New York City Establishes First U.S. Municipal Crypto Office

New York City has taken a pioneering step in digital asset governance with the creation of the Office of Digital Assets and Blockchain Technology. Signed into existence by Mayor Eric Adams on October 14, 2025, Executive Order 57 marks the first dedicated municipal body for crypto and blockchain in the United States. Moises Rendon, a seasoned policy advisor, will lead the office as Executive Director, reporting directly to the city's Chief Technology Officer.

The office's mandate spans five core functions: shaping city policy on digital assets, interagency coordination, public education initiatives, blockchain integration for municipal services, and economic development partnerships. This MOVE reflects a deliberate balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding consumers—particularly underbanked populations vulnerable to fraud.

Rendon's appointment signals operational readiness, leveraging his experience in technology policy within the Office of Technology and Innovation. The office will serve as a nexus for payment systems, record-keeping, and technical projects across city departments, requiring unprecedented cross-agency alignment.