Spain Advance Clear Crypto Rules While US Regulation Stalls

The Spanish government is getting ready to fully enforce two major European Union (EU) laws by early 2026. The goal is to set clear rules for the crypto industry and make Spain a global leader in digital asset regulation. This comes as crypto rules in the United States are still unclear. 

Spain to Fully Enforce MiCA and New Crypto Tax Rules by 2026

Spain plans to fully implement Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) by mid-2026. MiCA already applies across the European Union. However, Spain has extended the transition period for existing crypto companies until July 1, 2026. 

This would let firms keep operating under old rules while they get ready for the new ones. MiCA sets clear rules for crypto exchanges, wallet services, and token issuers. It protects investors, makes the market more transparent, and requires companies to follow strict conduct standards. 

Alongside MiCA, Spain will apply the Directive on Administrative Cooperation (DAC8) from January 1, 2026. DAC8 is about tax reporting and cooperation across the EU.

Under DAC8, crypto exchanges and service providers must automatically share user information with tax authorities. As a result, crypto transactions in Spain will no longer remain anonymous. Every sale, exchange, and transfer will leave a clear and traceable record. 

These measures are meant to stop tax evasion and build trust in the crypto market. It would also make crypto assets follow the same reporting rules as other financial assets.

Spain Takes the Lead as the US Falls Behind

Spain’s progress stands in contrast to the situation in the United States. The US market structure bill, often called the Clarity Act, has not yet become law. Although the House of Representatives passed the bill earlier in 2025, the Senate has delayed committee action. The lawmakers also have not reached a final decision.

Last month, the Senate Agriculture Committee released a bipartisan draft with major changes. Despite this progress, the bill is still waiting for full approval. This delay has worried industry experts, who say unclear rules could slow innovation and investment.

Global Momentum Builds for Crypto Rules

Many analysts believe more countries will follow Spain’s footsteps. Ruslan Lienkha, Markets Chief at YouHodler, said more governments are likely to bring in clear and open crypto rules. 

He added that these rules should support wider use and bring more banks and financial institutions into the crypto market in 2026. Recent comments from the White House also point to possible changes in the United States.

David Sacks, the White House AI and crypto czar, confirmed that the Senate plans to discuss the crypto bill.  The discussion is expected to take place during a January committee markup. He said Senate leaders have agreed to move the Clarity Act forward for review.