $150 billion in 24-hour liquidations. The rapid liquidity crunch underscored market fragility. Concerns grew over a potential systemic failure akin to the FTX collapse.

Participants in the market faced rapid loss in asset values, affecting investor sentiment. Governmental and institutional reactions were scrutinized, with concerns about regulatory oversight and market stability arising.

Potential outcomes include enhanced security protocols and regulatory frameworks. Historical events remind of cascading effects on prices under thin liquidity. The emphasis on market stability grows as technology and regulatory systems evolve.

Ben Zhou, CEO of Bybit, announced, “We will cover all user losses from the $1.4-1.5 billion hack,” but his statement failed to restore market confidence amid fears of an FTX-style collapse.
Disclaimer:

The content on The CCPress is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry inherent risks. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

SOURCE TRANSPARENCY
  • External Source - Referenced domain: phemex.com
  • Byline - Reported by Solomon M.
  • Coverage Desk - Primary editorial category: News
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