Pro-XRP Lawyer John Deaton Raises Concerns Over Proposed Tax Exemptions for US-Based Crypto Projects

In a recent tweet, pro-XRP lawyer John Deaton raised concerns over the proposed tax exemptions for U.S.-based cryptocurrency projects

Pro-XRP lawyer John Deaton has expressed concerns over the proposed tax exemptions for U.S.-based cryptocurrency projects, particularly focusing on projects with international operations. In a recent tweet, Deaton questioned whether projects with foundations or operations abroad, like Solana (SOL) and Tezos (XTZ), would meet the requirements for these exemptions.

Highlighting the ambiguity in the proposed rules, Deaton pointed out that these crypto projects might face difficulties in meeting the jurisdictional parameters. This could lead to confusion and potentially exclude U.S.-based projects with global affiliations.

However, Deaton also noted a group of cryptocurrencies that may face fewer jurisdictional hurdles. These projects, such as XRP, Stellar Lumens (XLM), Hedera (HBAR), Avalanche (AVAX), and Chia (XCH), seem to meet the surface-level criteria for the proposed zero capital gains tax, making them more likely to benefit from the policy.

Cryptos Facing Fewer Jurisdictional Hurdles

Unlike projects like Solana and Tezos, which have international operations that might complicate their eligibility for the proposed tax exemptions, cryptocurrencies like XRP, XLM, HBAR, AVAX, and XCH could be in a stronger position to qualify.

These projects, while they may have global users and collaborations, generally maintain strong ties to their U.S.-based foundations and operations. This makes them less likely to face issues with jurisdictional eligibility, which could be a major obstacle for other crypto projects.

For these cryptocurrencies, meeting the eligibility criteria for the zero capital gains tax seems more straightforward. This could give them a competitive advantage in the market, especially as other jurisdictions are increasingly looking at how they will regulate and tax digital assets. With fewer complications tied to their geographic reach, these projects could be poised to benefit from the proposed tax relief, encouraging growth and investment within the U.S.

A Call for Clarity in Policy Implementation

Deaton’s concerns also highlight the importance of clear and comprehensive guidelines in the crypto tax space. As the cryptocurrency industry continues to evolve, it is essential that tax policies accommodate the international nature of many projects without penalizing those that have global affiliations.

The proposed zero capital gains tax aims to incentivize U.S.-based crypto companies by reducing the tax burden on long-term capital gains from digital asset holdings. However, the policy could face challenges in defining which projects qualify as U.S.-based and how jurisdictional factors will be considered.

With more clarity on these aspects, the U.S. could foster a competitive crypto environment that benefits both local and international projects, ultimately driving innovation and economic growth in the digital asset sector.