Here are the key highlights of the GENIUS Act, which the House passed on July 17, 2025, by a vote of 308–122, sending it to President Trump’s desk:
🏦 1.
Stablecoin Issuance Framework
- Establishes the first federal licensing system for banks, credit unions, fintechs, and other entities to issue U.S.-dollar-backed stablecoins.
💰 2.
Reserve & Audit Requirements
- Mandates a strict 1:1 reserve ratio—each issued stablecoin must be fully backed by U.S. dollars or similarly liquid, low-risk assets (like short-term Treasuries).
- Requires regular audits and prohibits issuers from lending or trading against those reserves.
🔄 3.
Consumer Protections & Transparency
- Requires issuers to fully disclose redemption policies, timelines, and fees.
- Bans misleading claims like “FDIC-backed” stablecoins.
- Allows stablecoin holders priority in redemption during issuer bankruptcy.
🏛️ 4.
Regulatory Oversight
- Introduces a dual supervision model: both federal regulators (e.g. Commodity Futures Trading Commission) and state agencies will oversee compliance.
📉 5.
No Interest by Issuers
- Licensed issuers are barred from paying any form of interest on stablecoins.
- But third-party platforms (e.g. crypto exchanges) may still offer “rewards” or yield.
🏦 6.
Institutional Adoption
- Encourages major banks (Bank of America, JP Morgan, Citi) and corporations (Walmart, Amazon) to launch stablecoins—reducing reliance on traditional card networks.
⚖️ 7.
Crypto “Trifecta” Package
- Passed alongside two sibling bills: CLARITY Act – Clarifies whether digital assets are classified as securities or commodities. Anti‑CBDC Surveillance State Act – Blocks the Fed from issuing a central bank digital currency.
⚠️ 8.
Criticisms
- No FDIC insurance on stablecoins—leaves holders exposed.
- Potential redemption delays or fees may reduce consumer protection.
- Critics point to industry influence and conflicts of interest tied to Trump-affiliated ventures.
🧩 What’s Next?
- Senate: Finalizing companion Crypto Week bills (CLARITY, Anti-CBDC).
- White House: President Trump is expected to sign the GENIUS Act imminently.
In summary, the GENIUS Act marks a major step toward legitimizing and expanding stablecoins in the U.S., striking a balance between encouraging adoption and imposing financial safeguards. It’s a landmark shift in U.S. crypto policy—but not without controversy.