Trump’s leading pick for Treasury Secretary is ‘very pro-crypto’

As a seasoned analyst with extensive experience in financial markets and cryptocurrencies, I find Scott Bessent’s stance on cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to be both intriguing and promising. His background at Key Square Group and Soros Fund Management, along with his pro-crypto sentiments, suggest a deep understanding of the industry and its potential impact on the global economy.


Among the potential nominees for the role of United States Treasury Secretary under President-elect Donald Trump, Scott Bessent is noted for his favorable views towards digital currencies such as Bitcoin.

According to Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett’s November 11 post, Bessent, the founder of Key Square Group and a previous head of investing at Soros Fund Management, is strongly supportive of cryptocurrencies.

According to Terrett’s report, Trump’s preferred choice for the position of Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent (a billionaire in hedge fund investments), expresses strong support for cryptocurrencies, with a special affinity towards Bitcoin. This stance is based on some comments he made regarding the industry.

“Crypto is about freedom, and the crypto economy is here to stay”

As Terrett indicates, Bessent has made several favorable remarks about cryptocurrencies in recent times. This reflects his supportive view towards digital currencies, a stance that mirrors Trump’s ambitious pledge to establish the U.S. as a leading hub for cryptocurrency globally.

In one of the recent crypto-related statements, Bessent said:

“I have been excited about the president’s embrace of crypto and I think it fits very well with the Republican Party, crypto is about freedom, and the crypto economy is here to stay.” 

Additionally, Bessent expressed support for Bitcoin (BTC), emphasizing its ability to attract a new generation to the financial sector. In his own words, he mentioned:

“One of the most exciting things about Bitcoin is that it brings in young people and those who have not participated in markets before. Cultivating a market culture in the US, where people believe in a system that works for them, is the centerpiece of capitalism.”

Other candidates?

Last week, as reported by Reuters, Trump initiated the procedure for picking his cabinet members and other administrative personnel, following his win in the U.S. presidential election.

Trump, scheduled for a White House return on January 20th, allegedly had a meeting on November 8th with Bessent and another investor, John Paulson.

According to sources close to the incoming president, it appears that Bessent and Paulson are currently the top contenders for the significant position of U.S. Treasury Secretary.

As a researcher, I’ve observed that Bessent and Paulson, two individuals who previously backed Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, have been under consideration for roles within Trump’s administration for quite some time.

During a January campaign speech, Trump suggested that Paulson could be a potential Treasury Secretary. According to Reuters, Trump wanted Paulson to lead the Treasury, and if not him, Bessent.

Previously critical of cryptocurrencies, Paulson was among the key financial advisors during Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.

Last year, Paulson contended that digital currencies such as Bitcoin lack an inherent worth and pointed out their extreme price fluctuations when contrasted with the more consistent traditional financial markets.

During and following his first term as president, Trump himself was critical of Bitcoin, labeling it as a “scam” and merely another currency competing with the US dollar in July 2021. Despite these statements, Trump later declared himself a supporter of cryptocurrency, even going so far as to say that “crypto is the future” during his 2024 campaign.

Beyond deciding on a candidate for the U.S. Treasury Secretary position, Trump also needs to select numerous officials for crucial roles in federal financial institutions, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

As reported by The Washington Post, potential nominees for the SEC chair and various other roles are said to be Daniel Gallagher, Hester Peirce, and Mark Uyeda.

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2024-11-12 17:08