GENIUS 法案於 2025 年 7 月在白宮簽署成為法律。
“美國穩定幣全國創新引導與建立法案”(即 GENIUS 法案)──是美國第一部全面規範穩定幣的聯邦法律。穩定幣是一種與穩定資產(如美元)掛鉤的加密貨幣。
2025 年 7 月 18 日,美國總統唐納德·川普正式簽署 GENIUS 法案,使其成為加密產業發展上的分水嶺。這部指標性法律為支付型穩定幣(可 1:1 兌換法幣的數位代幣)建立了明確的監管制度,並針對消費者和金融體系引進防護措施。
本文將說明 GENIUS 法案的內容、其提出原因、國會審議歷程,及其對穩定幣市場和更廣泛加密行業的影響。我們也會探討法案的優缺點,以及其對全球金融帶來的潛在變革。
背景:為何穩定幣需要監管
近年來,穩定幣應用大幅增長,已成為加密經濟的核心基礎。像 USDT、USDC、DAI 等穩定幣通常與 $1 等值,讓“數位美元”能以區塊鏈在全球快速、低成本流通。到 2025 年,穩定幣在美國每日交易額約達 700 億美元,全球市值則數千億美元。它們將法幣穩定性和加密貨幣的快速、可編程性結合,用於交易、支付和匯款。儘管如此,過去穩定幣多在法律灰色地帶運作,缺乏聯邦層級直接監管。
多起重大事件突顯未受監管穩定幣的風險。 2019 年,臉書提出全球穩定幣(Libra/Diem),引發監管單位對科技巨擘私自發行貨幣的擔憂,促使監管討論誰可發行穩定幣。2022 年 5 月,演算法穩定幣 TerraUSD(UST)脫鉤至崩盤,損失超過 400 億美元,顯示穩定幣失敗會重創投資人甚至影響更廣市場。事發後,美國財長葉倫警告,穩定幣缺乏完善監管將對金融穩定構成風險,顯示立法的“迫切”需求。2023 年 3 月,龍頭美元穩定幣 USDC 也因儲備資產受矽谷銀行擠兌而短暫脫鉤。雖然後來美國監管出手,USDC 得以恢復,該事件仍再度暴露穩定幣對儲備資產風險和銀行連鎖反應的脆弱性。
各方早已辯論如何規管這些風險。2021 年底,美國總統金融市場工作小組建議國會規定穩定幣發行人需成為投保銀行以保障用戶,但未獲通過。陸續有多項法案如 2020 年的 “STABLE Act”(要求發幣者取得銀行執照和聯準會批准),2022 年參議院兩黨提案則主張設立聯邦發行人執照作為替代。然這些方案皆未通過。部分發行人取得州級執照(如紐約 BitLicense 或信託牌照),但如 Tether(USDT)等則繼續在海外以非透明儲備運作。
到 2023–24 年,產業與監管方對立法壓力同步升高,普遍認同穩定幣不再能無規可循。加密產業推動“穩定幣框架”能給創新明確法律界線,方便納入監管;監管者則強調,必須設下防線保護金融體系和消費者安全,避免發生穩定幣倒閉或被濫用(如洗錢)。決策者同樣也視穩定幣為強化美元主導力的機會──當美元掛鉤穩定幣在全球廣泛流通,便能進一步拓展美國金融影響力,吸引發行業務回流本土,同時也讓穩定幣的儲備注入美國國債,有助支持政府資金需求。
在這樣的背景下,2024 年美國大選成為突破契機。新川普政府與前屆管制政策形成強烈對比,展現高度親加密立場。川普競選中主張“讓美國成為全球加密之都”,承諾擁抱數位資產而非壓制。2025 年 1 月上任後,立即將加密立法列為首要任務。國會兩院議員先前已開始推動相關法案:眾議院有 Hill 及 Steil 提出 2025 年 STABLE Act,參議院則由 Hagerty 推出 GENIUS 法案(二黨共同提案人有 Gillibrand、Alsobrooks、Scott、Lummis)。經過多次折衝,2025 年終於迎來政策與時機的吻合,穩定幣立法突破多年僵局。
通過之路:GENIUS 法案的政治歷程
GENIUS 法案在國會闖關進展迅速,反映罕見的跨黨共識。2025 年春,參議院銀行委員會以 18-6 投票通過,顯見共和黨與部分民主黨的共同支持。6 月,全院以“絕對跨黨大多數”通過 GENIUS 法案(S.1582)。眾議院則需將該案與自家的 STABLE Act 協調。經多次討論,最終為求加速立法,眾院直接表決參院版本並於 7 月 17 日以 308-122 高票通過,獲得多數共和黨及數十名民主黨支持,顯見加密產業極力打造兩黨合作形象。(值得注意的是,前一年民主黨主導時,眾院版法案就卡在參議院未果,政策轉變成解決立法僵局的關鍵。)
川普總統於隔天 7 月 18 日簽署生效。白宮簽署現場氣氛慶祝,總統更宣示“加密周”,同時國會亦推動相關法案(如加密市場結構整體改革與禁發央行數位貨幣 CBDC)。典禮上,川普稱 GENIUS 法案是“奠定美國金融和加密科創主導地位的里程碑”,強調美國將於金融科技引領潮流,不會讓中國或歐洲超越。多位議員如 Tim Scott 亦呼應,稱這是“確保美國於支付創新維持領頭地位並保護消費者的重大進展”。支持者相信,此法案將讓美國穩定幣成為全球標竿,吸引創新與投資落地美國。
當然,法案過程並非毫無爭議。國會內部──主要是民主黨──提出諸多質疑。有民主黨人批評 GENIUS 法案“監管力道不足”,恐對金融體系構成長遠風險,甚至讓大型企業發行自家私人貨幣。他們認為該法案允許科技或商業巨頭涉足貨幣發行,本質上削弱傳統銀行系統。(雖然法案仍對非金融企業作出限制,需特別核准方能成為發行人,但質疑者認為門檻仍太低。)其他人則質疑法案未強制發行人須成為具 FDIC 保險的銀行,而這原本是強化安全性的重要主張。前一屆主導相關立法的 Maxine Waters 議員則認為最終版本草率通過,缺乏過去草案內設的消費者保障條款。
利益衝突也一度成為爭議焦點。民主黨舉出川普本人與加密界有關聯,據傳家族企業持有新穩定幣(名為 USD1,由 World Liberty Financial 發行)的股份,質疑總統可能藉推動穩定幣獲益。再者,現行法律僅要求公開持有超過 5,000 美元的相關資產,並未明文禁止在任總統擁有加密資產。白宮則強調川普資產已託管,否認有任何利益衝突。儘管如此,行政部門大動作推進有利加密法規,川普家族又同時發幣及涉足加密金融,仍令外界側目。包括路透社在內的媒體報導,正因川普涉足加密業,以及是否“迎合產業大戶”,一度差點讓支持聯盟分裂。最終,多數民主黨認同 GENIUS 法案強化消費者保障條款(另外或因納入要求官員持幣資訊公開),選擇與共和黨合作,共同通過法案。 it。最終表決結果顯示,雖然眾議院有122位成員(多數為民主黨人)反對,但整體來看,法案獲得了兩黨的廣泛支持,多數人認為這項法案是必要的。
值得注意的是,眾議院與參議院版本之間的多項妥協形塑了最終的法案。例如,眾議院版本的STABLE法案曾提議對「內生抵押穩定幣」實施兩年暫停令——基本上,是對非完全以實體資產作為支撐的演算法穩定幣暫時禁令。而最終成為法律的GENIUS法案並未直接禁令,而是指示財政部應在一年內研究非法幣支持的穩定幣(例如以加密資產作為抵押的代幣)。這反映出一種折衷:既回應了對另一個Terra式演算法穩定幣事件的憂慮,同時又不至於完全凍結該領域的創新。另一個討論焦點,在於非金融公司(例如大型科技公司)是否應能發行穩定幣。最終法律採取了折衷路線:原則上禁止商業(非金融)公司成為發行人,除非最高監管委員會一致同意給予個案豁免。對比之下,眾議院法案並未明確限制大型科技企業發行穩定幣。在這點上,是參議院/GENIUS版本勝出,這很可能受到銀行遊說影響,以及兩黨共識認為「大型科技和大型金融」結合會增加風險。事實上,美國獨立社區銀行家協會(ICBA)曾遊說「禁止大型科技或其他商業企業發行、或與穩定幣發行人有關聯」——GENIUS法案大致上回應了這一優先事項。
總結來說,GENIUS法案的通過,是產業支持、地緣政治野心及政治妥協共振的產物。加密產業在2024年大選投入超過1億美元,支持親加密貨幣候選人,這些投入很明顯收到了回報,相關立法議程因此獲得推進。同時,政策制定者(跨黨派)也真切擔憂,若不採取行動,穩定幣未來要麼造成危機,要麼被外國政權主導。正如參議員Lummis所言:「我們無法承受美元支持的穩定幣遊走於監管漏洞之外——這牽涉美國創新與美元主導地位。」在高層支持及妥協方案下,法案迅速通過。現在,我們來分解GENIUS法案的實際內容。
GENIUS法案重點條款
GENIUS法案在美國建立了涵蓋「支付型穩定幣」的完整法律架構。以下是新法下最重要的條文及規定:
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「支付型穩定幣」定義: 法案定義支付型穩定幣為記錄於分散式帳本、作為支付或結算用途,且可隨時按穩定國家貨幣面值(例如1美元)贖回的數位資產。簡言之,就是像USD₮或USD₵這類可作為現金使用的代幣。定義明確排除已屬法定貨幣、銀行存款、證券或商品的項目。透過此分類,法律明確宣示穩定幣既非證券也非商品,消除了重大不確定性——例如,美國證券交易委員會曾暗示某些穩定幣可能屬於證券;現在法案明訂其不屬,改以新設的支付工具監管架構納管。
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誰可以發行穩定幣(合格發行人): 未經合格支付型穩定幣發行人(PPSI)認證,任何人在美國發行支付型穩定幣都屬非法。法案規定成為合格發行人有三種管道:
- 銀行子公司: 受保保管金融機構(即銀行或信用合作社)可由子公司發行穩定幣,須獲聯邦銀行監管機關批准。
- 非銀行公司經聯邦特許: 非銀行實體(或無保險全國銀行、外國銀行分行)可向貨幣監理署(OCC)申請成為穩定幣發行人,OCC將賦予其新型態有限用途信託公司特許(僅限穩定幣業務,無保險狀態)。重點是,非銀行發行人原則上必須屬金融本業——法案限制上市非金融公司發行,除非最高監管機關一致同意豁免。換句話說,大型科技或其他商業公司不能隨意成為穩定幣發行人;預期只有金融業者(如金融科技、支付公司等)會申請,非金融業者若欲例外,需財政部、聯準會及FDIC三位首長共同簽字。
- 州主管監管的發行人(針對中小型業者): 未來未發行超過100億美元金額之非銀行穩定幣業者,如所屬州有制定「實質等同」聯邦標準之監管體系,可選擇受州監督。這類發行人須向州穩定幣監理機關(如州銀行局)申請執照。為避免監管套利,聯邦將設立穩定幣認證審查委員會(SCRC,由財政部長、聯準會主席、FDIC主席組成),負責認證各州規範是否符合聯邦標準。州政府有一年時間設制度,若得認證,該執照發行人可全國營運。但大型業者(10B美元以上)不得僅受州監理——發行量一旦突破門檻,須轉為聯邦規管。此外,已受保保險的銀行及OCC特許業者,不能使用州選項,必須受聯邦督導。
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過渡緩衝期: 考量穩定幣已廣泛流通,法律設有較寬鬆的過度適用期。法案生效日為立法通過後18個月或監管機關發布終版規範後120天,以兩者較早者為準,實際上預期2026年底方全面生效。此外,對二級市場還有額外緩衝:立法後3年內,任何進行穩定幣交易的交易所或託管機構,須確認僅經手合規(經批准)之穩定幣。這等於給未受規管的穩定幣3年時間來申請合規或退出美國市場。此期間亦是監管機關完備細則、企業準備申請的過程。如此長時程設計,是為避免加密市場劇變——允許Tether、USD₮等現存主流穩定幣有時間合規或有序退場,避免一刀砍掉。律師事務所評析指出,該規定「反映現實」,即穩定幣已根深柢固,必須有條不紊地轉型。
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準備金要求——1:1安全資產: 每一單位支付型穩定幣都必須 100% 由高品質流動資產作為準備金支持。法案要求每發行1美元穩定幣,必須持有至少1美元「允許類別」之準備資產。允許的準備資產定義十分嚴格,以保安全與流動性。包括:美國硬幣及現金、受保銀行或信用合作社存款、短天期美國國債、央行票據或回購/逆回購協議、政府貨幣市場基金、央行存放餘額,以及監管當局批准之其他類似低風險、美元計價資產。值得注意的是,該清單明確排除風險較高的資產——任何公司債、股票、加密資產或複雜商品均不能作為準備金。甚至連長天期國債都未被納入,意即準備金須維持現金或現金等價物、價格波動極低。如此設計是為防止準備資產在贖回壓力時貶值或難以變現。準備金再質押用途則嚴格受限,發行人僅能將其用於贖回或短天期回購擔保,不可挪為投資或支付存幣收益。總之,穩定幣發行人運作方式須為全額準備金(non-fractional reserve),而非傳統銀行——每一枚代幣都由現金或等值資產完全作為後盾,理論上杜絕擠兌風險。
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贖回權利與資訊揭露: 為強化用戶信心與發行人問責,法案大幅提升透明度:
- 贖回政策: 發行人必須制定明確政策,允許持有者隨時以1美元面值(或等比例)贖回穩定幣。相關條款(如贖回流程、限制、費用等)須公開揭露並確實執行。確保穩定幣如同真正的美元債權憑證——只要你合法持有,便享有快速兌換現金的法定權利。
- 每月準備金報告: 發行人須按月公布流通代幣總量及準備資產構成。這些報告需由公司高層審核簽章並定期經獨立會計師查核。如發行規模超過500億美元,還須對財報執行年度獨立審計。透明度堪比受監管金融機構申報,彌補了Tether等發行商過去長期遭質疑之處,提高公眾及監理單位對資產支持情形的可視性。
- 禁止發行人對持有人支付利息或收益: 為避免與銀行存款不公平競爭,也為防制資產追收益導致的風險,法案明訂穩定幣發行人不得對持幣者發放利息或獎勵。你的穩定幣僅供儲值,不會自動產生收益(但你可於其他平台出借另議)。Lawmakers and bankers pushed for this ban to prevent a scenario where consumers pull money from banks to hold stablecoins for higher interest. Stablecoins are to serve as a payments medium, not an investment product – so the law explicitly disallows any interest-bearing stablecoin accounts that could mimic bank accounts. (This responded to community banks’ fears that interest-paying stablecoins would “disintermediate” banks by luring away deposits).
立法者與銀行業者推動了這項禁令,目的是為了避免消費者會把資金從銀行領出,只為了持有穩定幣並獲取更高利息。穩定幣的設計是作為支付媒介,而非投資產品——因此,這部法律明確禁止任何可付息的穩定幣帳戶,避免其模仿銀行帳戶的功能。(這也回應了社區銀行對可付息穩定幣會“去中介化”銀行、吸走存款的擔憂)。
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Capital and Liquidity Standards: Though not as heavily capitalized as banks, issuers will face prudential standards. The law instructs federal and state regulators to set tailored capital, liquidity, and risk management rules for stablecoin issuers, proportionate to their business models. Importantly, the Act exempts stablecoin issuers from traditional bank capital requirements like Basel capital ratios. Since issuers are not lending out deposits (hence no credit risk), they don’t need the same equity buffers as banks; however, they may still need to hold some minimal capital to absorb operational losses or unexpected expenses. Regulators will define these specifics in upcoming rulemakings (due within one year of enactment). Issuers will also have to maintain appropriate liquidity (i.e. enough cash or overnight assets to meet redemption surges) and put in place rigorous risk management frameworks (covering operational risks like cybersecurity, fraud, etc.).
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資本與流動性標準: 雖然發行方不像銀行那樣需要大量資本,但仍需遵守審慎標準。法律要求聯邦及州主管機關,根據穩定幣發行方的商業模式,訂立量身訂做的資本、流動性及風險管理規範。值得一提的是,本法豁免穩定幣發行方必須遵守如巴塞爾資本比率等傳統銀行資本要求。由於發行方並未對外放款(因此無信用風險),其實無需像銀行那樣保有大量股本緩衝;但仍可能需要持有最低限度資本,以吸收營運損失或意外開支。這些細節將會在接下來一年內制定的相關規則中明確說明。發行方也必須維持充裕流動性(即足夠現金或隔夜資產以應對兌換高峰),並建立嚴謹的風險管理架構(涵蓋資安、詐欺等營運風險)。
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Regulatory Oversight and Examinations: Once licensed, stablecoin issuers will be subject to ongoing supervision much like other financial institutions:
- Primary Regulator: A permitted issuer under the federal regime will be overseen by the same federal agency that supervises its type of institution – for a bank subsidiary, that might be the Federal Reserve or OCC or FDIC (whichever supervises the parent bank); for a nonbank with an OCC charter, it’s the OCC; for a credit union subsidiary, the NCUA. The law dubs these agencies the “Primary Federal Payment Stablecoin Regulators.” They are empowered to examine issuers’ books, require regular reports, and enforce compliance. If an issuer violates any requirement of the Act or any conditions of its license, regulators can issue enforcement orders or even suspend/revoke the issuer’s permission to operate. This is a significant shift from the previous environment where some stablecoin firms were effectively under no federal supervision. Under GENIUS, regulators can act swiftly if an issuer is taking undue risks or endangering customers.
- State Regulator Oversight: An issuer in the state-regulated path will be supervised by the designated state stablecoin regulator (e.g. a state banking commissioner) in its home state. That state regulator will have primary examination and enforcement authority over the issuer. However, the Fed is given a backstop role: the law allows federal regulators (like the Fed or OCC) to intervene in “unusual and exigent circumstances” if a state-regulated issuer poses a broader risk and the state isn’t acting. States can also voluntarily cede supervision to the Fed if they prefer. This two-tier system aims to respect state innovation while ensuring a federal safety net if something goes awry at a state-licensed issuer. Moreover, any state regime must maintain high standards – if a state’s oversight is deemed insufficient (certification can be revoked by the SCRC), its issuers would lose permission.
- Foreign Issuer Oversight: The Act also tackles how foreign stablecoin issuers can access the U.S. market. A non-U.S. company (say, a European or Asian stablecoin issuer) cannot simply offer its token to U.S. customers unless two conditions are met: (1) its home country has a comparable regulatory framework for stablecoins, and (2) the U.S. Treasury Secretary grants a reciprocity determination for that jurisdiction. The Treasury must set up rules within a year to assess other countries’ regimes. If a foreign regime is deemed equivalent, its licensed issuers can be exempted from needing a U.S. license. Additionally, U.S.-based digital asset service providers (exchanges, custodians) will be forbidden from handling foreign stablecoins that do not meet these standards. In essence, after a phase-in period, only foreign stablecoins from jurisdictions with rigorous oversight will be allowed in U.S. markets, and even those must comply with any U.S. legal orders (like sanctions). This closes a potential loophole where an offshore issuer could bypass U.S. rules – it levels the playing field so that U.S. and foreign issuers face similar compliance burdens if they want access to American customers.
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監管審查與查核: 一旦取得牌照,穩定幣發行方將如同其他金融機構一般,接受持續監理。
- 主要監管機構: 聯邦體系下的核准發行方,將由負責該類機構監管的聯邦機關監督——若為銀行子公司,監管方可能是聯準會、OCC或FDIC(依其母銀行受哪一機關監督而定);若為非銀行、但獲OCC執照者,則由OCC管轄;信用合作社子公司則由NCUA監督。法律將這些機構統稱為“聯邦主要支付穩定幣監管機關”。他們有權查閱發行方帳目、要求定期報告並執行法遵。若發行方違反本法任何規定或其牌照條件,監管機關可出具執法命令,甚至暫停或撤銷其營業許可。這與過去某些穩定幣公司事實上不受聯邦監管的局面,有重大改變。在GENIUS法案下,若發行方採取過度風險或威脅客戶權益,監管單位可迅速出手。
- 州監管機關監督: 走州監管路線的發行方,將由營運州的指定穩定幣監管機關(如州銀行專員)負責監督。該州監管機關對發行方擁有主要查核及執法權。不過,聯準會被賦予後備角色:法律允許聯邦監管機關(如Fed或OCC),於“特殊緊急情況”下,若州監管未作為且事涉更大金融風險時介入。若州政府願意,也可主動把監管權交由聯準會。這兩層結構旨在尊重州的創新空間同時,於州發行方出意外時有聯邦安全網。此外,任何州監管體系必須保持高標準——若州監理被認定不足(可由SCRC撤銷認證),該州發行方將失去經營許可。
- 外國發行方監督: 法案也明確規範外國穩定幣發行方如何進入美國市場。非美國公司(如歐洲或亞洲穩定幣發行方)若要向美國客戶提供其代幣,必須符合兩項條件:(1)其本國擁有等同於美國的穩定幣監管架構,(2)美國財政部長對其轄區發出互惠認定。財政部必須於一年內訂立相關評估外國體系的規則。若外國體系被判定合格,其取得執照的發行方可豁免美國牌照。另外,美國本地的數位資產服務商(如交易所、託管商)不得處理不符這些標準的外國穩定幣。簡言之,緩衝期過後,只有來自嚴格監管法域的外國穩定幣才能進入美國市場,且即便如此,亦須服從任何美國法律命令(如制裁令)。這堵上了海外發行方繞過美國規則的漏洞——讓美國與外國發行方若想取得美國市場機會,須面臨同等合規要求。
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Custody and Investor Protections: The GENIUS Act imposes rules not just on issuers, but also on those who custody stablecoins or their reserves:
- Qualified Custodians: Reserve assets of stablecoins (the cash and treasuries backing them) must be held with regulated custodians – entities that are subject to federal or state banking supervision, or SEC/CFTC regulation. This means an issuer can’t just hold billions of reserves at an unregulated affiliate or offshore account; they must use reputable banks, trust companies, or other regulated custodians to safeguard the reserves. Likewise, if a third-party provides custodial services for customers’ stablecoins (e.g. an exchange holding users’ stablecoins in wallets), that custodian must be a regulated financial entity. By bringing custodians under oversight, the Act seeks to prevent Mt. Gox-style losses of digital assets and ensure reserve funds don’t go missing.
- Segregation of Assets: Custodians (including exchanges or wallets) must segregate customers’ stablecoins from the custodian’s own assets and cannot mix or use them for other purposes. In legal terms, the stablecoins (or reserves) held for customers remain the property of the customers, not the custodian. This is crucial if the custodian goes bankrupt – segregated customer assets shouldn’t be available to the custodian’s creditors. In fact, the Act clarifies that a bank need not list custodial stablecoin assets as liabilities on its balance sheet, reinforcing that they are off-balance-sheet, client-owned funds. This kind of provision was informed by experiences where crypto firms’ bankruptcy left customers fighting to reclaim their coins – GENIUS aims to give customers stronger claims.
- Insolvency Priorities: If despite precautions an issuer were to become insolvent, the law protects stablecoin holders by giving them first priority claim on the reserve assets. In other words, stablecoin holders stand ahead of all other creditors in bankruptcy when it comes to those reserve funds. This ensures that, to the extent possible, the remaining reserve assets are used to redeem coin holders first. The Act also empowers bankruptcy courts to pause (stay) stablecoin redemptions temporarily in insolvency, to allow an orderly liquidation of assets. These measures are akin to how customer brokerage assets are treated in a broker-dealer bankruptcy – customers get priority for a return of their property. (Interestingly, the House’s STABLE Act lacked specific issuer insolvency provisions, so the GENIUS Act’s detailed bankruptcy clarity is a step beyond what some expected.)
- No False Marketing: Issuers are prohibited from using the term “stablecoin” or related names in a way that suggests the coin is government-issued or government-guaranteed. For example, an issuer can’t name their coin “USA Coin” or “FedDollar” if that misleads people to think it’s an official U.S. government currency. This is to prevent any confusion between private stablecoins and an eventual Central Bank Digital Currency (which the Fed might issue someday). Issuers also cannot condition the issuance of a stablecoin on the customer buying some other product – i.e., no tying arrangements like “you can only get our stablecoin if you purchase our company’s stock/token/etc.” Stablecoins must stand on their own as a monetary product.
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託管與投資人保護: GENIUS法案不只規範發行方,也規範託管穩定幣或其儲備資產的主體:
- 合格託管人: 穩定幣的儲備資產(如現金及所支持的國庫券)必須交由受監管的託管機構保管——這些機構需受聯邦或州銀行監理、或SEC/CFTC監理。發行方不得將數十億儲備交由未受監管的關係企業或海外帳戶存放;必須使用受信賴的銀行、信託公司或其他監管託管人加以保護。同樣,若有第三方為客戶穩定幣提供託管服務(例如交易所為用戶錢包保管穩定幣),該託管方也須為受監管金融機構。將託管人納入監督,旨在防止Mt. Gox那類數位資產損失事件與確保儲備資金不致流失。
- 資產分離: 託管人(包含交易所或錢包)須將客戶持有的穩定幣與自身資產嚴格分離,且不得混用或挪為他用。法律上,為客戶持有的穩定幣(或儲備),其所有權屬於客戶,而非託管人本身。這對託管人破產時尤其關鍵——分離資產不得被用來償還託管人債權人。事實上,法案進一步釐清銀行不需將託管穩定幣資產列為資產負債表的負債,強化其為表外、屬於客戶的資產。這項規定來自於過往加密公司破產,客戶必須爭奪追回資產的經驗教訓——GENIUS力求增強客戶資產主張權。
- 破產優先權: 即使採取防範措施後仍有發行方破產,法律也保障穩定幣持有人成為儲備資產清償順位第一債權人。換句話說,在破產時,穩定幣持有人在儲備資金上享有比所有其他債權人更高的優先權,力求剩餘儲備全優先償還持幣人。該法也授權破產法院可在發行方破產時暫停穩定幣兌回,得以有秩序地清算資產。這類機制如同經紀商破產處理客戶資產——客戶對財產返還有優先權。(值得一提的是,眾院版STABLE法案並無針對發行方破產特定條款,因此GENIUS的清晰破產定位超出過往期待。)
- 禁止虛假行銷: 發行方不得以“穩定幣”或近似名稱,誤導大眾以為該幣受政府發行或政府擔保。例如,發行方不得將其命名為“USA Coin”或“FedDollar”,誘使大眾誤認其為官方貨幣。這是為了避免私人穩定幣日後被與中央銀行數位貨幣(未來或許有機會由Fed發行)混淆。發行方也不得將發行穩定幣的條件,與客戶購買其他商品掛鉤——即不得如“僅購買本公司股票/代幣即附贈穩定幣”這種捆綁銷售。穩定幣本身須作為貨幣產品獨立存在。
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Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Sanctions Compliance: A major focus of the Act is plugging the gap in financial crime compliance. Stablecoin issuers will be treated as “financial institutions” under the Bank Secrecy Act, meaning they must implement full AML programs – verifying customer identities (KYC), monitoring transactions for illicit activity, filing Suspicious Activity Reports, etc.. The law directs FinCEN (the Treasury’s financial crimes unit) to develop tailored AML rules for digital assets within three years. It specifically asks FinCEN to explore “novel methods” of detecting illicit crypto transactions, acknowledging that traditional AML techniques may need adaptation to blockchain (think advanced blockchain analytics tools, AI monitoring of wallets, etc.). Issuers must certify that they have robust AML and sanctions compliance programs in place. Furthermore, anyone convicted of certain financial crimes (like money laundering, fraud, etc.) is barred from serving as an officer or director of a stablecoin issuer – an integrity measure to keep bad actors out of positions of control. Together, these provisions aim to prevent stablecoins from becoming a haven for illicit finance, addressing concerns that criminals or sanctioned entities could otherwise abuse anonymous stablecoin transfers. Notably, the Act also levels the playing field on AML for foreign issuers: overseas stablecoins entering the U.S. must comply with equivalent AML/sanctions standards, so foreign issuers can’t gain advantage by being lax on compliance.
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反洗錢(AML)與制裁遵循: 法案重點之一是填補金融犯罪合規漏洞。穩定幣發行方將依《銀行保密法》被視為“金融機構”,必須落實完整AML方案,包括驗證客戶身分(KYC)、監控可疑交易、申報可疑活動報告等。法律指示財政部下屬金融犯罪執行處(FinCEN)需於三年內制定數位資產量身訂做的AML規則。法案也特別要求FinCEN探討識別非法加密交易的“新穎方法”,充分認知到傳統AML技巧須配合區塊鏈特性調整(例如進階鏈上數據分析工具、AI錢包行為監控等)。發行方須保證其AML及制裁遵循機制健全。更進一步,若某人因洗錢、詐欺等重大金融犯罪定罪,則不得擔任穩定幣發行方高管或董事,從源頭防堵不法份子進入決策層。一系列規範意在防範穩定幣被用作非法金融避風港,解決犯罪集團及受制裁對象藉匿名穩定幣轉移資金的隱憂。值得注意的是,法案也將境外發行方AML要求拉齊:進入美國的海外穩定幣必須做到同等AML/制裁合規,外國發行方不得因境外寬鬆而規避美國標準。
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Banks and Stablecoins – New Permissions: The Act not only regulates new stablecoin issuers, it also explicitly allows traditional banks to engage with stablecoins in certain ways, which previously had been legally ambiguous. Under GENIUS:
- Banks can hold stablecoins in custody for customers and hold stablecoin reserve assets as deposits. Community banks were concerned they
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銀行與穩定幣—新授權: 法案除規範新興穩定幣發行方外,亦明文賦予傳統銀行能以特定方式參與穩定幣業務,這在過去法律上較為模糊。在GENIUS法案下:
- 銀行可為客戶託管穩定幣,並接受穩定幣儲備資產作為存款。社區銀行曾擔憂他們……might be cut out, but the law ensures banks can serve as custodians of stablecoins (holding customers’ private keys or wallets) and can receive issuers’ reserve cash as regular deposits. In fact, language was added to clarify that banks can use those reserve deposits to conduct normal lending and banking activities, just as they would with any other deposits, which the community banking sector supported.
可能會被刪減,但法律確保銀行可以作為穩定幣的保管人(持有客戶的私鑰或錢包),並且可以將發行方的準備金以一般存款的方式收受。事實上,法條還特別說明,銀行可以像對待其他存款一樣,利用這些準備金進行一般的放款和銀行業務,這一點也得到了社區銀行業的支持。
- 銀行可為客戶託管穩定幣,並接受穩定幣儲備資產作為存款。社區銀行曾擔憂他們……might be cut out, but the law ensures banks can serve as custodians of stablecoins (holding customers’ private keys or wallets) and can receive issuers’ reserve cash as regular deposits. In fact, language was added to clarify that banks can use those reserve deposits to conduct normal lending and banking activities, just as they would with any other deposits, which the community banking sector supported.
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Banks may utilize distributed ledgers and issue “tokenized deposits.” The Act explicitly permits banks to use blockchain technology for payments and to tokenize deposits. A tokenized deposit is essentially a stablecoin issued by a bank, fully backed by deposits at that bank (sometimes called “deposit coins”). By green-lighting this, the law paves the way for major banks to roll out their own digital dollar tokens transferable on blockchain networks. For example, JPMorgan’s internal JPM Coin (used for institutional clients) could be expanded more broadly, and other banks like Citi are exploring issuing their own coins now. Citi’s management noted they were “closely monitoring developments… exploring options around issuing our own…coin” in light of stablecoin legislation. This provision essentially integrates stablecoins into the traditional banking system by acknowledging tokenized bank deposits as part of the regulatory framework.
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銀行可運用分散式帳本並發行「代幣化存款」。 法案明確允許銀行使用區塊鏈技術進行支付和存款代幣化。代幣化存款本質上是銀行發行、完全由該銀行存款支持的穩定幣(有時稱作「存款幣」)。這項批准預示著主要銀行能夠推出屬於自己的區塊鏈可轉移的數位美元代幣。例如,摩根大通的 JPM Coin(目前用於機構客戶)未來可擴大應用,包括花旗等其他銀行現也在探索發行自家幣種的可能。花旗管理層在穩定幣立法背景下亦指出,他們「密切關注相關發展……正考慮發行自家……代幣的選項」。這條規定本質上就是將穩定幣納入傳統銀行體系,將代幣化的銀行存款納入監管架構。
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Other Notable Provisions:
- Disclosure by Government Officials: To address ethical concerns, the law requires the President, Vice President, and executive branch employees to publicly report any stablecoin holdings over $5,000 (similar to how they report stocks). This transparency is intended to highlight and manage any conflicts of interest – a direct response to criticisms that the Trump family’s crypto interests could pose conflicts. While it doesn’t forbid holdings, it at least forces disclosure.
- 其他重要條文:
- 政府官員須揭露持幣情況: 為解決道德疑慮,法案規定總統、副總統及行政部門員工需公開申報持有價值超過 5,000 美元的穩定幣(類似於股票持有申報)。此舉旨在揭露並管理潛在利益衝突——直接回應過去針對川普家族加密貨幣利益可能產生衝突的批評。雖未禁止持有,但至少必須揭露。
- No Federal Insurance: The Act clarifies that stablecoins are not insured by the federal government (unlike bank deposits which have FDIC insurance). Issuers must likely disclose this fact. Consumers should understand that while an issuer must hold safe reserves, if those reserves somehow fail, there is no government bailout guarantee. The safety net is the strict oversight and asset requirements, not insurance.
- 無聯邦保險: 法案明確指出,穩定幣不受聯邦政府保險保障(與有 FDIC 保險的銀行存款不同)。發行方必須揭露此事實。消費者應理解,儘管發行方需持有安全準備金,但若這些準備金失守,政府並不會出手救助。其安全機制來自嚴格監管與資產規範,而非保險本身。
- Preemption of State Law: The federal framework sets a floor for standards, but it also generally preempts states from imposing conflicting requirements on stablecoin issuers, especially for those under federal oversight. States can have their regime if certified, but they can’t undermine federal rules. This ensures a uniform baseline across the country.
- 州法從屬聯邦法: 聯邦架構訂出基本標準,通常也限制州政府對穩定幣發行方施加相衝突的要求,尤其是接受聯邦監管者。經過認證的州可訂自家規定,但不得違反聯邦規則。如此能確保全國基本標準一致。
- Study on “Non-payment Stablecoins”: Beyond the immediate scope, the Act orders regulators to study other crypto tokens that are not used primarily for payments (possibly referring to things like algorithmic or asset-backed tokens outside the dollar realm) including those “endogenously” backed by other cryptos. The results could inform future legislation on those products.
- 非支付型穩定幣的研究: 除了直接範疇外,法案要求監管單位研究不是以支付為主用途的穩定幣(可能指像演算法或非美元資產支撐的代幣),以及用其他加密貨幣「內生」支撐的代幣。未來這些研究成果可作為立法參考。
In effect, the GENIUS Act brings stablecoins from a largely unregulated sphere into something akin to a federally regulated e-money system. It draws clear boundaries: Only approved, well-supervised entities may issue U.S. dollar stablecoins; those coins must be fully backed by safe assets; and the entire lifecycle (issuance, custody, usage) is subject to oversight and compliance rules. The penalty for violation is steep – issuing a payment stablecoin without a license or transacting in unapproved stablecoins after the grace period will be unlawful, inviting regulatory enforcement and penalties. This effectively outlaws the “wildcat” era of stablecoin issuance and forces the industry onto a regulated footing. 事實上,GENIUS 法案把穩定幣從幾乎未受規管的領域,轉變為類似於聯邦規範的電子貨幣體系。法律明確劃定界線:只有獲批准且受嚴格監管的機構可發行美元穩定幣,這些幣須完全由安全資產支持,整個生命週期(發行、保管、使用)都必須接受監管與規範。違反者後果嚴重——未持牌發行支付型穩定幣,或在寬限期後交易未經批准穩定幣,均屬違法,將面臨監管處罰。這等於結束了穩定幣「野貓時代」,強迫產業走向合規管理。
Impacts on the Market and Industry
對市場與產業的影響
The GENIUS Act is poised to significantly reshape the stablecoin landscape and reverberate through the crypto industry and beyond. Here’s how various stakeholders and aspects of the market are likely to be affected: GENIUS 法案預計將大幅重塑穩定幣格局,並對加密貨幣產業乃至更多領域產生廣泛影響。以下是市場各方與產業層面可能受影響情形:
1. Stablecoin Issuers – Winners and Losers:
1. 穩定幣發行方——贏家與輸家:
The new regime will likely elevate certain stablecoin providers while pressuring others:
新法規體制將讓部分穩定幣發行方脫穎而出,另一些則面臨壓力:
- U.S.-based compliant issuers like Circle (issuer of USD Coin, USDC) are positioned to gain a competitive edge. Circle has been a vocal supporter of regulation – its Chief Strategy Officer termed stablecoins “digital dollars” and backed the Act’s passage. With clear laws in place, Circle can now seek a federal license or national trust charter to firmly establish USDC as an approved stablecoin. This could increase trust among institutions and users, potentially growing USDC’s market share. Circle’s CEO praised the Act as bringing stablecoins into the mainstream safely, and indeed Circle’s business model of fully reserved, transparent reserves aligns well with the Act’s requirements (it already provides monthly reserve attestations).
- 以美國為據、合規的發行商(如 USDC 發行方 Circle)將獲得競爭優勢。Circle 一直積極支持監管——其策略長稱穩定幣是「數位美元」,並支持法案過關。明確法律基礎下,Circle 可申請聯邦許可或國家信託章照,進一步鞏固 USDC 的合規地位,提升機構和用戶信任,有望推動 USDC 市佔成長。Circle 執行長也稱讚法案讓穩定幣安全進入主流,而 Circle 完全準備金、透明揭露的商業模式本就高度契合法案要求(其已每月發布準備金鑑證)。
- Traditional financial institutions and fintechs are now empowered to enter the stablecoin arena. Big banks like JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup had been experimenting with blockchain-based coins internally; the Act explicitly permits them to issue or use stablecoins more broadly. Citi’s CEO Jane Fraser indicated the bank is considering issuing its own coin and is developing digital currency capabilities in anticipation of new law. With regulatory clarity, we may soon see major banks launching bank-backed stablecoins or tokenized deposits for their corporate and retail clients, bringing massive balance sheets into play. Fintech companies and payment firms (PayPal, fintech banks, etc.) may also apply for stablecoin issuer licenses or partner with banks to issue coins. Walmart and Amazon – big tech-related companies mentioned as exploring stablecoins – could now pursue projects via a financial subsidiary or partnership, though they’d need regulatory nods. One industry expert said new legislation would “open the floodgates” for more companies to dive in. In essence, the Act legitimizes stablecoins and invites well-capitalized players to participate, which could greatly expand the stablecoin supply and adoption in coming years.
- 傳統金融機構及金融科技業者現可正式進軍穩定幣領域。摩根大通、花旗等大銀行本就內部測試區塊鏈代幣,法案更明文允許其發行或更廣泛應用穩定幣。花旗 CEO Jane Fraser 亦表示,銀行正籌劃發行自家幣並預作數位貨幣布局。隨監管明朗,未來不排除大型銀行為企用/散戶推出銀行系穩定幣或代幣化存款,動員巨額資產表。Fintech 如 PayPal、金融科技銀行等,也可申請發行牌照,或與銀行合作發行幣。沃爾瑪、亞馬遜等科技巨頭原本就有研擬穩定幣的消息,如今可透過金融子公司或合作方式進行專案,當然仍須監管許可。有產業專家甚至形容新法「將大開水閘」,讓更多企業進場。簡而言之,法案讓穩定幣獲官方認可,吸引資本充足玩家投入,未來穩定幣供應及採用有望大幅增長。
- On the other hand, offshore and non-compliant stablecoins face an ultimatum. Chief among these is Tether’s USDT, by far the largest stablecoin globally. Tether Ltd. is based outside the U.S. and has operated without U.S. regulatory approval. Under GENIUS, by roughly 2028 (3 years post-enactment), U.S. exchanges and businesses will be prohibited from offering USDT or any unapproved stablecoin. This means Tether must either come into compliance – e.g. by dramatically increasing transparency and possibly seeking U.S. oversight – or risk losing access to the U.S. market entirely. Given Tether’s historically opaque reserve reporting and its principals’ aversion to disclosure, it’s questionable if they would (or could) meet GENIUS standards (such as monthly certified reserve reports, full 1:1 backing in specified assets, U.S. oversight, etc.). If not, exchanges like Coinbase and Kraken would have to delist USDT for U.S. users within three years, and users could be barred from transacting USDT on U.S.-based platforms. That could significantly erode Tether’s dominance, especially if global users shift toward coins that are seen as safer and regulator-approved (like USDC or new bank coins). Observers have noted that the Act “win(s) big” for Circle and U.S. issuers, while putting Tether at a crossroads. Tether might remain popular in markets abroad that distrust government oversight, but its growth prospects would be limited without U.S. institutional adoption. In short, the days of Tether’s near-monopoly might be numbered, as regulated alternatives proliferate.
- 反之,海外及不合規穩定幣正面臨最終選擇。首當其衝者便是全球最大穩定幣 USDT,其運營公司 Tether Ltd. 設在美國境外,過往未獲美國監管認可。根據 GENIUS 法案,約於 2028 年(法案生效後 3 年),美國交易所與商家將不得提供 USDT 或任何未獲批准穩定幣服務。這代表 Tether 必須合規化,如顯著提升透明度並主動接受美國監管,否則將徹底失去美國市場。然而 Tether 長期以來準備金資訊不公開,主要負責人也拒絕揭露,很難預期其能否(或願否)達到如每月經審核準備金報告、1:1 指定資產擔保、美方監理等 GENIUS 要求。否則,如 Coinbase、Kraken 等交易所就得在三年內下架 USDT 供美國用戶交易,用戶也將被禁止於美國平台上進行 USDT 交易。這將極大削弱 Tether 的主導地位,尤其當全球用戶已轉向法規認可、安全性高幣種(如 USDC 或新銀行幣)。不少觀察者指出,本法是 Circle 及美國發行商的重大勝利,也將 Tether 推上抉擇之路。Tether 或仍可在厭惡政府監理的海外市場盛行,但若無美國機構採用,其成長空間將受限。可見 Tether 壟斷穩定幣的時代恐將結束,未來合規替代幣種將大量湧現。
- Algorithmic and crypto-collateralized stablecoins (like DAI, which is backed partly by crypto assets, or any future algorithmic coins) will face increased scrutiny. The Act’s study on endogenous stablecoins suggests regulators may later apply specific rules or restrictions on them. In the interim, these projects may not fall under the “payment stablecoin” definition if they aren’t directly redeemable for fiat; however, if widely used as payment, they could be targeted. For example, DAI is a stablecoin pegged to USD but backed by a basket of assets (including USDC itself and Ether). Since DAI can be redeemed for $1 worth of collateral (not guaranteed $1 cash), it’s not a pure payment stablecoin under the Act’s definition. Still, its issuer (MakerDAO, a decentralized protocol) might be considered an unregulated issuer if DAI is used in commerce. This ambiguity means decentralized stablecoin projects might try to adjust – possibly by decentralizing further (to avoid having a identifiable “issuer”) or by limiting U.S. user access to avoid legal issues. Their market share could diminish if users and exchanges favor fully compliant coins to avoid legal risk. Conversely, some crypto purists might continue using decentralized stablecoins as a form of resistance to government-controlled money, but likely at the margins if mainstream adoption tilts to regulated coins.
- 演算法及加密資產擔保的穩定幣(如部分以加密資產擔保的 DAI 或未來各種演算法穩定幣)將面臨更嚴格檢視。法案要求研究「內生」穩定幣,顯示未來監管當局可能針對此類產品制定額外規定或限制。在過渡期間,若這類幣種不能直接兌換法幣,尚不算「支付型穩定幣」;但如被廣泛用於支付,亦可能成為施監對象。例如 DAI 以美元為標準、由多種資產(含 USDC、ETH 等)擔保,可以以一籃子資產兌換至 1 美元價值(而非保證 1 美元現金),所以仍非純「支付型穩定幣」。然而其發行機制(MakerDAO 去中心化協議)若被認定為商業用途的未受監管發行方,則可能觸法。這種模糊空間也促使去中心化穩定幣項目同步調整——如進一步去中心化(避免出現可辨識的「發行方」),或嚴格限制美國用戶而避開法律問題。若用戶與交易所為避法規風險而傾向完全合規幣,其市場占比將下滑。當然,部份極端加密愛好者可能持續用去中心化幣作為對抗政府管控貨幣的標誌,但若主流用戶傾向合法合規,這些用途將被邊緣化。
- New entrants: The Act creates a clear pathway, so we might see new stablecoin startups emerging – for instance, fintech entrepreneurs launching fully compliant stablecoin firms under state regimes or applying to OCC. Some states (like New York, which already had stablecoin guidance under BitLicense, or Wyoming, which is crypto-friendly) might act quickly to become hubs for state-regulated issuers. Competition could increase as multiple regulated coins enter the market, potentially narrowing spreads and improving services (e.g. faster redemptions, better integrations). However, the high compliance costs (capital, audits, etc.) might limit successful entrants to those with significant financial backing.
- 新進者: 法案提供明確路徑,預計將出現新穩定幣創業團隊——如金融科技業者依州法啟動合規穩定幣公司,或申請 OCC 監管等。有些州(如已擁有 BitLicense 規範的紐約、強力支持加密的懷俄明)或會迅速成為州監管發行方集散地。隨著多個合規幣種競爭,市場利差可望縮小,服務(如兌換速度、系統整合)將改善。但較高合規成本(資本、審計等)也可能使未來成功進場者限於資金雄厚公司。
2. Crypto Exchanges and Service Providers:
2. 加密貨幣交易所與服務供應商:
Exchanges, trading platforms, and wallet providers will have to adapt their offerings. In the near term (next 1–2
交易所、交易平台與錢包業者將必須調整其產品/服務。短期(未來 1–2...years),他們可以在新規則逐步落實期間,繼續支援現有的穩定幣。不過中期來看:
- 美國本地的交易所(Coinbase、Kraken、Gemini 等)很可能會統一選用少數獲批的穩定幣作為標準。我們可以預期,他們會強力推廣像 USDC 這樣的幣(尤其是 Coinbase,因為其為 USDC 的共同創辦人),並且也會推廣由受監管機構發行的任何新穩定幣,甚至包含他們自己的—例如 Gemini 現在已經在紐約監管下發行 GUSD,未來還可能尋求聯邦核准拓展規模。這些交易所也必須在 2028 年前下架或針對未合規的穩定幣做地區封鎖。如果 Tether(USDT)持續不透明,極有可能會在美國被下架。規模較小或較新的穩定幣(不符合法案嚴格的「支付型穩定幣」定義或未獲核准者),則根本不會向美國用戶供應。至於像數位歐元代幣或來自未經認證國家的國外穩定幣,美國交易所也將避免上架,除非財政部另行開綠燈。
- 市場流動性 可能會向受監管的穩定幣集中。如果 USDT 在美國的使用量減少,交易對會轉向 USDC 或其他獲批幣種。這反而可能提升這些穩定幣的流動性,因為機構投資人更願意使用經政府監督且透明的幣種。在法案通過眾議院後,Coinbase 股價立即上漲,推測原因正是預期監管清晰後,加密貨幣交易活動會增加,並可能推出新產品,而無需擔憂違法風險。
- 境外交易所與 DeFi 協議 服務美國用戶時將面臨取捨:要嘛確保僅有核准穩定幣可用,要嘛就對美國用戶設地區封鎖。由於美國市場龐大,多數全球性的中心化交易所(如 Binance.US 等)會選擇合規。真正去中心化的交易所較難落實監管—法律主要針對「為獲取報酬而交易」穩定幣的主體進行監管(即針對企業,而非個人)。DeFi 協議本身並非易於追訴的實體,但任何美國本地的操作介面或設有節點的美國人則可能受限。預期監管機構將發布指引,規定即使是在 DeFi 領域,仲介者(如前端運營方)也不能在寬限期結束後提供未獲授權穩定幣交易。若用戶仍欲使用非合規穩定幣,部分 DeFi 活動可能被逼移往境外或地下。不過,主流 DeFi 領域也可能隨之調整,只接納白名單、合規的穩定幣。其實,受監管的穩定幣反而能讓機構放心進軍 DeFi,因為幣種本身有審計、可兌回,有望帶動機構級 DeFi 發展(如 Aave 或 Compound 的 USDC 或其他合規幣之池)。
3. 消費者與加密用戶:
對一般穩定幣用戶而言,這些政策在實務上可能感受不深,但信任度將產生重大變化:
- 你很快就有機會選用更多「官方」發行的穩定幣,包括由你熟悉的品牌機構(銀行或知名金融科技公司)發行的幣。這些幣很可能會主打更安全、更可信—完全由準備金支持,有監管機關監督,並明確承諾兌回保證。隨時間推進,使用者或會像將貨幣市場基金視為等同現金一樣,對這些穩定幣建立起存款與支付的習慣。事實上,隨著穩定幣資訊揭露與審計變成標準,市場信心應提升。當發行方都做到「$1 代幣=$1 現金準備」且每月公開帳目,投資人對「穩定幣爆雷」的恐懼也該大幅減弱。
- 反面則是彈性與匿名性略減。 目前,某些平台用戶可不經完整 KYC 取得像是 Tether 的海外穩定幣,發行方也不常動輒凍結資產。而新制度下,所有受監管的穩定幣都會強制收集 KYC 資訊(發行與兌回時),發行方也必須配合執法(如凍結與犯罪、制裁有關的資產)。事實上,像 Circle 這樣的受監管發行商已經根據美國政府要求凍結地址(例如 Tornado Cash 的制裁案件)。這項能力正式成為監管常態。所以,如果用戶從事違法或灰色用途,穩定幣資產就會非常容易受管控—地址一旦進黑名單,這些代幣可被行政凍結。對守法用戶來說影響不大,反而提升被盜/詐騙的保障;但對重視穩定幣「抗審查數位現金」屬性的人來說,這將是種失落。
- 用戶的成本與速度 仍將維持既有優勢。法律本身沒有直接對穩定幣交易增設手續費。甚至由於競爭及與銀行系統整合,更可能壓低費用(如銀行發穩定幣後,資金搬移成本可比現有銀行帳戶間轉帳免費)。穩定幣在跨國匯款上的運用也可能激增,幫助用戶享有更快結算與相較傳統管道更低成本。這部法案本質上進一步正當化這類應用的合法性。
- 可近性: 越來越多主流公司可望將穩定幣納入自家應用程式(如想像 PayPal 或 CashApp 原生支持合規穩定幣),讓一般民眾能在不進交易所的情況下輕鬆用穩定幣。過去金融科技公司因監管不確定性觀望,現在終於能放心啟動所謂「USD 2.0」產品。不過,部分企業恐怕還會等到 2026 年相關細則完全訂妥後才會正式推出服務。
4. 整體加密產業:
GENIUS 法案被視為加密產業「正名」的一大勝利,這是聯邦層首次有法規真正擁抱(而非限制)加密世界中的一個領域。產業倡議者認為它提供了急需的清晰框架,能吸引更多投資與用戶投入美國項目。主要影響如:
- 市場情緒與價格: 法案通過後,加密貨幣市場隨即上揚。比特幣(當時約 $120,000)與以太幣(約 $3,500)價格都因「友善加密立法」將推動採用的預期而上漲。Coinbase 及其他加密相關上市公司股價也大漲,顯示投資人對監管風險減緩有信心。長期來看,明確的規則有助於化解壓抑幣值的「監管 FUD」(恐懼、疑慮、不確定)。現在穩定幣這個重要流動性工具有了法律地位,美國加密公司經營變得更容易(例如加密公司與銀行的往來關係會改善,因銀行知道穩定幣業務依法受監管)。這有望促進交易量和資本流入行業。
- 創新與新產品: 隨著法律框架上路,開發者及公司可以更放心地用穩定幣開發產品,不必再伺機等風頭過。此外,去中心化金融(DeFi)協議將可整合合規穩定幣,甚至和受監管發行商合作,開啟「合規 DeFi」甚至傳統金融機構與 DeFi 合作的新可能。我們可能會看到各種新型金融商品(如鏈上借貸、支付網路、結算系統)基於法律認可的穩定幣出現。Mastercard 加密負責人就指出,穩定幣正處於「關鍵轉捩點」,法案是「新紀元」的信號。有了清楚的法律地位,越來越多企業可接受穩定幣付款—如電商甚至薪資發放,因為法律與會計處理也一併明朗。
- 全球競爭格局: 美國正塑造自己在穩定幣監管上的全球領導地位,並有望影響其他司法轄區。立法目標是讓美國合規穩定幣成為世界標準,由此輸出美國金融規範並強化美元勢力。其他國家可能仿效(就像美國銀行監理常常設定全球基準一樣)。值得注意的是,歐盟剛透過 MiCA 法規規範所謂「資產掛鉤代幣」,對歐元掛鉤穩定幣也有類似準備金與監督規則。英國也在努力將穩定幣納入其支付體系。GENIUS 法案可能引發各國搶奪穩定幣發行商進駐美國的競賽—而美國現在有吸引力且全面的體系,能吸引原本選擇設在海外的項目選擇美國為家,這也有機會扭轉過去「人才外流」的現象。
5. 美國金融體系與美元政策:
除了加密產業外,穩定幣監管對傳統金融體系和美國經濟政策亦有深遠影響:
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美元主導權與貨幣政策: 立法者明確表示,此法案是為強化美元的全球主導地位。方法是什麼?以美元計價且在全球廣泛使用的穩定幣,等於擴張了美元化範圍。例如,在貨幣動盪的國家,民眾原就喜歡用美元穩定幣(如 USDT)避險。有了受監管的美國穩定幣後,大家更敢當成信賴的美元替代品。這可能提升全球對美元及其資產的需求(因為每顆穩定幣都代表儲備池內有一枚美元或國債)。本質上來說,私人發行的穩定幣就是美國軟實力的工具,擴展美元於數位領域的使用,甚至可能壓過未來潛在的競爭對手like China’s digital yuan. President Trump emphasized this aspect, saying the Act puts the U.S. “lightyears ahead of China” in the crypto finance race.
像中國的數位人民幣。川普總統強調了這一點,表示該法案讓美國在加密金融競賽中「遙遙領先中國」。 -
Demand for Treasuries: A perhaps underappreciated effect is that stablecoin reserves will largely be invested in U.S. Treasury bills, creating a new, growing class of Treasury buyers. Tether and Circle already park tens of billions in T-bills. With the Act’s blessing, stablecoin issuers (including new bank entrants) could scale up dramatically, pouring even more into short-term Treasuries. This helps finance U.S. government debt at the margin. Some analysts have speculated this was a strategic motive – if foreign governments (like China or Japan) buy fewer Treasuries, private stablecoin issuers might fill some gap by purchasing hundreds of billions in T-bills to back their coins. In effect, the U.S. could indirectly fund deficits by harnessing global demand for dollar stablecoins. However, this dynamic also comes with a caveat: if stablecoin holders en masse redeem during stress, issuers might rapidly sell Treasuries, which could pressure the Treasury market in a crisis. Regulators considered this, which is why only very short-duration T-bills (closest to cash) are allowed, and why they built in bankruptcy stays to manage an unwinding in an orderly way.
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對美國國債的需求: 也許被低估的影響之一,是穩定幣的儲備大多會投資於美國國債,從而創造了一個新興且成長中的國債買家群體。Tether 與 Circle 已經將數百億美元停泊在美國國庫券中。有了此法案的加持,穩定幣發行商(包括新進入市場的銀行)可以大幅擴張,投入更多資金於短期國債。這在邊際上有助於資助美國政府債務。有分析師推測,這裡面也有策略上的動機——如果外國政府(如中國或日本)減少購買美國國債,私人穩定幣發行商可能購買數千億美元的短期國債來支撐其代幣,彌補部分缺口。實際上,美國可以藉由全球對美元穩定幣的需求,間接為赤字融資。但這種動態也有警訊:一旦市場壓力激增,穩定幣持有者大量贖回,發行商可能會迅速拋售國債,導致危機時國債市場承壓。監管機構考量到這點,因此僅允許期限極短、最接近現金的國庫券,並設計了破產暫緩措施,確保若須平穩退場時能有序進行。
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Banking System: Banks were initially wary that stablecoins could siphon off deposits. The Act addressed that by banning interest on stablecoins and by allowing banks to hold reserves (so banks keep the money anyway). Community banks, in particular, got language inserted to ensure they can use stablecoin deposits in lending and that nonbanks don’t get Federal Reserve accounts that would give them an undue advantage. As a result, the banking industry’s trade groups like ICBA moved to neutral or supportive. In the long run, banks could even benefit: they may gain new fee business as custodians or reserve holders for stablecoin issuers, and they can offer their own digital dollar products. Some analysts compare the advent of stablecoins to the money market fund revolution in the 1980s – initially seen as competition for banks, but ultimately the system adjusted with banks offering similar products. Now banks might integrate stablecoins for faster client payments or settlement between institutions (JPMorgan already uses JPM Coin for 24/7 intra-bank transfers). If banks successfully adapt, stablecoins could operate synergistically with banking, with minimal deposit outflows. However, if stablecoins do gain huge traction as a retail payment method, banks might see a gradual shift where people hold more funds in digital wallets (essentially, holding a claim on a stablecoin issuer) versus checking accounts. The no-interest rule limits this, but tech-savvy users might still prefer the flexibility of stablecoins for certain uses. The exact impact will depend on how aggressively banks participate in issuing their own vs. letting fintechs take the lead.
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銀行體系: 銀行一開始擔心穩定幣可能分流銀行存款。法案通過禁止穩定幣給付利息,且允許銀行持有穩定幣儲備(因此資金仍在銀行體系內),以解決這個問題。尤其社區銀行,特別爭取到法案明文保障可將穩定幣存款投入放款業務,並限制非銀行業者開立聯準會帳戶避免不正當優勢。因此銀行業相關公協會如ICBA立場趨於中立甚至支持。長遠來看,銀行還可能受益:可為穩定幣發行商提供託管或儲備服務收取費用,並推出自家數位美元商品。有分析師將穩定幣的到來比擬1980年代貨幣市場基金革命——最初被視為銀行競爭對手,但最終銀行業自我調整,也推出了類似產品。現在銀行甚至可能導入穩定幣,加速顧客支付或機構間結算(摩根大通已24/7以JPM Coin作行內轉帳)。如果銀行順利轉型,穩定幣能與銀行業協同成長,存款外流有限。但若穩定幣作為零售支付工具大受歡迎,銀行可能逐漸面臨資金由支票帳戶轉向數位錢包(等於轉持穩定幣發行商的債權)。雖然法規禁止給利息,但精於數位科技的用戶還是可能偏愛穩定幣某些用途的彈性。具體影響端看銀行是積極自行發行,還是讓金融科技業者領先主導。
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Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC): Interestingly, as GENIUS Act promotes private stablecoins, it coincides with a push by Republicans to block a Federal Reserve-issued CBDC. In fact, alongside the stablecoin bill, the House passed a bill to prohibit a U.S. CBDC, reflecting concerns about government control and surveillance. The combination suggests the U.S. is choosing a path of “private-sector digital dollar” instead of a Fed digital dollar. Trump’s administration has been explicit in opposing a CBDC, framing it as a potential invasion of privacy. By empowering private stablecoins, the Act arguably makes a Fed-issued retail CBDC less necessary: if regulated stablecoins can provide the benefits of digital currency (fast, programmable payments) in a way consistent with American free-market preferences, the political appetite for a government-run digital dollar diminishes. Trump himself stated his policy is to “keep 100% of the bitcoin the U.S. government holds” rather than selling, and not pursue a CBDC, signaling alignment with the crypto community’s skepticism of CBDCs. So the future U.S. digital currency strategy appears to be stablecoins over CBDC. Other countries may take the opposite route (e.g. China with its e-CNY). It will be telling to see which model proves more influential globally. For now, the Act cements that the U.S. will rely on regulated private innovation to modernize the dollar, rather than a top-down Fedcoin approach.
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中央銀行數位貨幣(CBDC): 有趣的是,在GENIUS法案推動私人穩定幣的同時,共和黨人也積極阻擋聯準會版本的CBDC。事實上,眾議院在同時通過穩定幣法案的同時,也通過了禁止美國CBDC的法案,反映出對政府控制與監控的疑慮。這組合顯示美國選擇走「民間主導數位美元」而非聯準會主導數位美元的路線。川普政府更明確反對CBDC,認為這將侵犯隱私。透過賦能私人穩定幣,該法案實質降低了聯準會發行CBDC零售版的必要性:如果經過監管的穩定幣能以合乎美國自由市場偏好的方式,提供數位貨幣的各項優勢(如快速、可程式化支付),對政府主導發行數位美元的需求自然消退。川普本人也公開表示,他的政策是「保留美國政府所有的比特幣,不出售」,且不推動CBDC,這與加密社群對CBDC的質疑立場一致。因此,美國未來的數位貨幣戰略似乎是以穩定幣取代CBDC。其他國家可能選擇相反道路(如中國採取e-CNY),究竟哪一模式會在全球產生更大影響,值得觀察。就目前來看,該法案已明確美國將依靠受管制的民間創新來推動數位美元現代化,而不是由上而下由聯準會發行Fedcoin。
Pros and Cons of the GENIUS Act
GENIUS法案的利與弊
Like any major financial reform, the GENIUS Act comes with both significant advantages and potential drawbacks, debated by supporters and critics. Here is a balanced look at the pros and cons:
如同其他重大金融改革,GENIUS法案既有顯著優勢,也可能帶來疑慮與風險,正反意見持續交鋒。以下是各方觀點的平衡剖析:
Pros / Potential Benefits:
優點 / 潛在益處:
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Regulatory Clarity and Legitimacy: The Act provides long-awaited legal clarity to the crypto industry. Clear rules for stablecoins mean businesses know what is allowed and how to comply, reducing regulatory risk. This encourages innovation – companies can now develop stablecoin-based products or integrate stablecoins into services without fear of unknowingly running afoul of the law. The overall legitimacy of crypto is boosted by having Congress explicitly recognize and regulate digital assets (it’s “a monumental step forward for crypto assets”, as one official put it). This could attract more institutional players into the space, who were waiting for regulatory frameworks. In short, crypto is being brought in from the shadows, which bodes well for its long-term growth.
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監管明確與合法性提升: 法案為加密產業帶來期待已久的法律明確性。清楚的穩定幣規範,讓業者明白什麼能做、該如何合規,降低監管風險,鼓勵創新——公司可以安心研發穩定幣產品,或將其整合進服務,其間不必擔心一不小心踩到紅線。國會明文承認並監管數位資產,極大提升加密產業整體合法性(正如一位官員所說,這是「推動加密資產邁進一大步」)。這將吸引更多等候監管明確的大型機構參與。簡言之,加密產業正走出灰色地帶,長線發展前景更佳。
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Consumer Protection and Stability: By enforcing full reserve backing, transparency, and oversight, the Act protects users from the worst risks. No more worries that a stablecoin might be a fractional-reserve scheme that could collapse in a run – every regulated coin must be backed by high-quality assets and issuers are watched by bank regulators. The requirements for redemption rights and giving holders first claim in bankruptcy add extra layers of safety for consumers. These guardrails significantly reduce the chance of a stablecoin “breaking the buck” or failing suddenly, thus adding stability to the crypto markets. Had such rules existed, episodes like TerraUSD’s collapse or even USDC’s brief depeg might have been avoided or mitigated. Consumers can have more confidence using stablecoins as a store of value or medium of exchange.
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消費者保護與市場穩定: 法案要求全額儲備、資訊透明與嚴格監督,可保護用戶免於最嚴重的風險。未來無須再擔心穩定幣僅部分準備卻被擠兌而崩潰——每一枚受監管的穩定幣,都必須以高品質資產全額備付,發行者也受到銀行監管機構監督。強制贖回與破產時持有人優先權規定,更為消費者增加保障。這些防線顯著降低穩定幣「脫鉤」或突然破產的機率,增添市場穩定性。如果此類規則早已存在,TerraUSD崩潰或USDC短暫失聯等事件或許能避免或減輕。消費者可更有信心將穩定幣視為保值或支付的工具。
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Financial Stability and Risk Mitigation: The Act addresses regulators’ systemic concerns. It prevents unregulated growth of what is essentially a form of private money, ensuring stablecoins don’t become a wildcat banking system. By stipulating safe reserves and empowering oversight, it minimizes risk of a stablecoin-triggered financial panic. Additionally, bringing stablecoin issuers into supervision allows regulators to monitor and manage any evolving risks (like rapid outflows or asset liquidation issues). The uniform federal standards also avoid a patchwork of state rules that could be arbitraged. Overall, the Act integrates stablecoins into the financial regulatory architecture, which should help contain any contagion if something goes wrong.
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金融穩定與風險抑制: 法案回應監管單位對系統性風險的關切。它防止本質上屬於私營貨幣的穩定幣失控發展,成為「野貓銀行」系統。透過明訂安全準備金與加強監督,將穩定幣引發金融恐慌的風險降至最低。此外,納入監管可讓主管機關掌握並管理新出現的風險(如資金迅速外逃或資產處置風險)。統一聯邦規準也避免各州規定東拼西湊被套利的狀況。整體而言,法案將穩定幣納入金融監管體系,如有突發情況可有效遏止擴散。
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U.S. Dollar Competitiveness: As discussed, a major goal and benefit is strengthening the U.S. dollar’s role globally. With a robust framework, U.S. dollar stablecoins can proliferate in a responsible way, likely crowding out weaker foreign currency stablecoins or curbing interest in non-dollar alternatives. This keeps global crypto liquidity anchored to USD, reinforcing its reserve currency status in the digital realm. Lawmakers like Rep. Steil explicitly said the bill will “secure…continued dominance of the U.S. dollar”. In geopolitical terms, that’s a win for the U.S. – it extends American influence and makes it easier to enforce sanctions or norms via control of stablecoin flows. Furthermore, if stablecoins indeed generate more demand for Treasuries, it contributes to U.S. government financing stability (though modestly at current scales).
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強化美元競爭力: 如前所述,本法案一大目標即強化美元全球地位。健全法規下,美元穩定幣可健康擴散,將擠壓較弱外幣穩定幣或削弱非美元替代品的吸引力。全球加密資金流動性也將繼續以美元為錨,加深其作為數位時代儲備貨幣的核心地位。多位立法者如Steil議員皆明示,該法案將「確保美元持續主導地位」。地緣政治層面也是利多——美國能藉穩定幣流通管控加強制裁或推動國際規範。而若穩定幣確實帶動國債需求,對政府融資穩定亦有正面貢獻(雖然以現階段規模看,仍作用有限)。
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Faster Payments and Financial Inclusion: Stablecoins have the promise of making payments faster and cheaper, especially across borders or outside of banking hours. The Act by legitimizing them could accelerate their adoption in payments. This can benefit consumers and businesses by enabling near-instant settlements 24/7, unlike traditional bank wires that cut off on weekends. Remittances sent via stablecoins can arrive in minutes with minimal fees, helping families globally. Even domestically, stablecoins can enable new fintech solutions for the unbanked or underbanked – for example, someone without a bank account could hold digital dollars in a smartphone wallet and participate in e-commerce or savings in ways they couldn’t before. Essentially, the Act could spur a wave of financial innovation leveraging stablecoins for inclusion and efficiency (imagine micro-payments, smart contract-based commerce, etc., using a U.S. regulated digital dollar). Many supporters call this an opportunity to “unleash the potential” of stablecoins for fintech and payments modernization.
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加速支付及普惠金融: 穩定幣可望讓支付更快速、便宜,特別適合跨國轉帳或銀行休息日結算。法案合法化穩定幣,將加速應用拓展。這能讓消費者與企業24/7即時結算,不像傳統銀行電匯會遇到假日中斷。透過穩定幣轉帳,匯款可在數分鐘內低費率完成,有助全球家庭。即使在美國本地,穩定幣也可促成無銀行戶金融科技解決方案——例如有人無法開立銀行帳戶,卻可用智慧型手機錢包持有數位美元,參與電商或存款。換言之,法案有望引爆新一波金融創新,以美國監管下的數位美元,促進普惠與效率(可想見微支付、智慧合約商業等應用)。許多支持者稱這為「釋放穩定幣潛能」讓金融科技與支付現代化。
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Controlled Environment vs. Wild West: Instead of banning crypto or stablecoins, the U.S. is taking a “regulate to innovate responsibly” approach. This allows the benefits of crypto technology to be harnessed under a watchful eye. In contrast to purely restrictive regimes, this pro-innovation stance could ensure the U.S. stays at the forefront of fintech. It also means bad actors will find it harder to operate, which overall improves the industry’s reputation. Scams and fly-by-night stablecoin issuers will either have to clean up and comply or shut down, leaving a healthier ecosystem.
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監管有序杜絕亂象: 美國並未選擇禁絕加密或穩定幣,而是採「監管以促創新」立場。此舉可讓加密科技優勢受監督下運用,與純粹打壓的國家形成對照。此創新友善態度,有助美國持續領先金融科技,也讓不法業者難以立足,改進整體產業形象。詐騙或短線穩定幣發行者,要嘛徹底洗白守規,要嘛退出市場,生態系將更健康。
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Preventing a Regulatory Patchwork: Before the Act, states like New York and some others had their own stablecoin or crypto rules, and federal regulators like the SEC and OCC were asserting jurisdiction in conflicting ways. The GENIUS Act creates a uniform federal baseline that reduces confusion. It
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避免監管碎片化: 在本法案之前,紐約等部分州已各自制定穩定幣或加密貨幣規則,聯邦單位如SEC、OCC也各自主張權限,導致規定互相矛盾。GENIUS法案統一定下聯邦標準,減少市場混亂與困惑。clarifies that the SEC and CFTC have no role in regulating pure payment stablecoins, ending turf battles and providing a single regulatory channel. This clear delineation (stablecoins = banking regulators’ domain) is beneficial for companies who otherwise faced uncertainty over whether their token might be deemed a security etc. It’s now codified as neither security nor commodity, which is a big win for clarity.
缺點 / 潛在風險:
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合規成本與進入門檻: 嚴格監管的另一面,是帶來沉重的合規負擔。規模較小的新創公司或去中心化項目可能難以符合如每月稽核、資本標準及監管考核等要求。這可能抑制小型業者的創新並讓市場集中於少數財力雄厚的大型機構(大銀行、大型金融科技公司、既有企業)手中,因為只有他們負擔得起這些合規費用。批評者擔心這會讓產業遊戲規則偏向既有業者,減少市場競爭。一些創新概念(如演算法穩定幣、全新儲備模型)在嚴格的一比一儲備制度下恐怕無法實現。本質上,穩定幣設計的創意將受到侷限——大家都得用差不多保守的方式營運。雖然這有利於安全,但可能限制市場上解決方案的多元性。
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隱私權降低及抗審查能力減弱: 將穩定幣完全納入受監管金融體系,勢必增加對用戶交易的監控。受《銀行保密法》(BSA)規範的發行方會蒐集用戶資訊並監視交易,削弱部分密碼貨幣用戶重視的假名性。此外,如前所述,監管機關或發行方可凍結涉嫌非法活動的地址,意味著若用戶不慎與黑名單對象交易,其資金可能會被凍結。隱私權倡議者視此為負面發展——穩定幣可能變成監控國家的另一隻手,類似銀行帳戶,抹消密碼貨幣(金融隱私)的一大特色。共和黨人反對美國 CBDC 的部分理由即關乎隱私,但懷疑者指出,一個受監管穩定幣網絡也能對資金流動產生同樣程度的監督。此外,也存在濫權或政治化風險——比如,一個政府是否會施壓發行方凍結抗議團體或異議份子的資金?隨著權力集中,這類情境雖不常見,卻有可能發生。簡言之,加密貨幣原有的自由主義、去中心化精神,被合規要求擠到一邊,令部分社群人士感到遺憾。
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排除去中心化與外國選項: 該法案的做法非常「美元本位」且傾向集中化。由演算法或超額抵押運作的去中心化穩定幣(如 MakerDAO 的 DAI)可能無法適應這種監管架構,可能被排除在主流市場之外,甚至面臨法律挑戰。這將打擊開放原始碼、去中心化金融的創新,反而有利於企業化經營模式。此外,限制外國穩定幣進入,除非其所屬司法管轄區規則獲美國認可,這也帶有金融保護主義色彩。雖然可防止監管套利,但同時意味著美國消費者若外國做法不同,將無法接觸可能有用的創新產品。例如,若日圓或歐元穩定幣沒有美國批准的體制,美國交易所就不能上架,減少了多元配置與套利機會。
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金融體系整合風險: 某些經濟學家擔憂大量採用穩定幣的總體經濟影響。即便沒有利息,有些人仍可能因穩定幣的彈性與科技優勢,將大量資金自銀行存款移出,造成銀行資金壓力或需調整經營。此外,國庫券市場易受衝擊:如前所述,若穩定幣發行方大量持有短債,遇到市場壓力必須拋售,則可能影響短期資金市場的穩定性。法案並未完全消除這種風險——雖然要求高品質資產來降低風險,但全面贖回風險仍有可能。有批評者認為,這將產生新型的「穩定幣銀行」,危機時可能需要聯準會(Fed)介入——例如,當穩定幣發行方面臨危機時,聯準會會不會被迫出手為幣持有人提供流動性或購買資產(即使法律上沒義務)?這種「道德風險」始終存在疑慮,雖然穩定幣持有人沒有保險,但情況尚不明朗。總之,監管機關需密切關注穩定幣壯大後對金融體系的潛在影響。
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創新權衡(演算法穩定幣): 法案實質上僅支持百分百準備金的穩定幣,可能關上了演算法穩定幣的大門—儘管過去失敗不少,仍有人認為這領域終有機會帶來去中心化金融的突破。眾議院原本主張對演算法穩定幣暫停兩年,後來變成僅進行研究,顯示監管單位對該模式的不信任。若未來美國完全禁止或嚴格限制演算法穩定幣,開發者可能將專案移往海外或灰色市場。而倘若監管在 Terra 等早期災難之後便凍結其演化,我們可能永遠看不到更安全的演算法穩定幣出現。這正是創新與監管的兩難:為防範風險,亦可能窒礙了較有前景的其他嘗試。
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DeFi 執法挑戰: 法案將義務加諸於法人及個人,但在去中心化協議領域,這種要求可能不易執行。某些批評者認為,真正去中心化的穩定幣或點對點轉帳有可能規避這些規範,減弱監管成效。例如,若某人完全在鏈上創造穩定幣且無明確法人,法律如何阻止人們使用?雖然可禁止交易所及託管業者處理,但鏈上 DEX 可能依然交易這類穩定幣。這反而可能使部分穩定幣活動轉往監管較鬆、資訊更不透明的地下管道——與原本的立法目標背道而馳。當然,若無法和法幣入口整合,這些幣種也會生存不易。這是一場監管單位必須持續拉鋸的貓抓老鼠遊戲,或需運用新工具(FinCEN 已預告將針對加密活動研發「新型偵測手法」指向區塊鏈數據分析)。
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監管俘虜或政治化風險: 如所有監管體制,產業大玩家左右規則訂定(例如向監管機關遊說,使資本或流動性規範對自身有利)風險將隨之而來。未來不同的政府可能改變監管方向——例如,換了一位較不友善加密貨幣的財政部長,就可能更嚴格審核外國體制,影響市場競爭。如果日後有對加密不友善的政府上台,雖然法律既定,但實施細節或會從嚴操作,從而抑制產業成長。還有一項懸而未決的問題:倘若穩定幣規模擴張至足以影響貨幣政策(如改變對實體現金或銀行準備金的需求)呢?聯準會屆時可能要求更多監管權力來限制穩定幣——可能還需修法。總體而言,雖然法案提供了清晰的起步架構,未來隨市場演化,仍不排除再次出現監管爭議或調整。
即便存在上述潛在缺點,法案通過後,整體加密社群的反應依然樂觀。明確的規範、消費者信心及全球競爭力帶來的好處被認為遠超疑慮,多數風險可藉審慎規則制定與監理加以管理。兩黨支持也顯示大多數政策制定者認為這些權衡是可接受的,比起讓穩定幣完全不受規範,更願意將其納入體系。
結語
GENIUS 法案的簽署,標誌著美國加密貨幣監管的歷史性轉捩點。國會與總統首度攜手制定專屬法規,擁抱一項加密創新——使穩定幣從邊緣、未定義的實驗,化為金融體系正式的一環。藉此美國明確表態,未來將以監管主導下階段數位金融,藉規範引導產業發展,引領全球,而不是以監管來扼殺加密,而是按照國家穩定、安全與美元領導地位的利益出發加以塑形。
短期內,焦點將轉到實施層面。聯邦監管機構(聯準會、OCC、FDIC 等)有一年時間訂定從資本要求到申請流程等細節規則。財政部也須在一年內說明審查外國體制的標準。預期將迎來一波公開意見徵詢、產業遊說,甚至各州議會也可能為認證需求訂定專屬法規。欲成為發行方的公司很可能已開始準備申請,立法生效一年後即可提出。屆時主要業者會選擇何種路徑也很有看頭——有些金融科技業者可能選擇 OCC 全國執照,以便全國統一營運;另一些則可能選擇如懷俄明或紐約這類監管較積極的州,以求加速推出。預計到了 2026 年底(預期生效日),第一批聯邦認證的穩定幣發行方有望上線,2027–28 年間未受規範的穩定幣將逐步退出美國市場。
在國際上,其他國家也將密切觀察。互惠條款意味著規則類似的國家可和美國簽訂協議——比如英國、新加坡很可能與美國建立正式的互認制度,使當地持牌穩定幣可跨境在美國銷售,反之亦然。這有望促成理念相近國家形成共同標準聯盟(有點像銀行業以巴塞爾協議統一標準)。選擇…not to regulate stablecoins may find their providers locked out of the U.S., which could pressure them to adopt compatible rules if they want to participate in this global dollar stablecoin system.
未針對穩定幣進行監管的國家,其提供者可能會被美國市場排除在外,這將迫使他們若想參與全球美元穩定幣體系,就必須採用相容的規則。
For the crypto industry, the Act’s success could pave the way for further positive legislation. Notably, alongside GENIUS, the House also passed the CLARITY Act, which aims to clarify the distinction between digital assets as securities vs. commodities, addressing the wider crypto market structure. That bill was heading to the Senate next. The stablecoin law’s bipartisan support bodes well for tackling these other issues – if Congress can agree on stablecoins, there’s hope they might eventually agree on broader crypto classifications and perhaps rules for exchanges. We might be witnessing the beginning of a comprehensive U.S. crypto regulatory regime that provides clear paths for the entire digital asset sector. Industry advocates call this outcome a “defining moment in the evolution of U.S. digital asset policy”.
對加密產業來說,該法案的成功有望為後續更多正面的立法鋪路。值得注意的是,與GENIUS法案同時,眾議院也通過了CLARITY法案,該法案目的是釐清數位資產作為證券與商品之間的區別,進而處理更廣泛的加密市場結構議題。這項法案接下來將送至參議院審議。穩定幣法案獲得兩黨支持,也預示著解決其他問題的契機——如果國會能在穩定幣達成共識,那麼未來他們或許也能就更廣泛的加密資產分類,甚至是交易所規範達成協議。我們或許正見證美國建立全面加密監管體系的開端,為整個數位資產產業提供清晰發展道路。產業倡議者稱這一成果為「美國數位資產政策演進上的決定性時刻」。
Looking further ahead, the integration of stablecoins into everyday finance could accelerate. Use cases that were speculative before might become routine: paying overseas contractors in stablecoins, settling stock trades or securities transactions with instant stablecoin payment, Internet of Things devices executing micropayments via stablecoins, and more. Because the law allows stablecoin infrastructure to plug into banking (banks can issue and use them), we might see a gradual convergence of traditional finance and crypto. For example, a person might not even know they are using a stablecoin under the hood – their banking app could simply offer instant transfers that are actually happening via tokenized dollars on a ledger. The line between “crypto money” and “real money” could blur as regulated stablecoins essentially are real money in digital wrapper.
展望未來,穩定幣與日常金融的整合可望加速。過去被視為投機的應用案例可能將成為日常習慣:用穩定幣支付海外承包商、以即時穩定幣支付清算股票或債券交易、物聯網裝置透過穩定幣執行微支付,等等。由於新法允許穩定幣基礎設施連接銀行體系(銀行可以發行與使用穩定幣),傳統金融與加密世界之間可能會逐漸融合。例如,一個人根本不覺得自己正在用穩定幣——他的銀行App只是在提供即時轉帳,而實際上這些交易是在區塊鏈帳本上以代幣化美元完成。當監管的穩定幣本質上就是數位包裝的真實法幣時,「加密貨幣」與「真實貨幣」的界線將變得更加模糊。
Of course, challenges will arise. Regulators must remain vigilant to ensure compliance and update rules as needed. The crypto industry must uphold the standards – any major failure of a regulated stablecoin would be a setback for trust. Bad actors might try to exploit loopholes or new technologies to create unregulated substitutes (for instance, could a DAO issue a stablecoin algorithmically in a way that skirts the definition of “payment stablecoin”? These edge cases will need addressing).
當然,這一切仍會面臨挑戰。監管機關必須持續警覺以確保規範落實並隨時更新相關條例。加密產業也必須遵守標準——任何受到監管的主要穩定幣若出現重大失敗,勢必將重挫市場信心。不良份子可能會企圖利用漏洞或新技術創造尚未受監管的替代品(例如,一個DAO是否能以演算法方式發行穩定幣,從而規避「支付型穩定幣」的定義?這類邊緣案例日後必須被釐清)。
One emerging topic is central bank digital currencies vs. stablecoins. With the U.S. seemingly entrusting stablecoins to serve the role of a digital dollar, other central banks might question if they should do the same or push ahead with official CBDCs. The Anti-CBDC sentiment in the U.S. sets it apart from, say, Europe or China. Over time, if U.S. regulated stablecoins flourish and accomplish many objectives of a CBDC (fast payments, inclusion) without the government directly issuing, it might influence other democracies to favor private-sector solutions too. Alternatively, if private coins show limitations, the pressure for a Fed CBDC could return in the future. For now, the U.S. has bet on the private approach, and many will be watching the outcome.
其中一個新興議題是央行數位貨幣(CBDC)與穩定幣的競合。隨著美國顯然選擇讓穩定幣扮演數位美元角色,其他央行可能會質疑他們是要仿效美國做法,還是持續推進官方 CBDC。美國社會普遍反對CBDC,與歐洲或中國有所不同。隨著時間推移,若美國監管下的穩定幣能興盛發展、達成CBDC許多目標(如快速支付、金融普惠),而政府並未直接發行,那麼這也可能影響其他民主國家偏向民間解決方案。反過來說,若民營穩定幣顯現侷限,央行發行CBDC的呼聲未來仍可能再起。目前,美國選擇了私有化的路線,全球都在關注結果。
In conclusion, the GENIUS Act represents a comprehensive, good-faith effort to bring order to the stablecoin realm. Its passage demonstrates that U.S. lawmakers can craft thoughtful cryptocurrency legislation that balances innovation with safeguards – a stark contrast to the enforcement-only approach of prior years. The Act is expected to spur growth in the crypto economy by unlocking new opportunities for investment and technology, while also extending the safeguards of the traditional financial system into the digital currency world. As President Trump described at the signing, supporters believe “this could be perhaps the greatest revolution in financial technology since the birth of the internet itself”. That may be hyperbole, but there’s no doubt the stablecoin law opens an important new chapter. If implemented well, the GENIUS Act will likely be remembered as the moment the U.S. embraced the tokenization of money – melding the trust of the old financial system with the transformative power of blockchain technology, to the benefit of consumers and the competitiveness of the U.S. economy in the 21st century.
總結來說,GENIUS法案代表了美國對穩定幣領域採取的全面且誠意十足的整頓努力。法案通過證明美國立法者能夠制定兼顧創新與安全的加密法規——這與過去僅靠執法打壓的做法形成鮮明對比。該法案有望釋出更多投資與技術機會,推動加密經濟成長,同時也將傳統金融體系的安全機制延伸至數位貨幣世界。正如川普總統於簽署時所言,支持者相信:「這或許是繼網際網路誕生以來金融科技領域最偉大的革命」。這種說法或許帶有誇張,但毫無疑問,穩定幣法案確實開啟了美國金融史上的重要新篇章。若能落實執行,GENIUS法案極有可能成為美國擁抱貨幣代幣化的里程碑——將舊金融體系的信任,與區塊鏈的變革力量融合,造福消費者,也強化美國在21世紀的經濟競爭力。

