Researchers Predict Crypto Money Laundering to Reach $82 Billion by 2025
In a striking increase, money launderers received at least $82 billion in cryptocurrencies last year, a significant rise from $10 billion in 2020. This surge has been largely attributed to the rapid growth of Chinese-speaking groups, as highlighted by blockchain researchers on Tuesday.
The most notable trend has been the emergence of Chinese-language money-laundering networks, which gained traction during the pandemic. According to a report by U.S.-based blockchain research firm Chainalysis, these networks processed nearly $40 million worth of crypto daily in 2025.
While blockchains maintain a record of wallet addresses involved in cryptocurrency transactions, pinpointing the individuals behind these wallets remains a complex challenge. Chainalysis reported that it identified approximately 1,800 active wallets utilized by Chinese-language money-laundering networks, which processed an estimated $16.1 billion in crypto during 2025. However, the firm cautioned that these figures might be conservative.
A spokesperson for Chainalysis refrained from disclosing the specific methodology used in their research but directed inquiries to their website. There, they explain how they connect real-world activities to blockchain records through advanced machine learning techniques and forensic analysis.
In China, crypto trading is prohibited, and digital tokens are not recognized as legal tender or assets. In a notable crackdown, the country initiated legal action against 3,032 individuals involved in crypto-related money laundering in 2024, as reported by the nation’s top procurator.
For years, regulators and authorities around the globe have raised alarms about the role of cryptocurrencies in criminal activities, noting that they often operate under less stringent regulations compared to traditional financial systems. Nevertheless, experts emphasize that cryptocurrency is merely one of many avenues through which criminals facilitate the movement of illicit funds.
To evade detection, crypto money-laundering networks employ various techniques, including the use of “guarantee” platforms. These platforms offer escrow services and enable money launderers to promote their services openly, according to Chainalysis.
Chainalysis elaborated, stating, “Chinese-language guarantee platforms, money movement services, and associated financial crime networks reveal a complex and resilient ecosystem that continues to adapt despite enforcement efforts.” They further noted that while actions against guarantee services can disrupt operations, the fundamental networks tend to persist and shift to alternative channels when faced with challenges.
(Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft; editing by Kirstin Ridley and Mark Potter)
In a striking increase, money launderers received at least $82 billion in cryptocurrencies last year, a significant rise from $10 billion in 2020. This surge has been largely attributed to the rapid growth of Chinese-speaking groups, as highlighted by blockchain researchers on Tuesday.
The most notable trend has been the emergence of Chinese-language money-laundering networks, which gained traction during the pandemic. According to a report by U.S.-based blockchain research firm Chainalysis, these networks processed nearly $40 million worth of crypto daily in 2025.
While blockchains maintain a record of wallet addresses involved in cryptocurrency transactions, pinpointing the individuals behind these wallets remains a complex challenge. Chainalysis reported that it identified approximately 1,800 active wallets utilized by Chinese-language money-laundering networks, which processed an estimated $16.1 billion in crypto during 2025. However, the firm cautioned that these figures might be conservative.
A spokesperson for Chainalysis refrained from disclosing the specific methodology used in their research but directed inquiries to their website. There, they explain how they connect real-world activities to blockchain records through advanced machine learning techniques and forensic analysis.
In China, crypto trading is prohibited, and digital tokens are not recognized as legal tender or assets. In a notable crackdown, the country initiated legal action against 3,032 individuals involved in crypto-related money laundering in 2024, as reported by the nation’s top procurator.
For years, regulators and authorities around the globe have raised alarms about the role of cryptocurrencies in criminal activities, noting that they often operate under less stringent regulations compared to traditional financial systems. Nevertheless, experts emphasize that cryptocurrency is merely one of many avenues through which criminals facilitate the movement of illicit funds.
To evade detection, crypto money-laundering networks employ various techniques, including the use of “guarantee” platforms. These platforms offer escrow services and enable money launderers to promote their services openly, according to Chainalysis.
Chainalysis elaborated, stating, “Chinese-language guarantee platforms, money movement services, and associated financial crime networks reveal a complex and resilient ecosystem that continues to adapt despite enforcement efforts.” They further noted that while actions against guarantee services can disrupt operations, the fundamental networks tend to persist and shift to alternative channels when faced with challenges.
(Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft; editing by Kirstin Ridley and Mark Potter)
