In a major development for the crypto industry, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has officially disbanded its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET), following a recent executive order by former President Donald Trump. The move marks a clear shift in Washington’s stance toward digital assets, signaling a reduced regulatory burden and greater support for innovation.
The decision to dissolve the NCET was made in response to Trump’s directive to limit government overreach in the cryptocurrency sector. The executive order called for a focus on fostering growth in digital finance, protecting access to financial services for crypto firms, and halting efforts to develop centralized digital currencies that could compete with decentralized crypto assets.
DOJ officials stated that while they remain committed to combating serious crimes like terrorist financing and organized crime through crypto, they will no longer pursue enforcement actions against platforms such as exchanges or wallet providers for actions taken by individual users.
This approach aligns with broader efforts across government agencies. The SEC has also reassigned over 50 staff from its crypto unit, reflecting the new administration’s focus on deregulation and industry support.
While the move has been welcomed by many in the crypto community, some legal experts and regulators warn it could open the door for increased financial crime. Nonetheless, the message is clear: the U.S. is repositioning itself as a more crypto-friendly nation, prioritizing innovation over regulation.
The full implications of this shift will unfold over time, but for now, the crypto world is celebrating a win in Washington.
