Yellen Criticizes Senate for Blocking GENIUS Act

Janet Yellen, U.S. Treasury Secretary, criticized the Senate’s decision on May 9, 2025, to block the GENIUS Act, which addressed the regulatory framework for stablecoins in the United States.

The blockage of the GENIUS Act by the Senate highlights the ongoing struggle for a clear stablecoin regulatory framework in the U.S., causing uncertainty in the market.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen voiced strong disagreement with the Senate’s rejection of the GENIUS Act. The Act was designed to provide a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins, highlighting Yellen’s push for clearer rules. During the discussion, Senior Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren noted:

“The Senate shouldn’t approve a crypto bill this week to enable this type of corruption.”

Senators Tim Scott and French Hill led efforts in Congress for the Act, seeking to provide guidance on stablecoin usage and regulation. The rejection has fueled debates surrounding crypto industry regulation, with political implications.

The decision has caused significant unease in the crypto market, affecting both investors and companies. The stablecoin USD1, tied to the Trump-family linked World Liberty Financial, experienced delays in market listings.

Financial uncertainty has rippled through related ecosystems, with investors concerned about potential losses. The impact on major cryptocurrencies like ETH and BTC remains uncertain, though wider market influences are anticipated.

Long-term regulatory clarity remains dubious, leaving the U.S. stablecoin landscape in flux. The outcome could shape future legislative initiatives, indicating a challenging road ahead for crypto regulation. Historical barriers highlight recurring difficulties in bipartisan cooperation.