Eight major cryptocurrency firms are making waves in the United States this year, with plans to expand their operations in what is emerging as a friendlier regulatory environment. This surge of activity marks a significant shift, particularly as these companies, including Nexo, Circle, Binance, and OKX, are betting on clearer rules to drive their U.S. ventures forward under President Trump’s administration.
A New Wave of Crypto Enthusiasm
The return of Nexo to the U.S. market, announced at a Sofia, Bulgaria event on April 28, 2025, symbolizes a broader trend. After leaving the U.S. in 2022 due to regulatory gridlock, Nexo is back with offerings like asset-backed credit lines and crypto savings accounts. Co-founder Antoni Trenchev credits the Trump administration’s crypto-friendly stance, noting, “America is back—and so is Nexo.” This aligns with the recent developments in U.S. legislative circles, as detailed in our article on U.S. Congress Braces for Intense Debate Over Crypto Legislation This Summer.
Meanwhile, Binance.US has resumed USD services, following a tumultuous period marked by lawsuits and settlements. Changpeng Zhao, the former CEO, has sought clemency from President Trump after a series of legal battles, including a $4.3 billion fine and a prison sentence settlement in 2023. Despite these challenges, Binance is pushing ahead, banking on regulatory clarity to stabilize its U.S. operations.
IPOs and Strategic Moves
Circle is making headlines with its decision to relocate its headquarters to New York City, ahead of a planned IPO. The company filed for its initial public offering on April 1 and aims to list on the New York Stock Exchange, with JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup as lead underwriters. CEO Jeremy Allaire highlighted the significance of the move, stating it symbolizes the trust and stability Circle is building as a key player in future finance.
Similarly, eToro is eyeing a U.S. IPO on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, seeking a $4 billion valuation. After a brush with the SEC in 2024, the platform has streamlined its crypto offerings and is now poised for growth, signaling confidence in the U.S. retail crypto trading landscape.
Compliance and Market Expansion
OKX, another significant player, announced its reentry into the U.S. market in April 2025, following a $500 million settlement with the Department of Justice. The exchange is rolling out a phased plan, with a new regional headquarters in San Jose, California, and a focus on compliance. Roshan Robert, newly appointed head of U.S. operations, emphasized the improving regulatory landscape as a key factor for their return.
Crypto.com is not sitting idly by either. The platform is expanding its U.S. services to include stock and ETF trading, aiming to integrate crypto with traditional finance. This move reflects a broader strategy seen across the industry to blend traditional and digital assets.
The Road Ahead
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), a major venture capital firm, is closing its UK branch to focus on U.S. opportunities, driven by what it perceives as a more favorable regulatory environment under President Trump. This move underscores a broader industry trend of shifting investments and operations back to the U.S., as highlighted by Trump’s Crypto Sherpa Bo Hines Says Crypto Legislation on Target for Quick Completion.
Coinbase’s recent acquisition of crypto derivatives platform Deribit for $2.9 billion further cements its position as a leader in the derivatives market. This strategic purchase aligns with the exchange’s ambition to dominate globally, as seen by its international derivatives exchange’s significant trading volume.
As these firms navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, questions linger about the sustainability of this trend. Will regulatory clarity continue to favor crypto expansion? And how will these changes impact everyday investors? The unfolding developments in the U.S. crypto market suggest a dynamic year ahead, filled with opportunities and challenges alike.
Source
This article is based on: 8 major crypto firms announce US expansion this year
Further Reading
Deepen your understanding with these related articles:
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- US crypto groups urge SEC for clarity on staking
- Crypto Coalition Tells SEC Staking Is ‘Essential Good,’ Not a Security
Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
