Coinbase’s Meteoric Rise: TIME’s 2025 Disruptor and Crypto Policy Champion

Coinbase has been named one of TIME's 100 Most Influential Companies for 2025, earning the title of 'disruptor' for its relentless advocacy in Washington and commanding presence in the US digital asset markets. The exchange's stock has skyrocketed by 42% this year, driven by significant legislative victories such as the GENIUS stablecoin bill and its historic inclusion in the S&P 500 index. TIME's recognition underscores Coinbase's pivotal role in shaping the future of cryptocurrency regulation and adoption. This achievement marks a milestone for the company and the broader crypto industry, highlighting the growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. With its aggressive policy wins and market dominance, Coinbase continues to solidify its position as a leader in the financial sector's digital transformation.

Coinbase Named TIME ‘Disruptor’ as Stock Soars 42% on Crypto Policy Wins

Coinbase has secured a spot on TIME's 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential Companies, recognized as a "disruptor" for its aggressive advocacy in Washington and growing dominance in US digital asset markets. The exchange's stock surged 42% this year, fueled by legislative wins like the GENIUS stablecoin bill and its historic inclusion in the S&P 500 index.

The publication highlights Coinbase's central role in shaping US crypto policy, with industry-friendly legislation potentially cementing its position as the nation's premier trading hub. Beyond domestic influence, the exchange expanded its European footprint with a MiCA-compliant license from Luxembourg's financial regulator, establishing its EU headquarters there.

IRS Intensifies Crypto Tax Scrutiny With Surge in Warning Letters

The Internal Revenue Service has escalated enforcement against U.S. cryptocurrency investors, dispatching a wave of compliance notices since May. Tax professionals report inquiry volumes have spiked ninefold compared to 2024, with firms like CoinLedger documenting nearly 800 related support requests in two months.

This crackdown mirrors previous enforcement cycles, notably the 2020-2021 campaign following the IRS's acquisition of Coinbase user data. The current letters appear particularly focused on historical Poloniex users, suggesting renewed access to exchange records.

Legal practitioners note alarming trends: Jordan Bass's firm went from zero to 10 client inquiries in 60 days, while Andrew Gordon's office now handles multiple cases weekly. The agency seems to be cross-referencing tax filings against blockchain data, targeting discrepancies in digital asset reporting.