Coinbase CEO Takes Stand Against Law Firms Hiring Anti-Crypto SEC Officials

Coinbase’s CEO, Brian Armstrong, has issued a strong message to law firms hiring former U.S. SEC officials involved in anti-crypto actions.

Armstrong made it clear that Coinbase will sever all ties with such firms, citing ethical concerns over hiring individuals like Gurbir S. Grewal, the former SEC Division of Enforcement Director. Grewal was known for his aggressive enforcement actions against the crypto sector, which Armstrong views as an attempt to harm the industry without clear regulatory guidance.

In his statement, Armstrong condemned these actions as unethical, pointing out that the lack of clear regulatory rules from the SEC has been damaging to the crypto market.

He also criticized the mindset of SEC officials who justified their actions by claiming they were simply “following orders,” especially since many of their colleagues chose to leave the agency due to disagreements with its direction.

While Armstrong emphasized the importance of not permanently excluding individuals from employment, he urged the crypto community to stop financially supporting firms that hire such individuals.

Looking ahead, Armstrong expressed optimism about the potential for pro-crypto legislation under President-elect Donald Trump.

He believes that two upcoming bills—one focused on creating a legal framework for digital assets and the other regulating stablecoin issuers—could improve the regulatory landscape for crypto in the U.S.