Key Milestones for U.S. Crypto Regulation in 2026

BlockBeats News, December 31 — Under the push of Trump's second term, U.S. crypto policy has clearly shifted toward a more friendly stance. 2026 is seen as a decisive year, with the following as key milestones:

· January: The Senate is expected to hold hearings on the crypto market structure bill. If passed, it will clarify the regulatory boundaries between the SEC and CFTC; the SEC may also introduce an "innovation exemption" mechanism to lower compliance thresholds for startups.
· May 15: Federal Reserve Chairman Powell's term ends, and Trump may appoint a more dovish candidate, which could benefit crypto assets.
· July 1: California's "Digital Financial Assets Law" takes effect, requiring licenses for institutions conducting crypto business in California.
· July 18: The deadline for supporting regulatory details of the stablecoin "GENIUS Act," covering issuance, capital, and compliance rules.
· August: Crypto tax legislation (including small stablecoin tax exemptions) and CFTC blockchain-related rules are expected to advance.
· November 3: U.S. midterm elections, the results of which may directly impact the direction of crypto legislation and regulation.

The industry generally believes that the U.S. is closer than ever to forming a clear and unified crypto regulatory framework.