Regulatory changes in digital asset laws are gaining momentum globally as 2026 marks a shift from implementation to operational phases. The United States, China, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have introduced significant updates to their regulatory frameworks.
In the US, the Clarity Act is expected to formalize Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversight and solidify the country's leadership in crypto infrastructure. This proposed legislation aims to establish a clear distinction between commodities and securities, requiring exchanges and dealers to register with the CFTC and adhere to consumer protections.
China has strengthened its rules on digital payments through the sovereign digital yuan (e-CNY) and controlled tokenization projects. New regulations prohibit the unauthorized issuance of yuan-pegged stablecoins, both domestically and offshore, and mandate strict vetting for tokenized real-world assets. This reinforces the dominance of the state-backed e-CNY.
In contrast to China's restrictive approach, Hong Kong is expanding its licensing regimes and regulated stablecoin frameworks. The city aims to solidify its position as a global digital asset hub by aligning tax transparency with international standards. Hong Kong has prioritized the regulation of previously 'over-the-counter' (OTC) and advisory services, including virtual asset dealing, custodianship, advisory services, and asset management.
The UAE has also strengthened its crypto regulatory framework, shifting token suitability assessments from the regulator to authorized firms. The Central Bank of the UAE approved a dirham-backed stablecoin for institutional use, aiming to increase market flexibility while ensuring high standards of integrity for digital asset service providers.