Crypto group counters Wall Street bankers with its own stablecoin principles for bill

CoinDesk

by Jesse Hamilton

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Crypto and Wall Street bankers are at odds over stablecoin rewards, with the banking sector pushing for a ban on such yields, citing concerns about their impact on traditional depository activities. In a White House meeting, bankers presented a document titled "Yield and Interest Prohibition Principles," arguing that stablecoin rewards pose risks to U.S. banking systems. Meanwhile, the crypto community has defended the necessity of rewards, particularly in decentralized finance (DeFi), where they play a critical role in liquidity provision and ecosystem growth. The Digital Chamber, representing the crypto industry, countered with its own set of principles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining certain reward structures for stablecoin users. While it agreed to drop provisions related to static holdings resembling bank savings accounts, it argued that rewards tied to active transactions and DeFi participation should remain permissible. This compromise reflects the crypto sector's willingness to engage in dialogue while advocating for regulatory clarity. The impasse stems from competing priorities: bankers seek stricter controls over stablecoins under the pending Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, which aims to roll back elements of last year’s GENIUS Act. Crypto advocates, however, view rewards as essential for fostering innovation and competition in DeFi. The White House has called for a resolution by month's end, but progress remains stalled amid ongoing negotiations. This clash highlights the broader regulatory battle between traditional finance and crypto, with significant implications for the future of DeFi and stablecoin adoption. The outcome could determine whether crypto continues to thrive as a disruptive force or faces stifling regulations that align it more closely with conventional banking practices. As both sides seek middle ground, the stakes are high for stakeholders across the financial spectrum.

Verticals

cryptofinance

Originally published on CoinDesk on 2/13/2026