Urgent Crypto News: Trump’s 401k Crypto Order, Ripple SEC Settlement & Bitcoin Price Impact
Crypto News Insights delivers the day’s most impactful headlines directly to you. Are you wondering what moved the Bitcoin price today? We cover daily trends and events affecting blockchain, DeFi, NFTs, Web3, and crucial crypto regulation updates. Today’s top stories include significant developments from the US government, a landmark legal settlement, and a key Federal Reserve nomination. Stay informed on the dynamic world of digital assets.
Trump’s 401k Crypto Order Sparks Optimism
On Thursday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order. This order aims to open doors for Americans. They can now include crypto and other alternative assets in their 401(k) retirement accounts. This policy shift has generated both optimism and caution within the crypto industry. President Trump’s order directs the US Labor Department to reevaluate existing restrictions. These restrictions apply to alternative assets like crypto, private equity, and real estate. This applies specifically to 401(k)s and other defined-contribution plans.
As of early 2025, US retirement assets totaled $43.4 trillion. This data comes from the Investment Company Institute and the Federal Reserve Board. Defined-contribution plans, including $8.7 trillion in 401(k)s, accounted for over $12 trillion. Billions of dollars could potentially flow into crypto. Therefore, industry stakeholders have shared varied opinions and reactions to this executive order.
Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan commented on the change. He believes it could transform crypto markets. It would introduce a “slow, steady, consistent bid” from retirement contributions. Hougan added, “The result is higher returns and lower volatility.” Joshua Krüger, head of growth at the dEURO Association, predicted the main short-term beneficiary. He stated it is likely to be Bitcoin (BTC). BTC boasts the strongest institutional acceptance. Therefore, he expects it to be the first integrated into regulated pension products. This move could significantly impact the Bitcoin price in the long term. This marks a potentially transformative moment for cryptocurrency adoption. Previously, investing in digital assets through traditional retirement vehicles was largely restricted. This new policy aims to dismantle some of these barriers.
Ripple SEC Legal Battle Concludes
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Ripple Labs have finally ended their years-long legal battle. Their dispute over XRP (XRP) concluded on Thursday. A US appeals court recognized the regulator’s bid to abandon its appeal. Ripple’s move to stop its cross-appeal was also noted. The Second Circuit Appeals Court acknowledged a joint dismissal. Both the SEC’s appeal and Ripple’s cross-appeal were dropped. Each party will bear their own costs and fees.
The SEC initially sued Ripple in late 2020. They accused the company of selling XRP as an unregistered security. A federal judge ruled in July 2023. XRP sold on public exchanges did not meet the definition of a security. However, XRP sold to institutional investors were deemed unregistered securities. The agency had appealed this specific part of the decision. With both parties agreeing to drop their appeals, the July 2023 ruling stands as final. This means the distinction between institutional and programmatic sales is now legally binding in this case. Furthermore, Ripple will pay $125 million in fines. Both the company and the SEC tried to reduce this amount, but failed. This resolution removes a major overhang for XRP. It also provides a degree of certainty for other projects navigating the complex US regulatory landscape. This landmark decision is undoubtedly one of the most impactful pieces of crypto news of the year, shaping future regulatory discussions for the Ripple SEC saga.
Key Federal Reserve Nomination Impacts Monetary Policy
US President Donald Trump announced a new nomination for the Federal Reserve. He will nominate Stephen Miran. Miran currently chairs the Council of Economic Advisors. He will temporarily replace Federal Reserve Board of Governors member Adriana Kugler. Her resignation becomes effective on Friday. In a Friday social media post, Trump stated Miran would serve at the Fed. His term would run until January 31, 2026. The White House will continue searching for a permanent replacement.
Reports suggested the president had considered other economic advisors. These included Kevin Hassett and former Fed governor Kevin Warsh. They were among others weighed to replace Kugler this week. The next Fed board member will hold significant influence. This includes shaping the country’s monetary policy. Decisions on federal interest rates are a key part of this. The incoming nomination requires Senate approval. It follows Kugler’s resignation on August 1. No specific reason was given for her departure.
Interestingly, Kevin Hassett previously directed the National Economic Council under Trump. He disclosed holding a stake in Coinbase Global. This stake was valued between $1 million and $5 million as of June. Warsh, who served as a Fed governor from 2006 to 2011, also commented on blockchain technology. He reportedly said it could benefit the US central bank. This would apply to its payment systems. Such nominations are vital in the broader Trump crypto narrative, influencing future economic directions. The composition of the Federal Reserve Board can indirectly affect the crypto market. Decisions on inflation and interest rates influence investor appetite for risk assets like Bitcoin. Therefore, understanding who holds these influential positions is crucial for anyone tracking Bitcoin price movements and the broader economic environment.