Andreessen Backs Permanent Crypto Regulatory Framework Amid CLARITY Act Progress

Marc Andreessen, co-founder of venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, is calling for a permanent federal regulatory framework for the US crypto market. Speaking on a podcast with Chris Dixon, an a16z partner, on August 1, 2026, Andreessen emphasized the need for a structure that prioritizes fraud prevention and investor protection while allowing responsible innovation to flourish.

The timing of his comments coincides with the CLARITY Act's progress through Congress. This bipartisan legislation aims to establish federal oversight of crypto markets by assigning responsibilities to both the SEC and CFTC, two agencies that have historically disputed jurisdiction over cryptocurrency regulation.

Andreessen likened the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework to the creation of securities laws, which laid the groundwork for modern capital markets. He argued that regulatory ambiguity mainly benefits offshore entities operating outside US jurisdiction.

Andreessen's advocacy is not merely rhetorical; he has been appointed to the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) alongside Coinbase co-founder Fred Ehrsam, both vocal supporters of the CLARITY Act. This development underscores the growing influence of the crypto and venture capital communities in shaping technology policy.

Major financial institutions such as BlackRock and JPMorgan are closely watching the regulatory landscape as they build out tokenization and stablecoin capabilities. Compliance risk remains a significant concern, particularly for asset managers handling fiduciary obligations to pension funds and endowments.