Quick Highlights
- NYC Mayor Eric Adams launches Digital Assets Advisory Council to attract fintech jobs and investment.
- Blockchain tech to be used for vital records like birth and death certificates.
- Crypto may soon be accepted for city services as part of pilot programs.
- Adams emphasizes the resilience of the crypto community and reaffirms NYC’s leadership ambitions.
- Industry stakeholders engage in collaborative workshops to shape the city’s crypto strategy.
Making NYC the Crypto Capital of the World
At the first-ever NYC Crypto Summit, Mayor Eric Adams announced a major move to solidify New York’s position as a global leader in digital finance — the creation of a Digital Assets Advisory Council.
“My goal remains the same as it was day one as mayor, making New York City the crypto capital of the globe,” Adams stated.
The council, whose chairperson and policy recommendations will be revealed in the coming weeks, aims to attract fintech jobs and long-term investment into Manhattan’s economy.
Blockchain for Better Governance
Beyond just financial gains, Adams is keen on leveraging blockchain to modernize municipal services.
“This is not about chasing memes or trends,” he said. “We want to use the technology of tomorrow to better serve New Yorkers today.”
One of the highlighted use cases is securing vital records, such as birth and death certificates, through blockchain—ensuring both privacy and accessibility for families.
Crypto for Public Services?
NYC CTO Matthew Fraser echoed the urgency of embracing innovation, pointing to financial inclusion as a key priority.
“We’re not talking about innovation. We’re talking about survival,” Fraser warned.
He hinted at future pilot programs where residents without bank accounts might be able to pay for city services using crypto, bridging a gap for the underbanked.
A Council of Visionaries
True to his adventurous spirit, Adams likened himself to Captain Kirk on a mission to explore new frontiers and is now searching for his own “Spock” — visionary leaders to help guide NYC’s crypto journey.
“You were harassed, you were demonized… But you withstood it,” he told crypto advocates, acknowledging their resilience. “Your resiliency is admirable, and it will all pay off.”
A New Era for NYC
The summit ended with collaborative sessions where industry players shared ideas, opportunities, and potential roadblocks. The best insights will be formally endorsed by the mayor’s office — ensuring the community’s voice is part of the city’s roadmap.
With his early Bitcoin paycheck conversion still fresh in the industry’s memory, Mayor Adams continues to lead the charge in crypto advocacy — not just with words, but with bold action.
Stay tuned as New York City charts its path toward becoming a true global hub for digital assets and blockchain