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ARTICLE · 02 FEBRUARY 2026

Crypto In 2026: The Democratization Of Digital Assets

K&L Gates
K&L Gates
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The year 2025 saw significant regulatory activity in the realm of digital assets.

United StatesTechnology
Sarah V. Riddell
Sarah V. Riddell
Grant F. Butler
Grant F. Butler
Vivian K. Bridges
Vivian K. Bridges

The year 2025 saw significant regulatory activity in the realm of digital assets. The US Congress and financial regulators took steps to create and implement a clear legal framework to facilitate financial transactions using digital assets, and they will continue to do so in 2026. This alert discusses important regulatory developments in relation to digital assets that occurred at the end of 2025 that likely will shape subsequent initiatives in 2026, with a focus on the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC or Commission) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The key theme leading into 2026 is democratization of digital assets—making digital assets accessible to US persons without the fear of imminent enforcement action. During 2026, we expect the SEC and CFTC to provide further guidance to facilitate access to digital assets. In light of the enactment of the GENIUS Act, we also expect further rulemaking initiatives by the US Department of the

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