In the ever-evolving landscape of digital assets, Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty is making waves with a compelling call to action for Washington. He believes that the window for establishing clear U.S. crypto regulations is closing quickly, urging lawmakers to “finish the job on crypto clarity.” Alderoty’s plea comes at a pivotal moment, as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) prioritizes crypto clarity for the first time, signaling a shift that could mark the dawn of predictable oversight in the digital currency realm.
A Mainstream Issue, Not a Niche Concern
In his op-ed published on RealClearMarkets, Alderoty highlights that the conversation around cryptocurrency should no longer be seen as niche. He points to widespread consumer adoption and a growing demand for regulatory frameworks as evidence that crypto has entered the mainstream. A recent survey by the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) and Harris Poll underscores this shift, revealing that about one in five U.S. adults owns digital currency. Yet, while adoption is rising, so is skepticism. Pew Research reports a significant portion of Americans remain unconvinced about the reliability and safety of current crypto investment and trading methods.
Alderoty also references a YouGov poll indicating that a greater number of Americans are in favor of tighter crypto regulations rather than looser ones. This data suggests that consumers are not only using digital currencies but are also eager for the protection that robust regulatory frameworks can offer. The use of cryptocurrency in the U.S. is vast, with Chainalysis estimates showing over $1 trillion in transactions in 2024 alone, covering everything from routine payments to savings.
The Cost of Inaction
The lack of clear and consistent regulations, Alderoty argues, doesn’t make cryptocurrency disappear. Instead, it drives activity to jurisdictions that are more agile in establishing rules, potentially stifling innovation and economic growth in the U.S. This regulatory uncertainty leaves responsible firms in limbo, unsure of how to proceed in building their operations domestically. For Alderoty, clarity is essential not just for consumer protection but also for providing these businesses the confidence to innovate within the U.S., ensuring that the country remains a leader in shaping future financial infrastructures.
Alderoty, who also serves as president of the NCA, is at the forefront of efforts to enhance crypto literacy and safety. The NCA, launched with a $50 million grant from Ripple, is dedicated to educating the public through comprehensive explainers and user stories. Their polling reveals that most current crypto users are eager to expand their understanding of the technology, further emphasizing the need for clear guidance and education.
A Legislative Crossroads
With Congress contemplating market-structure legislation following this summer’s stablecoin law, Alderoty sees the fall session as a crucial opportunity. The legislative body, he asserts, can seize this moment to demonstrate to Americans that Washington is capable of delivering much-needed clarity in the crypto sector. “The opportunity is in front of us. The mandate is already there,” Alderoty writes, stressing that the time is ripe for action.
He argues that by finalizing the regulatory framework, lawmakers would not only protect consumers but also keep innovation on U.S. soil. This move could position the country as a leader in the burgeoning digital economy, ready to shape the financial systems of tomorrow.
Balancing Regulation and Innovation
While Alderoty’s call for regulatory clarity is clear, the path forward is not without challenges. Critics of stringent regulations worry they could stifle innovation by imposing barriers that are too cumbersome for startups and smaller players. Proponents of a lighter touch argue that the rapid pace of technological advancement in the crypto space requires flexibility that heavy-handed regulation might curtail.
However, Alderoty contends that a balanced approach is possible. By crafting rules that protect consumers while fostering innovation, the U.S. can maintain its competitive edge and encourage responsible growth in the crypto industry. It’s a delicate balance, but one that Alderoty believes is within reach if lawmakers act decisively.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the SEC places crypto clarity at the forefront of its agenda, the stage is set for significant regulatory developments. Alderoty’s message is clear: Congress must act swiftly to provide the regulatory clarity that consumers and businesses alike are calling for. By doing so, the U.S. can ensure that it remains a hub of innovation and leadership in the global financial landscape.
In this critical juncture, Alderoty’s call to “finish the job on crypto clarity” resonates not just with industry insiders but with a public increasingly invested in the future of digital currency. Whether Washington will rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but the need for action is undeniable.
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.
