Coinbase CEO: We Opposed Crypto Bill to Protect Consumers
Brian Armstrong told CNBC on Jan. 15, 2026 that Coinbase pulled its backing from a broad digital assets bill after identifying clauses the company believes would damage consumer protections and stifle competition. Armstrong said the decision followed a detailed review of the text and reflects Coinbase’s priority on keeping markets open and safe for users rather than accepting legislation that could entrench incumbents.
The announcement matters because it illustrates growing industry willingness to oppose legislation perceived as favoring dominant players or weakening safeguards. Lawmakers and other firms will likely take note as negotiations continue, since a high-profile withdrawal of support can reshape the bargaining around regulatory clarity, market access, and how exchanges and DeFi projects compete. Coinbase’s stance underscores consumer protection as a central argument in upcoming crypto policy debates.