Following intensified bipartisan talks and a White House meeting last week, the Senate Banking Committee has formally postponed markup on the cryptocurrency market structure bill until early 2026, citing ongoing negotiations. This confirms earlier expectations of a delay amid holidays and unresolved issues.
In an announcement on December 15, 2025, the Senate Banking Committee, chaired by Tim Scott, confirmed it will not hold a markup hearing on the crypto market structure bill this week or before the end of 2025. A committee spokesperson highlighted progress with Democrats but noted continued bipartisan discussions: "From the outset, Chairman Scott has been clear that this effort should be bipartisan... The Committee is continuing to negotiate and looks forward to a markup in early 2026."
Building on last week's White House meeting and public disputes over ethics rules (including concerns tied to President Trump's family businesses), stablecoins, DeFi protections, and SEC authority, Democrats have also flagged financial stability and market integrity risks.
The bill seeks to clarify oversight by designating the CFTC as primary regulator for spot crypto markets and defining securities laws' application. While the Banking Committee has drafted versions, the Senate Agriculture Committee requires its own markup.
The crypto industry, which hoped for at least a 2025 hearing, expressed disappointment, though optimism lingers. Resuming in 2026 may face hurdles from government funding deadlines (expiring January 30) and other priorities.
Meanwhile, regulators are acting independently: The SEC held a December 15 roundtable on crypto and securities laws, issuing staff statements; the CFTC has allowed spot crypto trading for licensed firms and eased data rules for prediction markets.
