White House Adviser Kevin Hassett Discloses Coinbase Stake Amid Crypto Policy Efforts

Kevin Hassett, the Director of the National Economic Council in the United States, disclosed holdings of Coinbase shares valued between $1 million and $5 million at the end of 2025. This disclosure comes as the Trump administration was actively promoting policies related to cryptocurrency. Hassett previously served as an adviser to Coinbase from 2021 until January 2025, prior to his appointment at the White House. The financial disclosure does not clarify whether he still holds these shares, as it only covers his financial interests through the end of 2025.

The National Economic Council has been instrumental in shaping the administration's approach to digital assets. Following President Donald Trump's return to office, a working group focused on digital asset markets was established within the NEC, tasked with formulating recommendations on cryptocurrency regulation, banking, stablecoins, and taxation. Hassett has stated that he recused himself from crypto-related matters after consulting with government ethics officials, and a White House spokesperson confirmed that this recusal is still in effect.

Concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest have been raised by ethics experts. Virginia Canter, a former SEC ethics lawyer, highlighted that Hassett's financial interests in Coinbase could create a significant conflict of interest or at least the appearance of one. Meanwhile, Coinbase has become a prominent player in Washington, investing heavily in the 2024 U.S. presidential election and maintaining close communication with senior officials, including President Trump.

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Source: KLEA News