WSJ Tech News Briefing: TNB Tech Minute – House Passes Crypto Bills
Release Date: July 18, 2025
Host: Ariana Aspuru, The Wall Street Journal

1. House of Representatives Approves Landmark Crypto Legislation

In a significant move for the cryptocurrency industry, the U.S. House of Representatives successfully passed three pivotal bills aimed at establishing comprehensive regulations for cryptocurrencies. According to Ariana Aspuru at the Tech Minute segment (00:16), one of these bills sets forth standards for stablecoins, positioning it to become the first-ever U.S. piece of crypto legislation pending President Trump's anticipated signature. This legislation marks a crucial step towards formalizing the regulatory landscape for digital currencies in the United States.

Key Highlights:

• Stablecoin Standards: The first bill focuses on creating robust standards for stablecoins, aiming to enhance their stability and reliability within the financial system.
• Crypto Exchanges and Brokers: The second bill lays out detailed regulations for crypto exchanges, brokers, and issuers, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the crypto markets.
• Ban on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): The third bill seeks to prohibit the implementation of CBDCs, reflecting a cautious approach towards government-issued digital currencies.

2. Crypto Companies Seek Regulatory Clarity Amid Political Shifts

Prominent crypto firms, including Coinbase Global and Circle, have been actively lobbying for clearer regulatory guidelines. After facing strenuous challenges and uncertainties under the Biden administration, these companies have found newfound support within the Trump administration and among many Republicans. Ariana Aspuru notes (00:16) that this political realignment comes after significant lobbying efforts and financial contributions, which have been pivotal in shaping the current legislative outcomes.

3. Republicans Reject EU's AI Code of Practice, Citing Legal Uncertainty

Shifting focus from cryptocurrency, the House discussions also touched upon artificial intelligence (AI) regulations. Republicans have declined to endorse the European Union's Code of Practice for General Purpose AI. Joel Kaplan, the company's Chief Global Affairs Officer, expressed concerns about the EU’s code, stating, "00:16 the code adds legal uncertainty and measures beyond the scope of AI legislation." Kaplan's remarks highlight the tension between U.S. policymakers and international regulatory frameworks.

EU’s Stance: EU officials have defended the Code of Practice, emphasizing that it provides essential guidance on safety, security, transparency, and copyright. They argue that these measures are vital for ensuring that AI technologies comply with the EU's extensive legislation, aiming to foster a safe and transparent AI ecosystem.

4. U.S. Imposes Heavy Duties on Chinese Graphite Imports, Boosting Asia Pacific Battery Producers

In the realm of international trade and technology, the U.S. has moved decisively to impose substantial duties on graphite imports from China. Graphite is a critical component for battery anodes, making this development particularly impactful for the battery manufacturing sector. Ariana Aspuru reports (00:16) that the U.S. Commerce Department is set to enforce preliminary anti-dumping duties of 93.5% on these imports, following a determination that Chinese graphite has been unfairly subsidized.

Market Implications:

• Asia Pacific Battery Material Producers: Shares of battery material companies in the Asia Pacific region have surged in response to the U.S. tariffs, reflecting investor confidence in their ability to capitalize on reduced competition from Chinese imports.
• Battery Industry Impact: The increased duties are expected to incentivize domestic production and potentially lead to advancements in battery technology and supply chain resilience within the U.S. and allied markets.

5. Conclusion

The House’s passage of the crypto bills signifies a pivotal advancement in the regulatory framework governing digital currencies in the United States. Coupled with the strategic political alliances formed by major crypto companies, these developments are poised to shape the future of the cryptocurrency landscape. Simultaneously, the rejection of the EU’s AI Code of Practice by Republicans underscores the ongoing debates surrounding international tech regulations. Lastly, the U.S. tariffs on Chinese graphite demonstrate a strategic move to bolster domestic and allied industries amidst global trade tensions.

Stay tuned for more updates in our upcoming Tech Minutes.

Notable Quotes:

• "The code adds legal uncertainty and measures beyond the scope of AI legislation." – Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer (00:16)