This week, a congressional committee will vote on the appointment of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chair nominee Paul Atkins.
If confirmed, it will mark another milestone in President Donald Trump’s campaign to make America the “crypto capital of the world.” His remarks at the Blockworks Digital Assets Summit and the White House Digital Asset Summit have underscored his administration’s commitment to fostering innovative, resilient and accountable American-made cryptocurrencies.
For the sake of transparency, let me say that the crypto company I co-founded, Unicoin, has been under the threat of federal investigation by the SEC led by Biden administration chair, Gary Gensler. In December, we received an official notice that the regulator intended to accuse us of fraud, deceptive practices and handling unregistered securities. We vehemently refute the SEC’s claims.
The investigation was announced in the final days of the Biden administration, before the SEC’s leadership was taken over by those selected by crypto fan Trump.
Since, I have watched a dozen other crypto companies let off the hook of enforcement actions by the agency’s new management.
We would like to be next.
Like Trump, I see the moment. He envisions a renewed “Golden Age in America” through crypto, a vision I share. Cryptocurrency adoption has surged. As of 2024, approximately 40% of American adults owned cryptocurrency, a 10% increase from 2023. Furthermore, 63% of these owners plan to purchase more in 2025, signaling a robust and growing market.
Miami, where I proudly reside, has emerged as a major cryptocurrency hub, hosting events like the Bitcoin conference, which drew over 12,000 attendees. Since then, policymakers have actively supported crypto innovation, introducing initiatives like allowing tax payments in cryptocurrency and launching MiamiCoin to fund city projects.
With its low taxes and business-friendly climate, Miami has become a magnet for blockchain companies and crypto investors.
Reflecting these trends, the Trump administration has taken decisive steps to establish U.S. leadership in the cryptocurrency space. In March, Trump signed an executive order creating a strategic Bitcoin and cryptocurrency reserve, likened to a “digital Fort Knox.”
While the administration has provided clarity and confidence in America’s cryptocurrency market, it is crucial to ensure that digital assets are developed with transparency, integrity and a commitment to serving the American people. Trump’s endorsement of blockchain technology aligns with his broader vision for American economic strength, emphasizing trust, security and resilience.
However, the cryptocurrency landscape remains plagued by unregulated, opaque operations that contribute to scams and market volatility.
As the co-founder of Unicoin, a company with a strong presence in Miami and New York City, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges posed by over-regulation under the previous administration’s SEC. Despite unwarranted scrutiny, Unicoin has embraced transparency, aligning with Trump’s 2025-era commitment to accountability.
Unicoin’s openness in disclosing transaction records, audits and financial reports sets it apart in an industry often criticized for its lack of oversight. This model not only fosters trust but also encourages healthy competition and enterprise.
Our digital asset was designed with American investors in mind, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while promoting financial security. By focusing on transparency and community involvement, Unicoin exemplifies what a responsible, American-made cryptocurrency should be.
To maintain a competitive edge in the global digital economy, the U.S. must prioritize developing homegrown cryptocurrencies. This means fostering domestic innovation while holding companies to higher transparency benchmarks.
The need for accountable cryptocurrencies extends beyond regulation; it’s about ensuring that digital assets are safe, secure and aligned with American values. Blockchain technology presents an opportunity to build a more inclusive and transparent financial system — but only if innovation is matched with accountability.
And Miami exemplifies what an accountable cryptocurrency ecosystem can look like. Its forward-thinking policies and business-friendly environment have positioned it at the forefront of the U.S. cryptocurrency revolution.
As we enter a new fiscal quarter, we have a real opportunity — from Miami to Washington, D.C. — to shape a future where digital assets transcend financial speculation and become a cornerstone of a secure, transparent and prosperous economy.
Alex Konanykhin is chief executive officer of Unicoin. He resides in Miami.