Coinbase CEO Seeks ‘Win-Win’ on Market Structure Bill in Davos Charm Offensive

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND – Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong utilized his attendance at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos this year to launch a diplomatic “charm offensive,” aiming to secure political support for a clear and rational U.S. market structure bill for digital assets. Armstrong’s core message centered on achieving a “win-win” scenario, ensuring legislative clarity that benefits both consumers and the crypto industry.

In numerous high-level meetings with global policy makers, financial institutional leaders, and congressional aides, Armstrong stressed the necessity of a bipartisan solution to the regulatory ambiguity currently plaguing the United States. He argued that the current lack of defined rules, particularly concerning the delineation of commodities versus securities in the crypto space, risks driving innovation and capital overseas to jurisdictions with clearer frameworks, such as the European Union.

The proposed “win-win” legislation, which largely aligns with Congressional efforts like the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21), would solidify the roles of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Armstrong emphasized that Coinbase is not seeking exemption from regulation, but rather clear, enforceable rules that allow the company to operate compliantly while ensuring robust consumer protections.

His lobbying effort in Davos is viewed as a strategic move to preempt potential further adversarial action from regulatory bodies like the SEC. By securing support among global financial elites and lawmakers, Coinbase aims to accelerate the legislative process in Congress, establishing a stable domestic regulatory environment that future administrations would find challenging to dismantle. The CEO reiterated that for the U.S. to maintain its lead in the financial technology sector, Congress must move decisively to codify crypto market structure before the next election cycle.

Source: Coinbase CEO Seeks ‘Win-Win’ on Market Structure Bill in Davos Charm Offensive