Trump Treasury Signals Major Shift on Crypto Regulation

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the Trump administration will prioritize digital assets under strict U.S. regulatory and AML standards.

Trump Treasury Signals Major Shift on Crypto Regulation as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent outlined a new direction for digital assets policy.

He said the administration plans to prioritize the sector while enforcing strict regulatory and AML standards.

The remarks point to a structured approach aimed at bringing crypto activity back to the United States.

Bessent Says U.S. Will Prioritize Digital Assets

Scott Bessent said the administration is “going big on digital assets.” He stated that prior policies pushed parts of the industry offshore.

He added that the goal now is to support growth within U.S. borders.

BESSENT: WE’RE GOING BIG ON DIGITAL ASSETS

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the Trump administration is making digital assets a priority — and that the prior approach pushed the industry offshore.

His message wasn’t deregulation at any cost. It was the opposite: apply the… pic.twitter.com/e0O5Wj1VlI

— CryptosRus (@CryptosR_Us) February 16, 2026

Bessent explained that the strategy does not mean removing oversight. Instead, he said the focus is on applying the highest U.S. regulatory standards.

These standards include strict anti-money laundering requirements. He noted that clear federal rules can encourage firms to operate domestically.

He also said that companies need certainty before committing long-term capital. The message centered on structure rather than relaxed supervision.

Focus on Regulation and AML Compliance

Bessent stressed that digital assets should meet the same standards as traditional finance.

He said strong AML enforcement will remain in place. He added that compliance is necessary for market stability.

Bessent stated that institutions avoid areas with unclear rules. He said large investors allocate funds where legal frameworks are defined.

Clear standards, he explained, reduce uncertainty for regulated entities. The Treasury’s position links support for innovation with strict oversight.

Bessent said the approach aims to integrate digital assets into the U.S. financial system. He described regulation as a foundation for growth, not a barrier.

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Policy Shift Aims to Bring Industry Onshore

The administration’s stance signals a move from limiting access to structured integration.

Bessent said earlier actions drove companies to other jurisdictions. He indicated that updated policies may encourage firms to return.

He explained that capital tends to follow regulatory clarity. When rules are firm and transparent, institutions can manage risk more effectively.

That clarity may attract exchanges, custodians, and asset managers. The Treasury has not released detailed policy proposals yet.

However, Bessent’s comments outline the intended direction. The administration appears focused on combining oversight with domestic industry expansion.