US Regulatory Shift Ignites Web3 Growth

The landscape for Web3 businesses in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation. Over the past six months, the US has seen a remarkable shift, positioning itself as a prime hub for blockchain innovation, startup expansion, and capital formation. This change is fueled by a more accommodating regulatory environment, attracting both founders and investors.

What’s Driving This Boom?

A wave of new bills and acts are clearing the House, primarily designed to clarify the regulation of virtual assets. A key development is the proposed division of oversight between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). This aims to provide much-needed clarity for startups and investors, streamlining the path to compliance while fostering innovation.

This newfound regulatory certainty is prompting many founders and high-profile ventures that had previously left the US market to return. Companies like OKX are re-establishing their presence in the US, and others such as Deribit and Crossover Markets are also planning operations in the country.

A Golden Era for Crypto Businesses

The data speaks for itself: seed rounds for Web3 infrastructure, AI-integrated blockchain platforms, Real World Assets (RWAs), and tokenized finance startups are closing rapidly, often becoming oversubscribed. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, blockchain-based startups raised an impressive $4.8 billion – the highest amount since late 2022. The market’s “thaw” is undeniable, and investors are keenly observing.

The current administration is actively refining policies for digital assets and adjusting its perspective on the cryptocurrency sector. This includes opening dialogues with major players and fintech leaders to craft a national crypto strategy that is both pro-business and globally competitive.

The Broader Impact

New policies are even expanding the definition of “dealers” to include certain DeFi participants, emphasizing that regulation will now involve more dialogue and less sudden imposition. Recent testimonies from the leadership of the SEC and CFTC before Congress indicate a willingness to cooperate within the framework of new and upcoming legislation, signaling a more collaborative approach.

This cooperative stance has quickly translated into tangible ecosystem growth: founders are building, funds are deploying, and regulators are observing with a more open mind. While some privacy advocates express concerns about decentralization, and others fear a sudden reversal of friendliness, most acknowledge the industry is experiencing renewed activity not seen since before events like Terra and FTX.

Crucially, the crypto sector is no longer a niche topic; it’s increasingly integrated into national economic discussions, with policymakers treating it as a significant component. State governments in Nevada, California, Florida, and Colorado are even piloting Web3 programs across various sectors, from land registries to municipal stablecoins.

The Return of Talent

For years, the US experienced a “crypto brain drain” as experts sought more welcoming environments. However, this trend has reversed. Major blockchain entities are announcing US headquarters, expansions, or relaunches. The crypto economy is experiencing a comeback, not just in capital, but in talent and essential infrastructure.

Looking Ahead

The coming months are crucial as the sector anticipates further key legislation from the Senate, aiming to provide predictable oversight. This marks an important period for crypto, with innovation thriving across decentralized finance (DeFi), Real World Assets (RWAs), institutional adoption, and payments. The industry’s maturity will be tested by its ability to demonstrate resilience while upholding its core principles.

Despite any challenges, the crypto community has strong reasons for optimism. With growing government support and a clear purpose, first-time founders and investors are moving forward with confidence. While it might not be a full victory lap yet, these developments represent a significant restart for the industry.