Regulation & Policy
Global regulatory and policy developments affecting crypto and digital assets. Each article is summarised by AI into a factual overview of 50 words or fewer.

Trump Appoints Jay Clayton to Lead AI Initiative Amid Ripple Lawsuit
Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton, known for suing Ripple, has been appointed by Trump to spearhead the AI initiative.
Three Bitcoin and Ether Futures Funds Approved for SEC Listing
Three leveraged Bitcoin and Ether futures funds have successfully passed the SEC's listing requirements, paving the way for their launch in the market.
Japan imposes sanctions on Garantex amid ongoing Ukraine conflict
Japan has added Garantex to its sanctions list against Russia due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Japan imposes sanctions on Garantex, freezing assets of crypto exchange
Japan has sanctioned the cryptocurrency exchange Garantex, freezing its assets due to its involvement in $96 billion worth of crypto transactions.

American Bankers File Lawsuit Against OCC Over Crypto Bank Charters
A group of American bankers has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, contesting the issuance of crypto bank charters to companies like Coinbase and Circle.
Philippine court freezes 25 crypto wallets and 86 bank accounts in investigation
A Philippine court has ordered the freezing of 25 cryptocurrency wallets and 86 bank accounts as part of an investigation into flood control projects. The action aims to prevent the potential dissipation of funds linked to the probe.
Russia's Finance Ministry pays wages using digital rubles for the first time
The Russian Finance Ministry has made its first wage payments in digital rubles, marking a significant step in the country's digital currency initiative.
Arizona Stops IVT Media Group's Unregistered Stablecoin Offering
The Arizona regulator has halted an unregistered stablecoin offering by IVT Media Group, citing compliance issues with state securities laws.

Community Bankers File Lawsuit Against OCC Over Crypto Trust Charters
The Independent Community Bankers of America have initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency regarding the issuance of national trust charters to cryptocurrency firms.
Bankers challenge OCC trust-bank rule utilised by cryptocurrency firms
A group of bankers has filed a lawsuit to overturn a rule by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency that allows cryptocurrency firms to operate as trust banks.
US Banking Group Files Lawsuit Against OCC Over Crypto Trust Bank Approvals
A US banking group has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency following a series of approvals for crypto trust banks. The lawsuit challenges the regulatory decisions made by the OCC.
SEC Approves First 3x Leveraged Bitcoin and Ether Exchange-Traded Products
The SEC has approved the first exchange-traded products (ETPs) that offer 3x leverage on Bitcoin and Ether, marking a significant development in cryptocurrency investment options.
ESMA suggests halting EU custody for non-compliant stablecoins
The European Securities and Markets Authority has proposed ending custody and transfer services for stablecoins that do not comply with EU regulations.

Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton May Be Considered for White House AI Position
Jay Clayton, known for his role in the XRP lawsuit, is reportedly under consideration for a position related to artificial intelligence in the White House.
ICBA Files Lawsuit Against OCC Regarding Crypto Trust Bank Charters
The Independent Community Bankers of America has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency over the issuance of charters for crypto trust banks.
Circle Advocates for Easing EU Bank Deposit Regulations on Stablecoins
Circle has called on the European Union to reconsider stringent bank deposit requirements for stablecoins, arguing that such regulations could hinder innovation in the digital currency sector.
Community banks file lawsuit against OCC over crypto trust bank charters
A group of community banks has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency regarding the issuance of trust bank charters to cryptocurrency firms.
US Treasury Sanctions Hamas Financing Network Involved in Crypto Transactions
The US Treasury has sanctioned a network that facilitated $2 million in funding for Hamas through cryptocurrency. This action aims to disrupt financial support for the group.
SEC approves 3x leveraged Bitcoin and Ether ETPs, trading delayed
The SEC has approved exchange-traded products (ETPs) for 3x leveraged Bitcoin and Ether. However, trading of these products will not commence immediately.
New SEC Crypto Regulations Impact Small Advisers More Than Large Firms
Recent SEC rules on cryptocurrency are seen as a challenge for smaller advisory firms, while larger firms may benefit from the changes.
ICBA files lawsuit against OCC regarding crypto trust charters
The Independent Community Bankers of America has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency over concerns related to the regulation of crypto trust charters.
ICBA Files Lawsuit Against OCC Regarding Crypto Trust Charters
The Independent Community Bankers of America has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency over the issuance of crypto trust charters.
Bank group files lawsuit against U.S. regulator over crypto trust charters
A bank group has initiated legal action against a U.S. regulator for issuing charters to cryptocurrency trusts, challenging the regulatory framework governing digital assets.
Bitpanda co-CEO: MiCA boosts trust in regulated crypto firms among users
According to Bitpanda's co-CEO, the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation has increased retail users' trust in regulated cryptocurrency exchanges across Europe.
Aave Founder Cautions Against EU MiCA Review Impacting DeFi Access
Aave's founder has expressed concerns that the ongoing review of the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation could impose restrictions on access to decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms.
Circle Opposes MiCA's Requirement for Bank Deposits on Stablecoins
Circle has voiced its objections to the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, specifically regarding the mandate that stablecoins must be backed by bank deposits.
Stand With Crypto Supports Bipartisan Candidates After Senate Bill Setback
Stand With Crypto has endorsed a bipartisan group of candidates following the failure of a Senate bill aimed at regulating cryptocurrency.
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce resigns after eight years in office
Hester Peirce, known for her support of cryptocurrency regulation, has announced her resignation from the SEC after eight years, marking a significant change in the agency's approach to digital asset oversight.
SEC plans additional crypto regulatory proposals following custody rule changes
The SEC has indicated it will introduce more regulatory proposals for the cryptocurrency sector after revising its custody rules. This move aims to enhance oversight and compliance within the rapidly evolving digital asset market.
Community bankers file lawsuit against OCC regarding crypto trust charters
A group of community bankers has initiated legal action against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency over its issuance of charters for cryptocurrency trusts.
SEC Proposes New Rules for Fund Custody of Cryptocurrency Assets
The SEC has proposed regulations that may alter the way investment funds manage and safeguard cryptocurrency assets, aiming to enhance investor protection and market integrity.
Hester Peirce departs SEC after eight years influencing crypto regulations
Hester Peirce, known for her role in shaping cryptocurrency policy, has left the SEC after eight years of service.
Treasury Releases GENIUS Act Regulations for State Stablecoin Certification
The US Treasury has issued rules under the GENIUS Act to establish a certification process for state-level stablecoins, aiming to enhance regulatory clarity and promote innovation in the digital currency sector.
Jay Clayton, potential AI czar, led SEC's crypto regulation efforts
Jay Clayton, a candidate for the role of AI czar, was instrumental in the SEC's enforcement actions against cryptocurrency, shaping the regulatory landscape for digital assets.
Bitpanda CEO discusses MiCA's impact on retail trust in crypto firms
The CEO of Bitpanda stated that the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation enhances trust among retail investors in regulated cryptocurrency firms.
SEC's Crypto Custody Regulations Spark Debate Over Asset Coverage
The SEC is intensifying its scrutiny of cryptocurrency custody, leading to a contentious discussion regarding the coverage of digital assets under existing regulations.
Illinois Proposes Six-Month Delay on Crypto Tax Pending Court Approval
Illinois has agreed to a six-month delay on implementing a new cryptocurrency tax, contingent upon court approval.
Bitcoin Price Reaches $87,000 Amid SEC's Institutional Custody Developments
Bitcoin's price has surged to $87,000 as the SEC takes steps to unlock institutional custody options.
Former SEC Chair to be Appointed as AI Czar
The former Chair of the SEC, who previously sued Ripple, is set to be named the new AI Czar.
Circle calls on EU to amend stablecoin reserve regulations in MiCA review
Circle has urged the European Union to reconsider its stablecoin reserve requirements during the ongoing review of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation.
Bitcoin's $113,000 Case Gains Momentum Amid US Regulatory Actions
Recent actions by US regulators on nine cryptocurrency matters may bolster Bitcoin's case for reaching $113,000.
Polymath and CineCity Launch Regulated Tokenised Film Investment Platform
Polymath and CineCity have partnered to create a regulated platform for tokenised film investments, aiming to enhance accessibility and transparency in the film financing sector.
Hester Peirce Resigns from SEC After Key Role in US Crypto Policy
Hester Peirce, a prominent figure in US cryptocurrency regulation, has left her position at the SEC. She played a significant role in shaping the agency's approach to digital assets during her tenure.
US Judge Dismisses Class Action Lawsuit Against Libra Crypto's Kelsier
A US judge has dismissed a class action lawsuit against Kelsier, a company associated with the Libra cryptocurrency, citing insufficient grounds for the case.
SEC Proposes New Framework for Cryptocurrency Custody
The SEC has unveiled a proposed framework aimed at enhancing the custody of cryptocurrencies by financial institutions, focusing on safeguarding client assets and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
South Korea progresses with tokenised securities regulations for 2027 implementation
South Korea is advancing its regulatory framework for tokenised securities, aiming for a rollout in 2027. The new rules are designed to enhance the country's financial market and promote innovation in digital assets.
SEC Proposes Allowing Advisers and Funds to Self-Custody Crypto Assets
The SEC has proposed a rule enabling investment advisers and funds to self-custody cryptocurrency assets, potentially changing the landscape for digital asset management.
Fiserv Introduces Roughrider Coin Settlement on Solana Blockchain
Fiserv has launched the Roughrider Coin settlement system on the Solana blockchain, aiming to enhance transaction efficiency and speed in digital payments.
SEC takes steps to resolve custody issues for crypto advisers
The SEC is working to address custody challenges faced by financial advisers who wish to offer cryptocurrency services, aiming to streamline compliance and enhance investor protection.
Binance Faces EU Review for Ongoing Operations After MiCA Deadline Miss
The European Union is reviewing Binance's operations following its failure to meet the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations. This scrutiny could impact the exchange's future in the EU market.

SEC Proposes New Custody Rules for Bitcoin Amid Regulatory Lag
The SEC acknowledges that its regulation has not kept pace with Bitcoin developments and has proposed new custody rules to address this issue.
New York and Wyoming Collaborate on 6-Month Crypto Licensing Fast Track
New York and Wyoming have announced a partnership aimed at establishing a six-month fast track for cryptocurrency licensing, streamlining the regulatory process for crypto businesses.

SEC Proposes New Regulations for Cryptocurrency Custody
The SEC has proposed new rules aimed at enhancing the custody of cryptocurrencies, focusing on investor protection and regulatory compliance.
Trump to host third exclusive memecoin event amid corruption allegations
Donald Trump is set to host a third exclusive event focused on memecoins, despite ongoing corruption claims against him.
ESMA seeks authority to freeze crypto assets and block fraudulent sites
The European Securities and Markets Authority has called for enhanced powers in its review of the Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation to enable freezing of crypto assets and blocking of fraudulent websites.
SEC Proposes New Rules for Advisers and Funds on Cryptocurrency Holdings
The SEC has proposed regulations aimed at clarifying how financial advisers and investment funds can manage and hold cryptocurrency assets.
SEC proposes new rules for crypto custody by investment advisers and funds
The SEC has unveiled a proposal aimed at establishing new custody rules for investment advisers and funds dealing with cryptocurrencies, furthering its regulatory agenda for digital assets.
SEC Proposes Self-Custody Option for Investment Advisers in Crypto
The SEC has proposed a new rule allowing investment advisers to self-custody client cryptocurrency assets, aiming to enhance regulatory clarity and investor protection in the digital asset space.

Senator Steve Daines Unveils Proposed Cryptocurrency Tax Plan
Republican Senator Steve Daines has released the text of his proposed tax plan for cryptocurrencies, aiming to clarify tax obligations for digital asset transactions.
OFAC Sanctions Tren de Aragua for Laundering ATM Heist Funds via Cryptocurrency
The US Treasury's OFAC has imposed sanctions on the Tren de Aragua network for laundering funds from ATM heists using cryptocurrency.
50,000 Europeans urge EU to relax stablecoin rewards rules in MiCA review
A petition signed by 50,000 Europeans calls on the EU to ease restrictions on stablecoin rewards as part of the ongoing review of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation.
Illinois delays crypto tax implementation amid ongoing industry lawsuit
Illinois has announced a postponement of its cryptocurrency tax implementation due to a lawsuit from industry stakeholders.
OpenZeppelin and T-REX Network launch framework for token regulation
OpenZeppelin and T-REX Network have introduced a new framework aimed at ensuring regulated token eligibility, enhancing compliance in the digital asset space.
OpenZeppelin and T-REX Network Launch Framework for Regulated Tokens
OpenZeppelin and T-REX Network have introduced a new framework aimed at ensuring regulated token eligibility and recovery, enhancing compliance and security in the token ecosystem.
Dogecoin Launches Fully Regulated Perpetual Contracts in the US
Dogecoin has introduced fully regulated perpetual contracts in the United States, expanding its presence in the cryptocurrency market.
UK’s 2027 crypto regulations may hinder business with existing clients
Proposed UK regulations for 2027 could restrict cryptocurrency firms from engaging in new business with their current customers, raising concerns about the impact on the industry.
Illinois Postpones Crypto Tax Implementation Following Industry Lawsuit
Illinois has delayed the introduction of a controversial cryptocurrency tax due to an ongoing lawsuit from industry stakeholders.
New York and Wyoming regulators agree to coordinate on cryptocurrency oversight
Regulators from New York and Wyoming have signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in overseeing cryptocurrency activities, aiming to streamline regulations and improve compliance across state lines.
CLARITY Act fails to pass, yet new crypto regulations emerge for advisors
Despite the failure of the CLARITY Act, new regulations for cryptocurrency advisors have been introduced, impacting how they operate in the financial landscape.
Illinois Postpones Implementation of 0.2% Cryptocurrency Tax
Illinois has agreed to delay the rollout of a 0.2% state tax on cryptocurrency transactions, responding to concerns from stakeholders.
Treasury allows states to seek stablecoin approval ahead of finalised regulations
The US Treasury will permit states to apply for stablecoin approval before completing their regulatory framework, aiming to streamline the process amid ongoing discussions on digital currency governance.

Regulators Accuse Binance of Exploiting Legal Loopholes in Europe
European regulators allege that Binance is using legal loopholes to continue its operations in the region, raising concerns about compliance and regulatory oversight.
Stablecoins pose rapid withdrawal risks for banks and national economies
The rise of stablecoins enables swift capital movement, potentially draining liquidity from banks and impacting national economies. This trend raises concerns about financial stability and regulatory responses.
Senate tax bill allows stablecoin spending, Bitcoin remains on IRS forms
A new Senate tax bill permits the use of stablecoins for transactions, while Bitcoin continues to be required on IRS tax forms. This change aims to clarify the tax treatment of digital currencies.
Illinois postpones crypto tax implementation for six months amid legal disputes
Illinois has agreed to a six-month delay in the enforcement of a new cryptocurrency tax as the industry faces ongoing court challenges.
Lloyds and Visa finish live pilot for stablecoin settlements in the UK
Lloyds, the UK's largest retail bank, and Visa have successfully completed a live pilot for stablecoin settlements, marking a significant step in the adoption of digital currencies in traditional banking.
EU Regulators Investigate Binance's Use of MiCA Exemption
European regulators are examining Binance's operations regarding its use of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) exemption, questioning the legality of its unlicensed activities.
Binance's EU operations under scrutiny for licensing exemption issues
Binance's services in the EU are reportedly facing scrutiny regarding their licensing exemption, as regulatory bodies consider tighter oversight under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.

EU Regulators Examine Binance's Approach to Operating Without a Licence
European regulators are investigating Binance's strategy of entering the market without a licence, amid concerns over compliance with the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation.
Iran plans to increase cryptocurrency use for oil sales amid US sanctions
Iran is set to enhance its use of cryptocurrency for oil transactions as a response to ongoing US sanctions.
US court prevents victims from accessing 127,000 seized Bitcoin
A US court has ruled that victims cannot access 127,000 Bitcoin that were seized, attributing the decision to existing petition rules.

OFAC Sanctions Seven Crypto Wallets Linked to Fugitive and Venezuelan Gang
The US Treasury's OFAC has sanctioned seven cryptocurrency wallets associated with a fugitive on the FBI's Most Wanted list and a Venezuelan criminal gang involved in illicit activities.
Orca's legal chief discusses SEC exemption for DeFi efficiency testing
Orca's chief legal officer stated that the SEC's innovation exemption allows decentralised finance projects to test their efficiency claims without regulatory constraints.
Florida judge rules Fundsz promoters must pay over $30 million for fraud
A Florida judge has ordered promoters of Fundsz to pay more than $30 million in a cryptocurrency fraud case, highlighting the legal repercussions of deceptive practices in the crypto industry.
CFTC aims to classify event contracts as swaps in prediction market debate
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is working to define event contracts as swaps, amid ongoing discussions regarding prediction markets and their regulatory framework.
ESMA seeks greater authority to enforce EU cryptocurrency regulations
The European Securities and Markets Authority has called for expanded powers to enhance the enforcement of cryptocurrency regulations within the EU.
Cboe extends S&P 500 options licence to 2051, explores tokenised options
Cboe has renewed its licence for S&P 500 options until 2051 and is considering the introduction of tokenised options.
Trial Begins for Pokemon Collector in $55 Million Crypto Exploit Case
A federal court has opened the trial for a Pokemon collector accused of a $55 million cryptocurrency exploit.
OFAC Sanctions Tren de Aragua ATM Network and Seven Tron Addresses
The US Treasury's OFAC has sanctioned the Tren de Aragua ATM network and identified seven associated Tron addresses as part of efforts to combat illicit financial activities.
SEC Charges Two Advisors Over $15 Million WhatsApp Crypto Fraud
The SEC has charged two investment advisors for their involvement in a $15 million cryptocurrency fraud scheme conducted via WhatsApp.
AI Agents Using Cryptocurrency Payments May Generate Taxable Events
The rise of AI agents making payments in cryptocurrency could lead to numerous taxable events, raising concerns about tax implications for users and regulators.
Daines Introduces Crypto Tax Bill with Payment Relief and Wash-Sale Provisions
Senator Steve Daines has proposed a new crypto tax bill that aims to provide payment relief while addressing wash-sale rules for digital assets.
Crypto advocacy group reveals congressional endorsements ahead of midterms
A crypto advocacy group has announced its endorsements for candidates in the upcoming US Congress midterms, aiming to support pro-crypto policies.
Illinois Department of Revenue Proposes 0.2% Tax Rate on Cryptocurrency
The Illinois Department of Revenue has released draft rules proposing a 0.2% tax rate on cryptocurrency transactions. This initiative aims to regulate the growing digital currency market within the state.
ESMA Proposes New MiCA Regulations for DeFi Gateways, Staking, and Lending
The European Securities and Markets Authority has proposed new regulations under the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework, focusing on decentralised finance gateways, staking, and lending practices.
UK's 2027 crypto regulations allow firms to remove trust protection from Bitcoin
New UK regulations set for 2027 will permit firms to eliminate trust protections on Bitcoin lent for yield generation.
UK’s FCA begins accepting applications for crypto firms under new rules
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK has opened applications for cryptocurrency firms under a new regulatory framework aimed at enhancing oversight and compliance in the sector.

Dutch Government to Implement Capital Gains Tax on Bitcoin from 2028
The Dutch government plans to introduce a capital gains tax on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies starting in 2028, aiming to regulate the growing digital asset market.

