Bitcoin mining difficulty is set for a new increase in December 2025 against the backdrop of a record low hash rate, posing serious challenges for miners.
This is reported by Business • Media
Expected Increase in Difficulty and Its Impact on Miners
According to current data, the next adjustment of Bitcoin mining difficulty is scheduled for December 10, 2025, when at block 927,360, the difficulty may rise from 149.30 trillion to 154.72 trillion. This follows a previous decrease in difficulty recorded on November 27, when the rate fell from 152.2 trillion to 149.3 trillion, allowing for an average block mining time of 9.97 minutes — slightly faster than the target of ten minutes.
Despite a slight relief for miners after the last adjustment, the market remains extremely tense due to the exceptionally low hash rate, which defines the expected profitability per unit of power. As of the end of November 2025, this figure hovers around $38.6 per PH/s per day, having slightly recovered from a low of below $35 recorded on November 21. For most miners, the critical level is $40 PH/s: below this mark, their operations become unprofitable, forcing many to decide whether to “de-energize” their equipment or continue working.
“Bitcoin mining difficulty may rise in December 2025, despite a recent decrease, while the hash rate remains near historical lows.”
Challenges for Miners and Current Industry Situation
In addition to low profitability, companies are facing serious financial difficulties. Over the past 12 months, the total debt of Bitcoin miners has reached $12.7 billion, increasing by 500%. Additional burdens may arise from taxation initiatives in some regions, particularly in New York, as well as geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, affecting logistics and the supply of mining equipment.
Amid these events, China has regained its third place in the global ranking by hash rate, achieving over 14% share in the fourth quarter of 2025. This indicates the country’s ability to maintain significant influence over the global mining landscape, despite restrictions and changes in regulatory policy.
- The hash rate is near historical lows.
- An increase in difficulty may further complicate miners’ operations.
- With a hash rate below $40 PH/s, mining becomes unprofitable for most industry participants.