New York, July 17, 2025 – Crypto markets awoke to fresh momentum as hopes mounted for the passage of key U.S. legislation, particularly the GENIUS Act, which proposes a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins. Bitcoin climbed to nearly $120,000, while Ethereum rallied above $3,288, as investors embraced renewed confidence in digital assets amid shifting policy landscapes.
A Turning Point in U.S. Crypto Regulation
Industry watchers have dubbed this period “Crypto Week”. After passing the Senate in June, the GENIUS Act—formally titled the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act—is advancing through the House this week. The bill would require stablecoin issuers to maintain full asset backing, undergo regular audits, and remain transparent—provisions aimed at protecting both consumers and financial systems.
Additional proposals include the CLARITY Act, which seeks to clarify whether digital assets fall under securities or commodities jurisdiction, and the Anti‑CBDC Surveillance State Act, designed to limit the development of a government-operated digital dollar.
In an unexpected but decisive move, former President Trump posted on Truth Social that 11 House Republicans had switched their votes in favor of the GENIUS Act, largely removing barriers to its passage.
Market Response: Prices and Sentiment
The positive sentiment rippled across markets, with Bitcoin rising approximately 2%, reaching near-record highs around $119,000–$120,000. Ethereum jumped nearly 8%, topping $3,288, while altcoins like XRP, Solana, and smaller tokens each advanced between 5% and 9%.
Beyond digital assets, crypto-related stocks also reflected optimism. Circle, the issuer of USDC, spiked nearly 17%, and Coinbase shares gained approximately 4%.
Institutional and Retail Backing
Analysts note that legislative certainty is a critical catalyst for wider adoption. The GENIUS Act, in conjunction with the CLARITY and Anti‑CBDC acts, could provide the regulatory bedrock needed to attract institutional capital.
“Crypto Week” has drawn attention beyond investors. Wall Street banks—such as Bank of America, JPMorgan, and Citigroup—are actively exploring stablecoin strategies, contingent upon clearer legal frameworks.
What’s Next?
House leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson and Reps. Scalise and Emmer, have signaled an intention to fast-track GENIUS and companion bills within the week. Final passage and presidential signature would mark a pivotal moment in U.S. crypto history.
Still, hurdles remain. The House blocked a procedural vote initially, though Trump’s influence swayed enough Republicans to tip the balance. Markets are also watching other global financial and macroeconomic indicators that could influence crypto volatility.
Implications for Crypto Investors
For investors, this marks a potential watershed. Stablecoin regulation could usher in a wave of institutional infrastructure: banks issuing fiat-backed tokens, integration of stablecoins into payments networks, and a new era of digital finance. Meanwhile, the gains seen in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and equities tied to crypto initiatives suggest widening acceptance.
Final Word
This week’s optimism goes beyond short-term price moves. Should these regulatory measures pass, they promise to redefine the trajectory of digital assets in the United States—transforming crypto from speculative tokens into legally recognized components of financial architecture. As legislation unfolds, the market’s narrative is no longer just about short-term gains but the maturation and integration of blockchain into mainstream finance.
