SEC Launches Project Crypto to Enhance Cryptocurrency Regulation

Ripple has been invited to a White House summit on digital asset policy, marking a rare seat at top-level U.S. policymaking. The appearance is being read as a sign of growing regulatory engagement for XRP and the crypto industry.

Senator Elizabeth Warren called for an investigation after reports linked the UAE intelligence chief to a covert investment in a U.S. crypto firm, a deal media labeled Trump’s 'Spy Sheikh' arrangement. She said the report raises urgent national-security and regulatory concerns about foreign influence in American crypto markets.

Latam-focused neobank Nu has received conditional approval to establish a U.S. national bank, Nubank N.A., after building a customer base of more than 127 million. The milestone opens a pathway into the U.S. market while Nu completes regulatory requirements.

The SEC has suspended decisions on crypto ETF applications as a possible U.S. government shutdown threatens agency staffing and operations. The move heightens uncertainty for spot Bitcoin ETFs and other crypto-linked products, likely delaying approvals and fueling short-term volatility.

Hong Kong on Jan 31, 2026 enacted new rules for stablecoins and tightened overall crypto oversight, calling the sector a “new growth engine.” Regulators say the move creates clearer frameworks for market participants and aims to boost investor protection and market integrity.