Crypto-friendly policies in the US may spur African regulators to establish rules, says Yellow Card CEO

The US government’s recent pro-crypto stance is expected to influence African regulators to develop clearer rules for the digital asset sector.

Chris Maurice, CEO of leading Africa-focused crypto platform Yellow Card, noted that the shift in attitude from both regulators and traditional banks has bolstered confidence in the future of crypto across the continent.

Maurice’s comments followed US President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at advancing digital asset innovation and blockchain technology. The order, signed earlier this week, requires US agencies to review and update regulations related to digital assets within 60 days. 

Additionally, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced the formation of a cryptocurrency task force to establish clear regulatory guidelines and disclosure frameworks.

Maurice highlighted that African regulators often wait for the US to set the tone before implementing their own rules. He also observed a significant shift in sentiment among traditional banks since Trump’s election in November 2024. 

“Banks that previously avoided crypto are now reaching out to understand how to enter the space,” Maurice said, attributing part of this change to the “Trump effect.”

Yellow Card is seeking regulatory approval to operate in Nigeria, where authorities granted licenses to local exchanges Busha and Quidax in August 2024. Nigeria’s securities commission has pledged to issue more licenses in 2025, reflecting growing interest in crypto across the continent.

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