London-based algorithmic crypto trading firm Wintermute has opened a new office in New York, marking its official expansion into the U.S. market. The move, announced on May 15, signals a growing confidence in the evolving U.S. regulatory landscape under President Donald Trump’s administration.
“As the U.S. takes a friendlier stance on digital assets and institutional adoption accelerates, we moved quickly to establish roots in New York City,” Wintermute said in a post on X. The company emphasized that a local presence would allow it to contribute directly to shaping the nation’s emerging crypto regulatory framework.
Leadership and Policy Advocacy
To lead its U.S. advocacy efforts, Wintermute appointed Ron Hammond as head of policy and advocacy. Hammond brings a decade of Capitol Hill experience and has played a key role in shaping digital asset policy. He previously served as senior director of government relations at the Blockchain Association and as policy lead for Representative Warren Davidson. Notably, Hammond authored the Token Taxonomy Act of 2021, the first bipartisan crypto regulatory proposal introduced in the U.S. Congress.
“We’re eager to continue our growth and play an integral role in the U.S. market,” said Evgeny Gaevoy, CEO of Wintermute. “As a neutral player with deep expertise in all areas of digital assets, we believe we are well-positioned to lend our expertise on Capitol Hill.”
Industry-Wide Expansion in the U.S.
Wintermute’s expansion comes amid a broader trend of global crypto firms establishing or deepening their U.S. presence following Trump’s January 2024 inauguration. The president made pro-crypto regulation a centerpiece of his campaign, fueling industry optimism about a more innovation-friendly environment.
According to Cointelegraph, at least eight major crypto firms have launched U.S. operations so far this year, including Binance.US, eToro, OKX, Nexo, Circle, Crypto.com, and a16z.
Regulatory Engagement and Legislative Efforts
Wintermute has already engaged with U.S. regulators, including meetings with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force. The firm said it plans to continue offering technical input and supporting key legislative efforts, which it views as “essential for continued institutional participation.”
The push for stablecoin legislation remains a focal point. The STABLE Act (Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy) cleared the House Financial Services Committee in a 32–17 vote on April 2 and is awaiting a full House vote. However, a second bill—the GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins)—stalled after failing to gain sufficient Democratic support on May 8.
Despite this setback, the crypto industry remains actively engaged. Over 60 top crypto founders convened in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the GENIUS Act and broader policy clarity. “Momentum toward regulatory clarity remains active in both chambers,” said Iliya Kalchev, analyst at Nexo Dispatch.
As Wintermute settles into its new Manhattan office, the firm is positioning itself as a key contributor to U.S. crypto regulation, signaling the increasing role of private sector actors in shaping the country’s digital asset future.
