In 2024, the cryptocurrency sector experienced significant developments, with Bitcoin hodlers enjoying monumental gains as Bitcoin prices exceeded $100,000. Despite these highs, the year was marred by scams and hacks that cost victims around $2.2 billion, highlighting the darker side of the crypto landscape. Key winners included Bitcoin holders, with 87% reportedly in profit, and institutional players such as MicroStrategy and El Salvador, who expanded their Bitcoin reserves. The introduction of Cryptocurrency ETFs saw assets under management surpassing $129 billion, bolstering the market. Memecoins also thrived, with Dogecoin and Shiba Inu leading the pack. On the downside, high-profile scams and hacks plagued investors, with notable incidents such as the $825 million heist attributed to North Korean actors. Celebrity-backed projects faced backlash, with many investors pursuing legal action due to perceived securities violations, while entities like the SEC recorded billions in financial remedies. Furthermore, the treasuries of various organizations that profited from crypto were tainted by early sell-offs of seized Bitcoins. Overall, 2024 reflected a complex mix of surging market value for some and significant losses for many others, continuing the trend from previous years.

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