Hassett's Coinbase Stake Raises Conflict Questions Amid Regulatory Push

The White House has confirmed that Director of the National Economic Council Kevin Hassett maintains a formal recusal from regulatory matters involving cryptocurrencies, despite disclosing a significant equity stake in Coinbase stock.

Hassett reported an ownership interest worth between $1 million and $5 million in Coinbase as of December 31, 2025, according to his latest annual financial report. This figure was earned through his work on the company's Academic and Regulatory Advisory Council from 2021 until January 2025.

The disclosure has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest or the appearance thereof. A former ethics attorney at the Securities and Exchange Commission noted that the size of Hassett's equity position could represent a conflict of interest, but the administration defends the propriety of the director's actions.

Hassett formally recused himself from all policy discussions involving digital assets following consultations with designated ethics officials. He stated on television in June 2025 that he retained the shares to avoid any perception of market speculation while ethics committees reviewed his arrangement.