Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Demands Congress Fast-Track Crypto Laws

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Pushes for Bipartisan Crypto Market Clarity Amid Regulatory Shifts

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong is intensifying his campaign for clearer cryptocurrency rules in the United States, signaling what could be the most consequential moment yet for the digital asset industry. After several days of high-level meetings on Capitol Hill, Armstrong says lawmakers are closer than ever to finalizing a bipartisan bill that could reshape how cryptocurrencies are regulated, traded, and built in America.

Armstrong emphasized that the long-debated Digital Asset Market Clarity Act has a “real chance” of passing before the year’s end, potentially ushering in a new era of certainty for investors, developers, and institutions. The bill would delineate which U.S. agencies have jurisdiction over different categories of digital assets—an issue that has plagued the industry for years.

Source: X

According to early drafts, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is expected to gain authority over spot crypto markets, while the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) would oversee securities-related tokens. Such a division could help resolve overlapping and often contradictory regulatory interpretations that have deterred investment and innovation.

A Direct Rebuke of the Gensler Era

Armstrong did not mince words when reflecting on the tenure of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, whose aggressive enforcement-first strategy has long been criticized by industry leaders. Speaking to reporters, Armstrong argued that unclear rules under Gensler’s leadership created an environment of “fear and uncertainty” for innovators, discouraging U.S.-based development while driving blockchain projects overseas.

“The lack of clarity has not only slowed innovation but also put American consumers at risk,” Armstrong said. “This bill represents a chance to build the crypto industry in America, to protect consumers, and to ensure that regulators cannot simply take away rights without clear guidance in the future.”

In an effort to mobilize grassroots support, Armstrong once again urged crypto users to join the “Stand With Crypto” campaign, a movement designed to connect millions of everyday digital asset holders with their elected representatives. By doing so, he argued, lawmakers could see firsthand the widespread public support for a fair and predictable regulatory environment.

Industry Leaders Present a United Front

Armstrong was not the only prominent voice pressing lawmakers. Executives from Ripple, Kraken, Circle, a16z, and Paradigm also joined the Washington discussions, underscoring just how much is at stake. According to insiders, the meetings revealed a surprising level of bipartisan agreement, with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle acknowledging the economic potential of digital assets if regulated properly.

Senator Cynthia Lummis, a longtime supporter of pro-crypto legislation, predicted that the measure could be approved and reach President Donald Trump’s desk before the end of the year. If that timeline holds, it would mark a dramatic acceleration for an industry that has spent years in a cloud of uncertainty.

“This isn’t just about crypto,” one executive told ABC News. “It’s about America’s ability to lead in financial innovation, rather than ceding that role to Europe, Asia, or other jurisdictions moving faster.”

Banking Sector Pressure and Stablecoin Debate

Stablecoins, one of the most widely used applications of blockchain technology, emerged as another flashpoint in Armstrong’s discussions with policymakers. Several U.S. banking groups have raised alarms that interest-bearing stablecoins could threaten the traditional banking system by pulling deposits away from commercial banks. Deposits form the lifeblood of lending, and widespread adoption of yield-bearing digital dollars could challenge how banks fund loans.

Armstrong pushed back on the idea of banning stablecoin yields, pointing to past failed attempts such as the GENIUS Act. He argued that stifling innovation in stablecoins would only drive capital offshore, leaving U.S. consumers and businesses at a disadvantage. “Stablecoins are not the enemy,” Armstrong said. “They are a tool that can strengthen the U.S. dollar’s role globally.”

Federal Reserve’s Rate Cut Adds Momentum

The push for regulatory clarity comes at a pivotal economic moment. On September 17, the Federal Reserve announced a surprise interest rate cut, reducing the target range to 4.0%–4.25%. The move was intended to ease pressure on the slowing labor market, but it also provided an unexpected tailwind for risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.

Source: CMC

As of this week, the global crypto market cap stands at $4.1 trillion, up nearly 1% in just 24 hours. Analysts say that looser monetary policy combined with clearer regulations could unlock a new wave of institutional investment. Lower lending costs would make it easier for startups to raise capital, while regulatory certainty would reduce compliance risks for hedge funds, pension managers, and banks exploring digital assets.

“The timing couldn’t be better,” said one market strategist. “We’re on the verge of a friendlier interest rate environment and a potentially landmark regulatory breakthrough. That combination could reshape the investment landscape for crypto over the next decade.”

The Stakes for U.S. Leadership in Crypto

For Armstrong, the stakes go far beyond Coinbase’s business interests. He has consistently framed the debate as a geopolitical competition, warning that without clear rules, the U.S. risks losing its edge in financial technology.

China, the European Union, and several Middle Eastern countries have already advanced national frameworks for digital assets, leaving U.S. companies to navigate a patchwork of outdated laws. Armstrong argues that passing the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act would not only protect American consumers but also cement the U.S. as the global hub for blockchain innovation.

“If this bill succeeds, America sends a clear message: innovation belongs here,” Armstrong said. “If it fails, we risk watching talent and investment migrate overseas.”

A Critical Few Months Ahead

Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Critics argue that splitting authority between the CFTC and SEC could create fresh turf wars and confusion. Others worry that consumer protections might not go far enough in preventing fraud and market manipulation. Still, the bipartisan nature of the effort has given industry advocates fresh hope.

Armstrong believes that the coming months will be decisive. With support from industry leaders, lawmakers, and a growing grassroots movement, he sees a narrow but real window to establish long-sought clarity.

“This is the moment to act,” Armstrong concluded. “If we succeed, the U.S. can lead the next generation of financial innovation. If we hesitate, the opportunity may pass us by.”

Conclusion

The path forward for cryptocurrency in the U.S. hinges on whether Congress can deliver what the industry has demanded for years: clarity, fairness, and stability. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong’s campaign for the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act reflects a broader recognition that the stakes have never been higher. With bipartisan momentum building, a historic Fed rate cut creating favorable market conditions, and industry leaders uniting in Washington, the next chapter of American crypto policy may soon be written.

If successful, it would mark not only a turning point for Coinbase but also for the entire global digital asset industry—setting the stage for a more secure, innovative, and competitive future.

Writer @Erlin

Erlin is an experienced crypto writer who loves to explore the intersection of blockchain technology and financial markets. She regularly provides insights into the latest trends and innovations in the digital currency space.

 

 Check out other news and articles on Google News

Disclaimer:

The articles published on hokanews are intended to provide up-to-date information on various topics, including cryptocurrency and technology news. The content on our site is not intended as an invitation to buy, sell, or invest in any assets. We encourage readers to conduct their own research and evaluation before making any investment or financial decisions.

hokanews is not responsible for any losses or damages that may arise from the use of information provided on this site. Investment decisions should be based on thorough research and advice from qualified financial advisors. Information on HokaNews may change without notice, and we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the content published.