Donald Trump, the President-elect of the United States, has nominated Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary for his administration. This decision has generated enthusiasm in the emerging industry due to Bessent’s pro-crypto reputation.
Bessent and Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick had been considered strong favorites for the position. However, Lutnick was eventually nominated as Commerce Secretary.
Crypto Industry Welcomes Scott Bessent’s Nomination for Treasury Secretary
In a November 22 announcement on Truth Social, Trump praised Bessent as the ideal candidate to support his administration’s economic goals. The President stated that Bessent will play a pivotal role in strengthening the US economy, fostering innovation, and maintaining the dollar’s status as the global reserve currency.
“Scott will support my policies that will drive US competitiveness, and stop unfair trade imbalances, work to create an economy that places growth at the forefront, especially through our coming world energy dominance,” Trump added.
Wall Street veteran Bessent, who founded the international macro investment company Key Square Group, brings extensive experience to the role. He had previously served as the chief investment officer for the prominent investor George Soros.
While President Trump’s announcement did not directly reference cryptocurrencies, many in the digital asset space view Bessent’s appointment as a positive sign. In past statements, Bessent has described crypto as a symbol of financial freedom. He also called Bitcoin an alternative investment for younger investors disillusioned with the traditional financial system.
“I have been excited about the president’s embrace of crypto and I think it fits very well with the Republican Party, crypto is about freedom in the crypto economy is here to stay,” Bessent stated.
His pro-crypto stance has led many to believe his leadership could encourage a more balanced approach to digital asset regulation. This would contrast with the outgoing administration’s enforcement-heavy tactics, such as its controversial sanctions on decentralized platforms like Tornado Cash.
Indeed, crypto industry leaders have responded enthusiastically to Bessent’s nomination. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse commended Bessent’s nomination, calling it a win for innovation. He noted that Bessent’s leadership could mark a turning point for crypto-friendly policies in Washington.
Similarly, Kristin Smith, CEO of the Blockchain Association, highlighted the importance of Bessent working with Congress to establish clear regulations, ensure fair tax treatment, and protect self-custody rights for digital assets.
“Critical to this nomination would be working with Congress on a regulatory framework for digital assets, protecting the right to self custody, pushing for clearer tax treatment of digital assets, and working closely with industry experts to protect our nation’s security,” Smith remarked.
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