Bitwise sees crypto advancing without CLARITY

• Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan said crypto can keep advancing even if the CLARITY Act fails this year.
• Polymarket puts the bill’s 2026 passage chance at 23%, down from 82% in February.
• Hougan said SEC and CFTC rules could support the industry, although legislation would provide stronger long-term certainty.

Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan said crypto can keep advancing even if Congress fails to pass the CLARITY Act this year.

Polymarket puts the bill’s 2026 passage chance at 23%, down from 82% in February.

“The reality is that Washington is always late to major technology shifts,” said Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan.

Hougan said SEC and CFTC guidance could support crypto markets if Congress does not pass the legislation.

However, regulatory guidance can be challenged or reversed, while legislation would provide stronger long-term certainty.

Hougan said a failed vote could leave CLARITY stalled until September or potentially a year-end legislative package.

He argued crypto has gained enough institutional adoption to keep expanding regardless of the bill’s immediate outcome.