Source: PYMNTS – https://www.pymnts.com/cryptocurrency/2026/forget-gas-fees-compliance-is-cryptos-new-cost-of-doing-business/
Regulatory changes affecting cryptocurrency began on January 1, 2026. In Colorado, new rules give consumers the right to refunds for crypto ATM transactions. In New York, Article 12 and amendments to the Uniform Commercial Code regarding digital assets became law. At the federal level, the U.S. Federal Reserve withdrew several banking policy statements related to blockchain and digital asset activities in late 2025.
Internationally, tax enforcement has expanded. A report from January 1 indicated that tax authorities in the United Kingdom and over 40 other countries now require crypto exchanges to collect and report detailed customer trading data. These measures aim to incorporate digital assets into national tax systems and formal financial infrastructure.
Regulatory enforcement activity increased in 2025. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission pursued more than 30 crypto-related cases. These actions led to 2.6 billion dollars in penalties and restitution. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission reported that digital asset cases made up nearly half of its enforcement actions, generating more than 17 billion dollars in monetary relief.
Regulators concentrated on tackling fraud and criminal behavior instead of debates over asset classification. Agencies suggested they would maintain oversight of bad actors while also working toward clearer regulatory frameworks.
Crypto firms now face higher compliance demands. Companies must build larger compliance teams, improve data systems, and navigate different legal standards across jurisdictions. Operating costs are likely to rise, especially for smaller firms. At the same time, regulatory alignment creates higher barriers to entry and decreases unregulated activity.
The industry is moving toward integration within existing legal and financial systems via commercial law updates, consumer protections, tax reporting rules, and bank supervision standards.
