The Crypto Industry's Critical Turning Point: A Call for Unity and Regulatory Maturity

Blockchain Association's new CEO, Summer Mersinger, steps into her role at a pivotal moment, urging the crypto sector to unify in pursuit of clear, forward-looking regulation.

A Defining Moment for Crypto Regulation

This week, I began my tenure as CEO of the Blockchain Association during what may be the most consequential period in crypto policy. After enduring years of regulatory ambiguity and aggressive enforcement, we now face a generational opportunity to establish a clear, innovation-friendly regulatory framework that will shape the digital asset space for years to come.

A rare confluence of factors is creating this opening: a pro-crypto administration, bipartisan support in Congress for stablecoin and market structure legislation, and legal victories that reaffirm the legitimacy of the crypto industry's long-held positions. Meanwhile, institutional adoption accelerates, fueling the demand for clear rules from traditional financial players.

The Importance of Speaking with One Voice

Opportunities in Washington vanish as quickly as they appear. Whether we seize this moment will depend on our industry's ability to unify its message. Fragmentation only empowers restrictive policymaking.

When regulators see a fractured industry advancing competing agendas, they default to restrictive approaches that satisfy no one. But when they encounter sophisticated, unified positions on complex issues, I’ve found that those same regulators engage constructively.

Summer Mersinger

That is the foundation of the Blockchain Association to bring the industry together and ensure our collective voice leads policy discussions. Our past victories, like our unified stand against excessive broker and dealer rules, are proof of what unity can accomplish.

Building on Shared Success

Through collaborative efforts, we have shaped consensus market structure principles and provided a legislative blueprint that balances innovation and consumer protection. These weren’t individual achievements; they were born from prioritizing collective goals over individual gains.

Yet, with growing momentum comes the risk of splintering. Some will chase short-term gains or idealistic policies that lack legal viability. Our adversaries are betting on this that we’ll lose focus just as we're nearing policy success.

Regulatory Experience Matters

As a former CFTC Commissioner, I’ve seen the impact of consistent, credible industry engagement. The policies that endure are those grounded in legal feasibility and public interest, not just theoretical appeal.

This role demands both ambition and discipline. We need comprehensive legislation, knowledgeable regulators, and global coordination not as isolated objectives, but as integrated elements of American leadership in crypto innovation.

A New Era for the Blockchain Association

I am committed to guiding the Blockchain Association back to its core mission convening tough discussions, forging true consensus, and promoting priorities that transcend company boundaries.

Crypto has outgrown its startup phase. We’re not asking for permission we’re negotiating the regulatory frameworks that will drive future growth. The coming 18 months will test our industry’s political maturity and ability to lead with purpose.

The stakes are enormous but so is the opportunity. Let's rise to meet it. Together.