@shadow86saber
By March 11, 2025, several nations have imposed restrictions on cryptocurrency mining, targeting Proof-of-Work (PoW) projects like Bitcoin and Litecoin due to energy consumption and environmental concerns. China’s 2021 ban displaced miners to Kazakhstan and the U.S., but subsequent restrictions there, like Kazakhstan’s power limits and U.S. carbon taxes, have squeezed profitability. Bitcoin’s mining difficulty has soared, and Litecoin faces similar pressures, reducing margins for small operators. Short-term, this fragments the hashrate, increases centralization risks, and boosts volatility. Long-term, the industry may shift toward renewables, with miners adopting solar or hydro power, or pivot to AI infrastructure. Hybrid PoW-PoS models could also emerge, balancing security and sustainability. Adaptability is key for future growth.