Trump shifts from criticizing to endorsing Bitcoin, aiming for strategic reserve status.
Trump’s VP pick JD Vance proposes clearer crypto regulation by SEC or CFTC.
U.S. crypto adoption rises to 40% after Bitcoin ETF approval by BlackRock.
Former President Donald Trump
Donald Trump Donald Trump is an American former president politician, businessman, and media personality, who served as the 45th president of the U.S. between 2017 to 2021. Trump earned a Bachelor of science in economics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1968. Trump won the 2016 presidential election as the Republican Party nominee against Democratic Party nominee Hillary Clinton while losing the popular vote. As president, Trump ordered a travel ban on citizens from several Muslim-majority countries, diverted military funding toward building a wall on the U.S.–Mexico border, and implemented a family separation policy. Trump has remained a prominent figure in the Republican Party and is considered a likely candidate for the 2024 presidential election President has recently softened his stance on cryptocurrencies, a move that brought him closer to winning the upcoming US election held in November 2024.
Some view this shift as a strategic maneuver to enhance his election prospects, while others speculate that Trump sees an opportunity to clarify crypto regulations and push for the U.S. government to adopt Bitcoin as a “strategic reserve.”
From Critic to Advocate – How?
Historically, Trump was critical of cryptocurrencies, labeling them a threat to the U.S. dollar and condemning their volatility. However, his recent remarks reveal a newfound appreciation for the potential of digital currencies.
At the Bitcoin Conference in Nashville, Trump praised how cryptocurrencies could innovate and change the financial world. Meanwhile, in a previous statement, Trump expressed a desire for Bitcoin (BTC) to be mined in America.
Although Trump hasn’t explained his sudden shift towards crypto, he has used the issue to set himself apart from crypto skeptics like Elizabeth Warren.
The crypto industry, with its strong financial backing, also presents a significant fundraising opportunity for Trump. Recently, he received $4 million in political donations, including $1 million each from crypto entrepreneurs Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss.
Support from JD Vance
Adding to the positive outlook is Trump’s vice-presidential pick, Jd Vance
Jd Vance James David Vance is an American politician, former corporate lawyer, author, and Marine veteran who has served as the junior United States senator from Ohio since 2023.He was born on Aug 2, 1984, he graduated from Middletown High School, and later he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served for 4 years.Vance has promoted strongly conservative policies, opposing abortion, same-sex marriage, and gun control, and has also proposed banning transgender healthcare for minors.Vance's Senate work has included: Co-sponsored a bill with Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) to lower the price of insulin. Collaborated with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) to claw back executive pay when big banks fail.Along with Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA14), introduced a companion bill that would criminalize gender-affirming care for minors with penalties of up to 12 years in prison. Senator who is known for his strong support of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. During his 2021 Senate campaign, Vance revealed he owned more than $100,000 in Bitcoin.
This year, Vance proposed new legislation to clarify how different cryptocurrencies should be regulated, either by the SEC or the CFTC. Meanwhile, his pro-crypto views align with the idea that digital currencies can improve financial inclusion and challenge traditional banks.
Rising Crypto Adoption
The push by BlackRock for the first Bitcoin spot ETF in late 2023 and early 2024 has led to a surge in cryptocurrency adoption in the U.S. Following the ETF’s approval, more financial institutions have entered the crypto space, driving increased mainstream acceptance.
According to Security.org’s 2024 Cryptocurrency Adoption and Sentiment Report, 40% of American adults now own cryptocurrency, up from 30% last year. Among current holders, 63% plan to buy more in the next year, and female ownership has risen from 18% to 29%.
Additionally, 21% of non-crypto owners are now more likely to invest due to the new Bitcoin ETF, and 46% believe Bitcoin ETF approvals will benefit the blockchain industry.
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With the election approaching, Trump’s embrace of crypto could be the game-changer the industry has been waiting for.