Recent regulatory events affecting crypto markets
Recent regulatory events affecting crypto markets in 2025 center around efforts globally, especially in the US and Africa, to provide clearer legal frameworks and enhance investor protections. In the US, the landmark GENIUS Act was signed into law in July 2025, establishing the first comprehensive federal regulatory framework for stablecoins. This law defines stablecoins as payment tools distinct from securities and national currencies, mandates 1:1 backing by liquid assets such as US dollars or Treasury bills, and enforces transparency through regular audits and reports. Complementing this, other bills like the CLARITY Act and Anti-CBDC Act are progressing through Congress, aiming to distinguish between digital commodities and securities, and to prevent the Federal Reserve from issuing central bank digital currencies without congressional approval. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has also released a spring 2025 regulatory agenda focusing on potential rules around di...