Market Momentum Shifts Amid Regulatory Clarification: A Closer Look at Cryptocurrency Developments

**Coinpedia Digest: This Week’s Crypto News Highlights | 19 July, 2025**

The crypto market is abuzz with excitement as we enter the second half of July. The GENIUS Act has become a reality, marking a significant milestone in the regulation of dollar-backed stablecoins. In other major developments, President Trump has announced plans to allow 401(k) investments in crypto, gold, and private equity, while Standard Chartered has become the first global bank to offer regulated spot trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum.

**GENIUS Act: A Turning Point for Stablecoin Regulation**

The GENIUS Act, signed into law by President Trump, brings a much-needed clarity to the stablecoin regulatory landscape. The new rules require stablecoins to be backed by liquid assets like USD and short-term Treasuries, with regular public reserve disclosures.

**Trump Opens 401(k) Plans to Crypto, Gold, and Private Equity**

President Trump has taken a significant step towards financial freedom for Americans. He is expected to sign an executive order this week, paving the way for retirement accounts (401(k)) to include investments in crypto, gold, and private equity. This move comes after Trump’s earlier support for digital assets and relaxation of restrictions on crypto in retirement accounts.

**Standard Chartered Offers Regulated Spot Trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum**

In a groundbreaking development, Standard Chartered has launched regulated spot trading for BTC and ETH. The service is specifically designed for institutional clients and allows them to trade these assets on the same platform they use for traditional currencies. This move marks a significant milestone in the evolution of financial services.

**June Inflation Data: A Mixed Bag**

The recent inflation data, which saw prices rise by 0.3%, has raised concerns about potential rate cuts being delayed until September. Despite this, crypto’s momentum continues to drive price action and investor enthusiasm.

**WazirX Hack Investigation Underway**

Coinpedia is investigating the WazirX hack that occurred earlier this week. A recent tweet from an anonymous user @TOOFAANARMY has sparked concerns about over ₹1,500 crore worth of XRP being moved before the attack. WazirX CEO Nischal Shetty has dismissed claims of direct transfers with Binance.

**Grayscale Commences Process to Go Public**

Grayscale, a well-established crypto investment firm, has confidentially filed a draft registration with the U.S. SEC, indicating plans for an initial public offering (IPO). While details remain undecided, this move could potentially bring in more investors and enhance the company’s role in traditional finance.

**Ethereum Surges to 6-Month High**

The Ethereum price has reached a six-month high, fueled by recent ETF surges and the GENIUS Act.

Source: coinpedia.org