

In a significant speech, SEC Chairman Paul Atkins proposed “Project Crypto,” a regulatory initiative aimed at positioning the U.S. as a leader in crypto markets. The project focuses on clarifying token classifications, supporting tokenized securities, modernizing custody rules, and facilitating innovation while reconsidering financial intermediaries. It aims to reshape U.S. financial regulation for blockchain and…

On July 30, 2025, the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets presented a fact sheet to position the U.S. as a leader in digital finance. The recommendations include enhancing regulatory clarity, fast-tracking rulemaking, and modernizing banking practices, while reaffirming opposition to U.S. central bank digital currency, aiming to promote innovation and protect investors.

The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking has released a Discussion Draft to clarify regulations for digital assets, aiming for consumer protection and financial stability. Key aspects include defining digital assets, clarifying SEC and CFTC jurisdiction, establishing stablecoin regulations, enhancing consumer disclosures, and ensuring custodial practices to prevent failures. The draft opens pathways for formal legislative…

The SEC has intensified scrutiny on crypto staking, arguing that certain programs may be unregistered securities. A recent lawsuit against Coinbase indicates a focus on how staking services are marketed rather than the staking itself. This regulatory shift complicates compliance for both centralized and decentralized providers as firms reassess their strategies amid evolving legal standards.

On July 17, 2025, the U.S. House passed H.R. 3633, the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, aiming to establish regulatory structure for digital assets. It defines roles for the CFTC and SEC, introduces clarity on digital commodities vs. securities, and includes provisions for stablecoins and AML compliance. The legislation signifies a shift towards legislative clarity…

The GENIUS Act was enacted on July 18, 2025, establishing the first federal framework for regulating payment stablecoins in the U.S. It requires issuers to maintain 1:1 reserves, comply with consumer protections, and undergo audits. The Act aims to enhance regulatory clarity, consumer safety, and the dollar’s dominance in digital transactions.

On July 14, 2025, the Federal Reserve, FDIC, and OCC issued guidelines for banks engaging in crypto-asset custody, emphasizing risk management and regulatory compliance. The statement outlines responsibilities, including risk assessment, corporate governance, cybersecurity, and third-party oversight, while underscoring the need for proper safeguards and existing legal frameworks to be upheld.

U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis has been appointed chair of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on Digital Assets, highlighting Congress’s commitment to digital finance. The subcommittee will pursue bipartisan legislation and regulate financial agencies while promoting U.S. leadership in blockchain and cryptocurrency, aiming for a balanced approach between innovation and consumer protection.

If you’re a U.S. business that deals with cryptocurrencies on a frequent basis, you’re most likely familiar with the legal concepts “money service business” (MSB) and “money transmitter”. If not, you’re potentially opening yourself up for a world of hurt by not complying with federal and state anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.