Struggle for Crypto Banking Access: Top Names Including Coinbase Clash with U.S. Officials Over ‘Operation Chokepoint 2.0’

• The tension between the crypto industry and U.S. Democratic Party officials surfaced prominently during a recent meeting at the White House.
• The discussions turned confrontational when the government dismissed allegations of systematically cutting off crypto firms from the banking system.
• “Executives didn’t hold back on telling the administration reps how much damage they’ve done to the crypto industry and to the Democrat Party with their actions against digital assets,” said one attendee.

This article dissects the current struggles between the crypto industry and U.S. government officials, highlighting key developments and future implications.

Crypto Industry Confronts Regulatory Hurdles

On Thursday morning, several prominent figures in the crypto sector engaged in a high-stakes discussion with White House representatives. The objective was to address growing concerns about the relationship between the emerging fintech sector and U.S. regulators, which many believe has deteriorated over the years. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo refuted claims that regulatory bodies intended to ostracize crypto firms from the financial system.

Controversy Over Banking Access

Despite Adeyemo’s assurances, the meeting’s tension peaked when a crypto executive requested a show of hands among industry members whose companies had their banking access restricted due to White House policies. Notably, almost all industry attendees—including executives from Coinbase, Kraken, and Uniswap—raised their hands. This scene underscored the industry’s collective frustration and the perceived hostile regulatory environment following the FTX collapse.

Historic Regulatory Clampdowns

The concerns raised during the meeting did not emerge in isolation. In February, Nic Carter of Castle Island Ventures detailed what he termed “Operation Choke Point 2.0,” accusing federal authorities of discouraging banks from working with crypto firms. The subsequent closure of crypto-centric banks like Silvergate, Signature, and Silicon Valley Bank sent shockwaves through the industry, compelling many crypto companies to seek banking services abroad.

Diverging Perspectives within the Sector

While some industry leaders remain hopeful for more meaningful engagement with the current administration, skepticism persists. The optimism partly stems from the belief that Vice President Kamala Harris could become a significant advocate for crypto. Nonetheless, others, like Gemini co-founder Tyler Winklevoss, remain doubtful, citing the recent Federal Reserve action against Customers Bancorp as evidence of continued regulatory resistance.

Conclusion

The meeting between crypto executives and White House officials highlighted the ongoing tension and differing viewpoints within the regulatory landscape. While some participants believe progress is being made, others question whether genuine policy changes will follow. As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, the crypto industry must navigate these challenges strategically to secure its place within the broader financial system.