Core Insights - Crypto salaries are declining despite Bitcoin's strong performance, as companies focus on cost discipline and normalize pay after aggressive expansion [1][2] - The industry is experiencing a cooling period, moving from explosive growth to a more structured approach in talent and capital distribution [2][5] Compensation Trends - The 2024/2025 Crypto Compensation Report indicates a broad decline in average total compensation across most seniority levels, with mid-level roles seeing flat growth and entry-level positions facing the steepest cuts [3][4] - Executive-level compensation has seen meaningful increases, creating a "barbell effect" where gains are concentrated at the top while most of the workforce experiences stagnation or decline in pay [4][5] Hiring Dynamics - Hiring has slowed, averaging 3.8 weeks per role with four interview rounds, and about 68% of job offers are accepted, primarily influenced by salary expectations [3] - Entry-level positions account for approximately 10% of total roles, while engineering roles make up about two-thirds of the workforce [4] Geographic Insights - Western Europe remains a dominant region in the crypto labor market, benefiting from venture funding, regulatory clarity, and institutional infrastructure [6]