Danny Ryan, co-founder of Etherealize and former Ethereum developer, has warned that while the Trump administration’spro-crypto legislative advances have opened doors for digital assets, the industry now faces political tension and possible backlash once a new administration takes office. Ryan called on the crypto sector to use the current policy window to deeply embed itself into financial infrastructure so future debates focus on how crypto should be regulated and used responsibly, rather than whether it should exist.
Current Crypto Landscape Under Trump
The Trump administration’s actions have positioned the U.S. as unusually supportive of the cryptocurrency industry, leading to landmark legislation and regulatory clarity that many in the sector have long sought. However, Ryan and other analysts believe that this pro-crypto stance carries political baggage tied to the Trump family’s extensive involvement in crypto ventures — including public projects perceived by critics to benefit from favorable policy environments.
Ryan highlighted that some Democrats at recent industry hearings have focused more on conflicts of interest and political implications than on substantive policy discussions, a dynamic he says has slowed meaningful legislative progress.
Why This Matters
Ryan’s warning comes amid growing concern that the industry’s success under a crypto-friendly U.S. administration could trigger a reaction from future political leadership. He suggested that if the next administration — potentially more sceptical or hostile toward digital assets — takes office and public sentiment has tied crypto too closely to one political figure or family, then regulatory rollbacks or punitive measures could follow.
To avoid such a scenario, Ryan urged the industry to use the remaining time under current conditions to:
- Integrate crypto deeply into traditional financial systems
- Onboard major financial institutions and global capital markets
- Showcase real-world utility and technological value beyond speculation
By doing so, Ryan believes the narrative around cryptocurrencies could shift from questions of existence to serious discussions about responsible usage and regulation — much like debates that surround long-standing technologies such as the internet.
Industry Goals vs. Political Reality
Many in the crypto ecosystem consider the present policy environment historic. Landmark legislation such as the GENIUS Act — which established stablecoin frameworks — and other regulatory advances have helped bring institutional interest and clarity to markets. Still, this progress has not been universally embraced; concerns about conflicts of interest linked to Trump-backed crypto firms and ventures have surfaced repeatedly in political and media discourse.
Ryan’s comments reflect a broader strategic view within the industry: securing meaningful integration now could make digital assets politically resilient in the long term, even if political winds shift.
Looking Forward
The crypto sector now faces a crucial period in which actions taken — or not taken — could determine its regulatory and political future. Industry leaders are increasingly focused on demonstrating practical value, not just market growth, aiming to show lawmakers and the public that digital assets can function as essential elements of modern financial infrastructure.
Ryan’s message underscores the urgency many industry participants feel: the next few years could shape decades of global crypto policy.
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