Hunter Horsley, CEO of Bitwise Asset Management, predicts that Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency could trigger a surge in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, potentially accelerating the growth of cryptocurrencies.
Horsley emphasised the possibility of large corporations leveraging their substantial market capitalisations to consolidate power further, stating, “The big may get bigger, and the middle may shrink. If that happens, it will accelerate crypto.”
Stalled M&A Activity Poised for a Rebound
For several years, M&A activity has been paused. According to data, while 2024 saw a slight rise in announced deals to $1.4 trillion compared to 2023, these figures still lag behind pre-pandemic levels.
Economic uncertainty and rising interest rates had dampened deal-making enthusiasm, leaving many companies in a holding pattern.
The Trump administration’s expected policy shifts, such as lower interest rates, business-friendly economic strategies, and relaxed regulatory frameworks, could create a fertile ground for deal-making in 2025.
With these factors in place, experts anticipate a boom in both the number and size of M&A transactions.
Big Tech’s Role in Crypto Expansion
Horsley’s comments also highlighted the role of large corporations like Amazon and Google in shaping the crypto market. These companies are not only exploring traditional M&A opportunities but also increasingly venturing into blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies.
Amazon, for instance, has positioned itself as a leader in the blockchain space through Amazon Web Services (AWS). Its Amazon Managed Blockchain service allows businesses to build and operate blockchain networks with ease, catering to the growing demand for scalable and secure decentralized systems.
Similarly, Google has integrated blockchain technology into its ecosystem by offering blockchain-as-a-service through Google Cloud. This enables enterprises to develop and deploy decentralized applications (dApps), reinforcing Google’s presence in the burgeoning blockchain landscape.
Corporate giants aim to strengthen their influence in the crypto sector by adopting these technologies and expanding through acquisitions by adopting these technologies and expanding through acquisitions.
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Such moves highlight the interplay between traditional M&A strategies and blockchain innovations in driving the broader adoption of decentralized finance.
Why Crypto Benefits from M&A
As the largest corporations consolidate their power through strategic deals, the fundamental ethos of cryptocurrencies comes into sharper focus.
This dynamic could catalyze crypto adoption. If the public perceives that corporate consolidation limits options and stifles competition, decentralized systems may emerge as a viable alternative.
Blockchain technology and digital assets offer transparency, autonomy, and accessibility, which could appeal to individuals and businesses alike in an increasingly centralized economic landscape.
A Pivotal Year Ahead
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a defining moment for both M&A activity and the crypto industry. With favourable economic conditions and a renewed focus on deal-making, companies are expected to capitalize on new growth opportunities.
At the same time, the continued exploration of blockchain technology by corporate giants could bridge the gap between traditional markets and the decentralized future envisioned by crypto advocates.
As Horsley concluded, “2025 is going to be so fascinating.” The interplay between corporate consolidation and the rise of decentralized technologies may define the next chapter in global finance.
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