Digital-Asset Market Bill Delay Impacts US Crypto Casinos

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Digital-Asset Market Bill Delay Impacts US Crypto Casinos

Lawmakers in Washington are struggling to move forward with the long-awaited digital-asset market-structure bill, raising concerns across the cryptocurrency industry. 

Sources close to the negotiations say the bill could be delayed as senators clash over jurisdictional authority between the SEC and the CFTC, along with how to regulate DeFi platforms and token classifications.

According to TD Cowen’s Washington Research Group, the main obstacle is defining which digital assets qualify as securities. In a recent note, analysts wrote, 

“The longer this jurisdictional fight continues, the more uncertainty the digital-asset sector faces. Both regulators are reluctant to yield ground.”

Why Digital-Asset Market-Structure Bill Talks Have Stalled

The dispute centers on whether the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) should have primary oversight of digital assets. 

Democrats generally support giving broader powers to the SEC, citing consumer protection and risk transparency. Republicans, meanwhile, argue that the CFTC’s framework is better suited for innovation and market efficiency.

TD Cowen analysts noted, “The Senate Banking Committee remains divided. Each side sees crypto oversight as a test of its regulatory philosophy.” 

Moreover, the report adds that the bill’s progress has slowed due to disagreements over DeFi exemptions and how stablecoins fit into the regulatory framework.

Discussions about passing the Digital-Asset Market-Structure Bill have begun following the passing of the CLARITY Act and GENIUS Act earlier this year.

How the Delay Affects US Crypto Casinos

The uncertainty extends beyond exchanges and stablecoin issuers. US crypto casinos and blockchain-based gaming operators face prolonged ambiguity over compliance standards, payment rules, and taxation. Without federal clarity, they continue to rely on state-level interpretations or operate offshore.

Additionally, analysts warn this could push innovation abroad. “Until Congress provides clear rules, capital and talent will continue migrating to more predictable jurisdictions,” TD Cowen wrote.

If talks regain momentum, the bill will likely establish dual oversight between the SEC and CFTC, with new provisions for decentralized finance. However, the delay signals that any final vote may slip into 2026.

For now, the digital-asset industry, especially US crypto casinos, remains caught between evolving regulation and political gridlock.