Breaking news

Understanding the GENIUS Act: Crypto Regulation Explained

The crypto world witnessed a significant milestone as the Senate voted 66-22 to advance the GENIUS Act, a groundbreaking regulatory bill for cryptocurrencies. Notably, this bill aims to manage stablecoins, digital currencies linked to the value of assets like the U.S. dollar, by setting new standards and protections.

While the bill received majority support, some opponents remain concerned. Critics argue that it falls short in addressing potential conflicts of interest and may risk consumer and economic stability. However, proponents see it as a protective measure, ensuring that stablecoin issuers maintain a reserved asset base, thereby securing consumer interests and paving the way for stablecoins’ mainstream integration.

The GENIUS Act not only aims to enforce anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism laws but also prioritizes coin holders for repayment in the event of bankruptcy, marking a potentially transformative era in digital finance.

Supporters, such as Christian Catalini from the MIT Cryptoeconomics Lab, believe it will foster competition and innovation in digital payments by enabling safer and more reliable financial transactions, opening the floodgates for new issuers in the digital currency space.

Cautious voices, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, warn of lenient regulations that could give room for unethical practices, especially given Trump’s involvement in stablecoin dealings. This rings particularly true with recent revelations of World Liberty Financial’s stablecoin transactions linked to Binance investments.

Bank Of England Holds Rates At 3.75% In Split Vote As Inflation Risks Rise

The Bank of England kept its benchmark interest rate at 3.75% on Thursday, but the decision was not unanimous. In a 6-3 vote, the Monetary Policy Committee kept rates unchanged, while three members backed a 25-basis-point increase to 4%. Renewed energy price pressures have added to concerns that inflation could remain elevated.

Inflation Pressures Remain

Policymakers said inflation “is likely to rise further over coming quarters,” citing higher and more volatile crude oil and refined energy prices since the conflict began.

So far, there has been “little evidence” of significant second-round effects, such as broader wage and price increases. Inflation risks, however, are now “tilted to the upside” and have increased since the July Monetary Policy Report.

Energy Prices Add To Inflation Risks

Brent crude has risen 36% since July, reaching $106 a barrel on Sept. 14, while UK wholesale gas prices increased 78% to 207 pence per therm.

Higher energy costs can feed into transport, production and household expenses, raising costs across supply chains. Refinery pressures have also pushed crack spreads, the difference between refined fuel and crude prices, well above pre-conflict levels.

Economy Shows Resilience

Despite the inflation risks, UK economic activity has held up slightly better than the Bank expected. A softer labor market and higher borrowing costs are expected to help reduce inflation over time.

Previous monetary tightening is still working through the economy, according to policymakers. So far, the latest energy shock has not produced clear evidence of a broader wage-price spiral.

Major Central Banks Take Different Paths

The decision comes during a busy period for global monetary policy. The Federal Reserve raised rates Wednesday to 3.75%-4% in its first increase since 2023, while the European Central Bank recently lifted its deposit rate to 2.5%.

The Bank of Japan is due to announce its decision Friday, with markets expecting a rate increase. Thursday’s split vote shows that pressure for tighter policy remains within the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee.

Uol
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
eCredo
Aretilaw firm

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter