U.S. Crypto Regulation Sets Stage for Key Policy Decisions in 2026

• 2026 U.S. crypto regulation centers on resolving SEC–CFTC oversight through the pending CLARITY Act debate.
• GENIUS Act stablecoin rules move toward implementation as Treasury and FDIC finalize frameworks.
• Federal innovation exemptions and new state laws add layered compliance across U.S. crypto markets.

The U.S. crypto sector is entering 2026 with several regulatory move scheduled that are expected to define oversight, compliance requirements, and institutional participation. Multiple federal and state-level actions are scheduled throughout the year, with lawmakers and regulators focusing on jurisdictional clarity, stablecoin regulations, and experimental frameworks for digital asset firms.

Early in the year, attention is expected to return to legislation designed to clarify regulatory authority in the crypto market. A central issue remains whether certain segments of the industry should fall under the supervision of the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

The Senate Banking Committee has scheduled a discussion on the CLARITY Act for January 15, a move that could set the stage for a potential Senate floor debate later in the first half of 2026. While the bill advanced in the previous year, it had not been finalized as of late December, leaving oversight responsibilities unresolved.

Stablecoin Framework Nears Implementation

Another major development involves the GENIUS Act, which was passed in mid-2025, establishing a federal framework for payment-focused stablecoins. Although the law is already in place, implementation has faced delays. The U.S. Treasury has requested public feedback on proposed rules, and analysts expect formal regulations to be announced in early 2026.

Other agencies have also taken steps in this area. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has outlined conditions under which bank subsidiaries may issue stablecoins, signaling coordination across federal regulators as implementation approaches.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has indicated that it intends to introduce an “innovation exemption” in January 2026. The initiative would allow crypto startups to test new products under reduced regulatory requirements for a limited period, providing a controlled environment for experimentation while maintaining oversight.

Leadership Changes and State-Level Measures

In May, attention will turn to the Federal Reserve, as Chair Jerome Powell’s term is set to expire. President Donald Trump is expected to nominate a successor during the year.

At the state level, California is preparing to implement a new Digital Financial Assets law on July 1, which will require firms serving residents to obtain licenses. Texas has also established a state-managed Bitcoin reserve fund, with direct purchases planned to begin in 2026. Similar proposals are under consideration in states including Arizona and New Hampshire.

By August 2026, new cryptocurrency tax rules are scheduled to take effect, covering staking, lending, and certain small transactions, adding another compliance layer for market participants.