White House sets deadline for crypto market structure bill

The White House is urging Congress to finalize the crypto asset market structure bill by March 1, as negotiations between regulators, banks, and industry representatives continues this week.

According to the draft under discussion, the framework will introduce clear rules for stablecoins and distinguish the powers of key regulators, but will impose strict limitations on yields.

🚨 BREAKING:

White House sets March 1 deadline for Crypto Market Structure Bill.

Key draft decision:
– No yield on idle stablecoins.
– Only activity-based rewards (e.g. lending) may be allowed.
– SEC, Treasury & CFTC would enforce up to $500K per day in penalties.

Despite… pic.twitter.com/8ME8p3pDJ7

— Crypto Tice (@CryptoTice_) February 21, 2026

The SEC, the Treasury Department, and the CFTC will be able to impose sanctions of up to 500 000 USD per day for violations.

This means that the direct distribution of interest on held stablecoins—a practice some platforms use to attract liquidity—will likely be restricted or entirely prohibited.

Balance between restrictions and clarity

Despite the restrictions, the broader regulatory framework is perceived by part of the market as long-term positive. Institutional participants have long pushed for clear rules to reduce legal uncertainty and allow the integration of digital assets into the traditional financial system.

The draft is seen as a step toward formalizing the roles between the SEC and the CFTC, as well as establishing a stable supervisory regime for stablecoin issuers.

Negotiations continue

Discussions between the administration, regulators, and the banking sector continue, with the question remaining whether the industry will accept limits on yield in exchange for a clearer regulatory status.

The March 1 deadline intensifies pressure on lawmakers to reach a compromise—a move that could shape the structure of the US crypto market for years to come.