Coinbase CEO Denies White House Withdrawing Support for CLARITY Act

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Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong dismissed claims the White House is backing away from the CLARITY Act, a key crypto legislation effort. The bill, which touches on CFT (Countering the Financing of Terrorism) concerns and stablecoin rules, remains under discussion. The Senate Banking Committee has yet to schedule a markup. Coinbase once opposed changes to DeFi and stablecoin provisions but now says it is working closely with lawmakers.
  • Coinbase denies White House pressure and says talks continue to adjust the CLARITY Act with banks ongoing policy.
  • Stablecoin yield limits drive division as crypto firms warn rules may favor banks over consumers nationwide impact.
  • Lawmakers delay markup as lobbying and deposit risk concerns slow agreement on the crypto market bill process now.

Coinbase leadership has rejected claims that the White House plans to withdraw backing for the CLARITY Act. The denial comes as negotiations around the stalled crypto market structure bill continue in Washington. The legislation has triggered sharp debate across the digital asset sector, banks, and policymakers. Policymakers have stalled formal measures as the negotiations try to overcome the deep rifts.

💥BREAKING:

🇺🇸 COINBASE CEO BRIAN ARMSTRONG DENIES REPORTS THAT THE WHITE HOUSE IS PULLING SUPPORT FOR THE CRYPTO MARKET STRUCTURE BILL.

“THE ADMINISTRATION HAS BEEN SUPER CONSTRUCTIVE.” pic.twitter.com/nU2HoBtk05

— STEPH IS CRYPTO (@Steph_iscrypto) January 18, 2026

The CLARITY Act is supposed to clarify the regulations of crypto markets, stablecoins, and decentralized finance. Though, new draft wording created panic in major sections of the industry. Consequently, Coinbase pulled out its support earlier this week. The move contributed to the speculation of a strained relationship with the Trump administration, which Coinbase leadership denied.

White House Engagement and Ongoing Talks

Coinbase leadership stated that the administration has remained engaged throughout the process. The White House has encouraged discussions between crypto firms and banks. These talks focus on resolving concerns tied to banking interests and consumer protections. Coinbase is now working on several policy ideas designed to support community banks.

The talks are still ongoing with the industry members trying to find the middle ground. The administration has not publicly indicated an abandonment of the bill. On the contrary, leaders have accentuated cooperation and concession. This strategy has eased the market talk of a wider political collapse.

Meanwhile, the Senate Banking Committee delayed the planned markup of the bill. Lawmakers opted to allow more time for revisions. The delay reflects the complexity of aligning financial innovation with existing banking frameworks.

Industry Split Over Stablecoin Yield Rules

The sharpest conflict centers on stablecoin yield distribution. The latest draft bars companies from sharing yield with customers. Many crypto executives argue this provision favors banks. They say it limits consumer returns and restricts competition.

Critics also warn that the restriction could weaken decentralized finance. They believe it undermines tokenized stock trading and related services. Supporters of the bill counter that it brings regulatory clarity. They argue that some limits are necessary for stability.

This divide has fractured industry consensus. Some executives view the bill as progress despite flaws. Others consider it harmful to innovation and consumers. The disagreement has slowed momentum and complicated negotiations.

Banking Concerns and Political Pressure

Banking leaders have raised concerns about deposit flight. Some estimate that yield-generating stablecoins could pull trillions from traditional banks. That shift could strain liquidity and reduce lending capacity. Smaller and midsize businesses could feel the impact first.

These warnings have intensified lobbying efforts. Critics argue that banks are protecting their margins. They say lobbying pressure influences restrictions on crypto yields. This narrative has gained traction among crypto advocates.

Public debate has also expanded online. Prominent investors have criticized lawmakers for accepting limits that favor banks. They claim financial policy increasingly reflects banking priorities over consumer benefits.

Timeline Uncertainty and Path Forward

Despite tensions, industry leaders expect movement soon. Some executives predict a revised markup within weeks. Optimism stems from recent discussions with senators and staff. Others urge patience and compromise to secure progress.

The bill’s future remains uncertain. Negotiators continue refining language to address industry concerns. The outcome will shape crypto regulation and banking competition in the United States.

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