The battle for regulation is triggering a major talent migration

LiquidityWitch · 2026-01-22T16:00:11+00:00

The regulatory landscape of the crypto industry is changing, with the UAE and Hong Kong providing clear policy support, while the US faces uncertainty, leading developers to prioritize compliance, which impacts innovation. Talent and funding are beginning to flow toward regions with clearer regulations.

LiquidityWitch

2026-01-22 16:00:11

Abstract generation in progress

【Crypto World】The regulatory landscape in the crypto industry has been changing over the past two years. What used to be pure legal tug-of-war battles has now evolved into real-life talent competitions.

Looking at the actions of the UAE and Hong Kong makes it clear—they have lowered their stance and directly provided clear regulatory frameworks and support policies. For developers and startup teams, this is a reassurance, allowing them to focus on refining their products.

On the other hand, in the US, this regulatory uncertainty has become an unavoidable burden. Founders are forced to prioritize legal compliance, with product innovation taking a backseat. This drag affects the vitality of the entire ecosystem. As a result, developers are starting to vote with their feet, and the ecosystem is steadily shifting to regions with clearer regulations. This is not just about the flow of money, but also about the reallocation of talent and innovation.

View Original

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.

8 Likes

Reward
8
5
Repost
Share

Comment

0/400

AirdropHunterWang

· 11h ago

The US is really falling behind, with more lawyers than engineers. Dubai and Hong Kong are openly welcoming, and talent has already started to leave.

View OriginalReply0

GateUser-ccc36bc5

· 11h ago

Things here in the US are indeed holding me back; it looks like I need to move.

View OriginalReply0

CryptoTarotReader

· 11h ago

It's really quite awkward here in the US, with regulations changing daily. How can developers not leave? Dubai and Hong Kong are clearly here to scoop up opportunities; with clear rules, people are coming. It's truly absurd that compliance is prioritized over innovation. Who would dare to start a business if products are held back? Talent flow is a true barometer of the ecosystem. The US needs to learn what it means to know when to stop. I have to say, certainty is really valuable, even more than the support policies themselves. If the US keeps dragging on like this, the ecosystem will soon become hollow, right?

View OriginalReply0

BearMarketBard

· 11h ago

The US really screwed up; they don't dare do anything for fear of being sued.

View OriginalReply0

SmartMoneyWallet

· 11h ago

The US is indeed digging its own grave. Looking at the on-chain data flow makes it clear that funds are continuously transferring to the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. This is a major reallocation of chips.

View OriginalReply0