Bitcoin Network Difficulty Set to Increase Amid Mining Profitability Challenges

According to ChainCatcher, the Bitcoin network difficulty is expected to rise from approximately 149.3 trillion to about 149.8 trillion in the next adjustment, indicating intensified competition among miners. At the same time, the hashprice, a key metric for assessing miner profitability, has dropped to near-record lows, with daily earnings per PH/s around $38.3, falling below the breakeven point for many miners. Industry analysts suggest that this combination of increased difficulty and low hashprice will further squeeze profit margins for miners. Smaller operators or those with higher electricity costs may be forced to shut down, potentially accelerating industry consolidation.