Coinbase CEO Pushes for Crypto-Friendly Overhaul of Accredited Investor Rules

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong is calling for an overhaul of U.S. accredited investor laws, arguing they lock ordinary Americans out of the market's biggest gains.

The current rules require a $200,000 income or $1 million net worth to qualify as an accredited investor, effectively reserving early-stage returns for those who are already rich.

Armstrong proposed replacing the wealth-based standard with a merit-based one, suggesting a financial literacy test that would qualify someone for accreditation based on competency rather than bank balance or income.

This idea is not without precedent, as in 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill endorsing an examination-based path to accredited status.