Bitcoin: Miners Face a 5.92% Surge in Mining Difficulty

The Bitcoin network has just imposed a new effort on its miners. On October 16, 2026, the mining difficulty increased by 5.92%, reaching 140.58 trillion at block 971,712. This is its highest level since March 5 and the third largest increase recorded this year. This progression occurs as the network's computing power goes back above one zettahash per second. But behind this activity surge hides a less favorable reality. Miners now have to mobil…