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HomeNewsUS Senate Overturns SEC Cryptocurrency Rule: What You Need to Know

US Senate Overturns SEC Cryptocurrency Rule: What You Need to Know

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  • Bipartisan support for the decision indicates a potential shift in the regulation of digital assets.
  • Critics argue that the rule hampers innovation and regulated financial institutions’ capacity.

The US Senate voted 60 to 38 to overturn a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rule that previously prohibited regulated financial entities from holding cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This resolution, known as H.J. Res. 109, highlights a potential shift in the regulatory framework governing digital assets.

The rule in question, Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 121, had mandated that banks holding crypto assets list them as liabilities. Critics, including Michael Saylor, co-founder of MicroStrategy, have argued that this requirement unfairly hindered banks’ ability to offer custodial services for cryptocurrencies.

“Wall Street wants Bitcoin, the House of Representatives wants Bitcoin, and now the Senate wants Bitcoin,” he posted on the X social media network. 

 

“There is no economic rationale for holding capital against assets a firm does not own, and it was clearly done simply to block regulated financial entities from providing custodial services,” he said

The Senate’s decision comes after the House of Representatives also showed support for overturning the rule, with a vote of 228 to 182. This bipartisan approval in both chambers suggests a growing recognition of the need to adapt regulatory approaches to the burgeoning field of digital assets.

Schumer on May 1. Photo: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, alongside several Democrats and the majority of Republicans, supported the repeal. This broad consensus reflects a keen interest in fostering a more accommodating regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies.

Robert Leshner, of Compound Labs, regards this legislative action as just the beginning of a series of favorable developments for the cryptocurrency industry. The Digital Chamber, a major blockchain trade association, expressed its delight over the Senate’s decision, indicating a significant industry milestone.

Austin Campbell, founder of Zero Knowledge Consulting, criticized the SEC’s unilateral implementation of SAB 121. He highlighted that it posed unnecessary burdens on regulated firms, benefiting non-regulated custodians instead.

Campbell stressed that there was no economic justification for the SEC’s initial stance, which only served to obstruct traditional financial institutions from providing cryptocurrency services.

Looking ahead, the resolution now awaits President Joe Biden’s approval. Despite the overwhelming support from Congress, the White House has hinted at possible concerns. The administration might veto the measure, citing disruptions to the SEC’s efforts in safeguarding investors in the crypto-asset markets.

The industry’s response to the Senate’s vote has been overwhelmingly positive, with many stakeholders viewing it as a crucial step towards integrating cryptocurrencies into mainstream financial services. However, the final outcome depends on the President’s decision, which remains uncertain.

This legislative activity signals a broader acceptance of digital currencies and the need for regulatory frameworks that can keep pace with technological advancements. While the potential for a presidential veto looms, the bipartisan support for the bill underscores a significant shift towards embracing the possibilities that cryptocurrencies offer.

Disclaimer: ETHNews does not endorse and is not responsible for or liable for any content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products, or other materials on this page. Readers should do their own research before taking any actions related to cryptocurrencies. ETHNews is not responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods, or services mentioned.
Isai Alexei
Isai Alexei
As a content creator, Isai Alexei holds a degree in Marketing, providing a solid foundation for the exploration of technology and finance. Isai's journey into the crypto space began during academic years, where the transformative potential of blockchain technology was initially grasped. Intrigued, Isai delved deeper, ultimately making the inaugural cryptocurrency investment in Bitcoin. Witnessing the evolution of the crypto landscape has been both exciting and educational. Ethereum, with its smart contract capabilities, stands out as Isai's favorite, reflecting a genuine enthusiasm for cutting-edge web3 technologies. Business Email: [email protected] Phone: +49 160 92211628
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