Summary
- This blog will outline the executive orders, regulatory activity and legislation since the new Administration started.
- The establishment of strategic reserves, stablecoin legislation such as the Senate passage of the GENUS Act, and the creation of specialized oversight units collectively signal a maturation of U.S. policy toward crypto.
- For more analysis from CCI on U.S. Crypto Policy developments in 2025 and changes announced in the crypto and blockchain sectors, check out this blog.
- This blog was updated on June 18, 2025.
2025 has been nothing short of groundbreaking for the U.S. crypto policy landscape. With the Senate’s passage of the GENIUS Act and a wave of executive actions and regulatory reform, the government has laid out a clear and proactive course for digital asset oversight. From building strategic reserves to abandoning regulation by enforcement, Washington is sending a strong signal: the United States intends not just to keep pace with the digital economy — but to lead it.
These actions are positioning the United States not just as a participant but as a leader in the global digital economy. As other nations grapple with the complexities of digital finance, the U.S. is forging a path defined by innovation, strategic planning, and regulatory clarity. This blog will outline the Executive Orders, Legislation, and Regulatory activity since the new Administration started.
Let’s dive deeper and look across these developments:
Executive Orders
Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile
An executive order established a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and the United States Digital Asset Stockpile to manage seized crypto. The reserve aims to bolster national financial security by maintaining a strategic stock of digital assets. This program is designed not only as a safeguard against future financial crises but also as a step towards recognizing Bitcoin and other digital assets as important components of the global financial system. By formalizing the custody and management of these assets, the U.S. sends a signal to both domestic and international markets about its long-term strategic commitment to digital finance leadership.
Strengthening American Leadership in Fintech
Another executive order sought to accelerate the responsible growth of digital assets. It led to the formation of the Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets, a body made up of representatives from the Treasury Department, Federal Reserve, SEC, and CFTC. This working group has been tasked with crafting a comprehensive regulatory framework that balances innovation with risk management. Beyond this, the order emphasizes support for dollar-backed stablecoins, seeing them as crucial for maintaining the dollar’s dominance in a rapidly digitizing world economy. It also directs agencies to ensure that cryptocurrency businesses have consistent access to banking services, addressing a long-standing hurdle for many in the crypto sector.
Prohibition on CBDCs
The administration explicitly prohibited federal agencies from creating or promoting a Central Bank Digital Currency. Unlike many other nations that are racing to develop CBDCs, the U.S. is citing concerns over government surveillance, individual privacy rights, and the potential disruption to the existing banking system. By blocking federal work on a CBDC, the administration is doubling down on a free-market approach to digital currency innovation while protecting against what it views as government overreach into the private financial lives of its citizens.
Legislative Actions
GENIUS Act and STABLE Act
Congress has made considerable headway on legislation designed to regulate stablecoins. The GENIUS Act has officially passed the Senate, marking a historic step toward comprehensive stablecoin oversight. The act focuses on introducing rigorous standards for payment stablecoins including mandatory asset-backing requirements, clear disclosures to consumers, and transparent marketing practices. After passing the Senate vote, it proceeds to the House for next steps.
The STABLE Act is currently in the House, and was recently advanced by the House Financial Services Committee. It proposes an even broader regulatory regime, including licensing requirements for stablecoin issuers and ongoing federal oversight. The Act envisions a supervisory structure akin to what exists for traditional banks, thereby integrating stablecoins more fully into the existing financial system.
BITCOIN Act
The BITCOIN Act was introduced to provide legislative backing for the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. It outlines the structure and governance of the reserve, calling for transparent management practices and regular public disclosures. Additionally, the bill stipulates that any operational costs related to the reserve will be funded through the Federal Reserve System, ensuring that taxpayers are not burdened. This act underscores Congress’s recognition of Bitcoin as a strategic asset and a new form of financial infrastructure.
Digital Asset Market Clarity Act
The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act seeks to resolve longstanding ambiguity over the regulatory classification of digital assets. The House Financial Services and Agriculture Committees both recently advanced the CLARITY Act. The Act is now officially on the House floor. A vote among all Representatives is the next step. If it passes, it will head to the Senate. Overall, the act is designed to propose a taxonomy to distinguish between different types of digital assets, such as payment tokens, utility tokens, and investment tokens, thereby clarifying which regulatory bodies have oversight. This move is designed to reduce uncertainty for businesses and investors alike, paving the way for responsible innovation while protecting consumers.
Regulatory Shifts
SEC Enforcement Actions
In a marked shift, the SEC dropped enforcement actions against major crypto platforms such as Coinbase, signaling a broader move away from the “regulation by enforcement” model. For years, businesses have criticized the SEC for failing to provide clear rules and opting instead to pursue enforcement actions after the fact. Recent developments – such as the SEC’s crypto working group and the roundtables it hosts – signal a pivot toward more substantive policymaking. This policy change reflects an acknowledgment that innovation cannot thrive in an environment dominated by uncertainty and legal risk.
Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU)
Recognizing the need for specialized regulatory oversight, the SEC launched the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU). This new unit focuses on monitoring risks and trends specific to digital assets, blockchain-based financial products, and related technologies. CETU aims to facilitate a more nuanced and informed regulatory approach, ensuring that oversight keeps pace with technological innovation while avoiding stifling progress through overly broad regulations.
Other Notable Developments
SEC Rescinds Crypto Asset Safeguarding Guidance
In a move to reduce operational complexity, the SEC rescinded previous guidance on the safeguarding of crypto assets by regulated entities. The rescission eases the compliance burden on banks and financial institutions that provide custody services for digital assets, opening the door for greater institutional participation in the crypto markets.
AML/CFT Requirements
Despite broader regulatory shifts, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) requirements remain firmly in place. Crypto businesses must continue to implement robust compliance programs to detect and prevent illicit activities. This persistent focus highlights the balance policymakers seek to strike between fostering innovation and maintaining the integrity and security of the financial system.
As we look ahead, these foundational actions will shape not only the domestic crypto ecosystem but also influence global standards and practices, setting the tone for the next generation of financial innovation. The United States is not just participating in the global digital economy – it is actively defining it. With strategic reserves, clear regulatory frameworks, and a renewed commitment to innovation, the groundwork is being laid for a more resilient, transparent, and competitive financial future. Stay tuned – the future of digital finance is being written now.
