TLDR
- Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong predicts a positive outcome for the crypto industry, banks, and consumers in ongoing U.S. market structure negotiations.
- Armstrong expresses confidence that a compromise will benefit all parties and help make America the crypto capital of the world.
- Armstrong explains that previous concerns over stablecoin rewards led to discussions but sees a path forward for a win-win solution.
- Armstrong argues that stablecoin rewards are necessary for modernizing the financial system and keeping the U.S. competitive globally.
- Despite Bitcoin’s recent price drop, Armstrong remains optimistic, viewing it as a buying opportunity for Coinbase and its stakeholders.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has expressed optimism over the ongoing negotiations regarding U.S. market structure. Speaking at the World Liberty Forum, Armstrong indicated that a breakthrough is close following weeks of stalled discussions. He emphasized that a balanced resolution would benefit the crypto industry, banks, and American consumers.
Market Structure Progress
At the World Liberty Forum in Mar-a-Lago, Armstrong highlighted positive momentum in the discussions around market structure. He assured the public that a win-win-win outcome is achievable. “I believe we’re going to reach a win-win-win outcome: a win for the crypto industry, a win for the banks, and most importantly, a win for the American consumer,” Armstrong stated.
This renewed optimism comes after intense debates surrounding a provision that could restrict stablecoin rewards. Traditional banks heavily favored this restriction to protect their deposit bases. However, Coinbase has strongly opposed this provision, which led to the bill being derailed.
Coinbase CEO Clarifies Legislative Stance
In a live interview with CNBC, Armstrong elaborated on his stance towards the bill. He clarified that while Coinbase had issues with the original draft, the situation is evolving. “What we did say was the current draft, we had some issues with it,” Armstrong explained. He emphasized that this disagreement caused all parties to return to the negotiating table, opening the door for a potential compromise.
Market structure is making great progress, and I believe we're going to reach a win-win-win outcome.
A win for the crypto industry.
A win for the banks.
And, most importantly, a win for the American consumer. pic.twitter.com/t0WM3XUZX4— Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) February 18, 2026
Armstrong expressed his confidence in finding a solution that benefits all parties. The crypto industry, traditional banks, and consumers would all stand to gain if the right measures are adopted. He also linked this resolution to the broader goal of making America the crypto capital of the world, a vision supported by former President Trump.
The Importance of Stablecoin Rewards
A key point in the ongoing discussions is the issue of stablecoin rewards. Stablecoin issuers want to pass on interest from underlying reserves directly to consumers, a controversial practice. While traditional banks argue this practice could undermine their deposit bases, Armstrong sees it as crucial for modernizing the U.S. financial system.
Armstrong pointed out that 87% of Americans believe the current financial system doesn’t serve them well. “There are too high fees, there are delays, and there’s unequal access,” he remarked. He warned that blocking stablecoin rewards could drive capital offshore and leave the U.S. lagging behind global competitors, especially countries like China.
Despite the legislative hurdles, Armstrong maintains that the smartest banks are already embracing these changes.
“It’s good for Coinbase, it’s good for the crypto industry, but it’s also good for the banking industry to embrace innovation and adoption,” he concluded.
Armstrong Stays Confident Despite Market Volatility
When asked about the recent drop in Bitcoin price, Armstrong remained unfazed. He dismissed the volatility as short-term noise that doesn’t affect the larger goals of crypto legislation. “The markets are a little bit more psychological than that,” he explained, downplaying the connection between the price drop and broader macroeconomic concerns.
Coinbase is using this downturn as an opportunity. “We try not to take a short-term point of view,” Armstrong said. He revealed that Coinbase is actively purchasing Bitcoin and even buying back its own stock as part of its ongoing strategy.
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