Search Results for: Kristin Smith

The Blockchain Association, a leading crypto trade association, continues to face skepticism and regulatory hurdles despite its five-year existence. With progress impeded by the fall of FTX and reduced support from congress members, the association’s efforts to pass comprehensive crypto legislation remain unsuccessful. Notwithstanding these setbacks, it has managed some victories in mitigating impacts of proposed regulations and supporting member companies. However, the future still presents significant obstacles, and crypto lobbyists are urged to remain humble about their “achievements.”

“The United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is proposing new tax policies for the sale/exchange of digital assets by brokers, attracting criticism from crypto figures. Meanwhile, Gemini, a cryptocurrency exchange, faces a SEC lawsuit on potential regulatory violations. These developments reflect the ongoing struggle to balance regulation with innovation in the emerging field of cryptocurrency.”

The US Treasury and IRS propose new regulations making digital asset brokers accountable for reporting certain sales and exchanges. This move aims to simplify tax calculations, bring digital asset tax reporting on par with securities, and prevent tax evasion. Critics, however, see this as an attempt at excessive government control, potentially stifling the growth of decentralization and web3 adoption.

The US IRS has issued draft guidelines on reporting rules for digital asset brokers. Aimed at regulating the digital asset industry, this regulation intends to streamline tax reporting and prevent fraud, proposing to raise $28 billion in fresh tax over a decade. Critics label it as “misguided” and “an attack on the digital asset ecosystem.”

The U.S. Treasury Department’s proposed digital assets tax rules have sparked controversy within the crypto community. The debate revolves around the feasibility of regulating decentralized operations and potential implications for wallet vendors, decentralized exchanges, and smart contract systems. Nonetheless, a clear taxation path might facilitate easier engagement with digital assets.

“The FIT Act marks the premiere of crypto-focused legislative efforts gaining traction in U.S. Congress. This signals mutual agreement about the significance of the digital assets sector, addressing the inadequacy of the current regulatory system, and fostering innovation. Policymakers are establishing a suitable framework for the rapidly evolving crypto industry.”

Senator Jack Reed introduced a bill to strengthen Know Your Customer and Anti-Money Laundering regulations within decentralized finance. Meanwhile, two House committees proposed a bill to clarify regulatory authorities’ jurisdiction over digital commodities. Despite opposition, these developments highlight the need for clearer DeFi regulations and could shape its future trajectory.

The recently introduced US Senate bill, Crypto-Asset National Security Enhancement Act (CANSEE), targets the DeFi sector with the aim of curbing money laundering. However, its ambiguous definition of ‘control’ over DeFi protocol and potential infringement on software developers’ rights have led to widespread disapproval.

The House Financial Services Committee discussed regulation of digital asset markets, focusing on crypto market structure and stablecoin regulation. Aaron Kaplan, CEO of Prometheum, stated that existing securities laws suffice for crypto regulation, echoing SEC Chair Gary Gensler’s viewpoint. However, some argue that the SEC’s current approach doesn’t provide a clear path for crypto exchanges.

The Blockchain Association challenges the SEC’s proposed exchange definition change, arguing that it discriminates against decentralized protocols, imposes greater burdens on distributed ledger technology-based companies, and may drive innovation away from the US. The proposal raises concerns about fair notice, constitutionality, and violation of the Administrative Procedures Act.

The SEC extended the comments period for amending Rule 3b-16, facing criticism from the Blockchain Association and Republican committee members for its potential negative impact on the crypto industry. Opponents argue that the proposal’s broad language could capture a wide range of individuals, exceeding the agency’s authority and raising constitutional concerns.

The recent SEC lawsuit against Binance and Coinbase has sparked debate in the crypto community, with some criticizing the regulatory body’s approach as “unacceptable” and “lazy.” Concerns include driving crypto companies away from the US, uncertainty in rules and guidance, and potential weakening of consumer confidence in cryptocurrencies. Efforts are ongoing to develop effective regulations.

The Blockchain Association supports Coin Center’s lawsuit against the US Treasury over its sanctions against Tornado Cash, arguing that the sanction raises regulatory and constitutional concerns. The case outcome could set a precedent for privacy-protecting services in the digital asset industry, emphasizing the need to balance financial security and individual privacy.

The Blockchain Association has backed Coin Center’s lawsuit against the Treasury Department and OFAC, arguing that sanctions against Tornado Cash hinder Americans’ ability to transact privately on the Ethereum network. They stress that regulatory actions should target malicious actors, not technology, acknowledging the legitimate uses for privacy-enhancing tools like Tornado Cash. This lawsuit highlights the critical balance between innovation, privacy, and regulation in the evolving blockchain future.