Washington Goes All-In on Crypto: Trump Pushes Clarity, SEC Rules, and CFTC Warnings
Washington saw a burst of crypto policy activity: the SEC advanced its first crypto-specific rulemaking, Trump hosted crypto executives at the White House, and the CFTC held its first Innovation Advisory Committee meeting. Trump urged Congress to pass a “fair” Clarity Act when lawmakers return, signaling support for bipartisan progress despite an ethics dispute that remains the main sticking point. Private White House talks with top crypto CEOs focused on how the bill could boost U.S. jobs, growth, and onshoring, while also addressing the ethics hurdle. At the CFTC, Chairman Mike Selig said Clarity is the best way to stop future “lawfare” against crypto firms, but warned the agency will use existing authority to build its own crypto market rules if Congress stalls. The SEC proposed “Regulation Crypto Assets,” which would ease fundraising rules for some crypto offerings, create a conditional safe harbor, and preempt some state registration requirements. Its approval via an unusual seriatim process drew attention amid concerns that SEC and White House moves could complicate Clarity negotiations.
