London-based crypto trading and market-making firm, Wintermute, has opened an office in New York as part of its expansion into the US. Wintermute announced the opening of its New York office on May. 15. The firm cites improved regulatory conditions in the world’s biggest economy. Wintermute CEO Evgeny Gaevoy said:
We’re eager to continue our growth and play an integral role in the U.S. market. As a neutral player with deep expertise in all areas of digital assets, we believe we are well-positioned to lend our expertise on Capitol Hill.
As part of its growth, Wintermute has appointed Ron Hammond as the new head of policy and advocacy. He brings with him ten years of experience shaping crypto policy on Capitol Hill.
Hammond was previously the senior director of government relations and institutional engagement at the Blockchain Association and served as the policy lead for US Representative Warren Davidson.
Hammond also wrote the Token Taxonomy Act of 2021, the first crypto regulation bill in the US with bipartisan support.
Trump’s win sparks crypto expansion in the U.S.
Increasingly more crypto firms have expanded into the US since President Donald Trump took office on Jan. 20 after winning the 2024 presidential election.
During his campaign, Trump indicated that his administration intends to prioritize crypto policy. This has increased expectations for more innovation-friendly regulations over the next four years.
At least eight major crypto companies have announced their expansion plans in the US this year, encouraged by clearer regulations. These include eToro, OKX, Binance.US, Nexo, Crypto.com, Circle, and a16z.
Meanwhile, crypto industry participants are waiting for updates on the STABLE Act. It focuses on improving transparency and accountability for stablecoins.
The STABLE Act passed the House Financial Services Committee with a 32–17 vote on April 2 and is now waiting to be scheduled for debate and a vote on the House floor.
