FASB Explores Cryptocurrency Accounting Changes by 2026

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has added cryptocurrency accounting, including stablecoin examination, to its agenda, influenced by policies from the Trump administration.

This effort could redefine financial reporting for cryptocurrencies, impacting transparency and valuation, although experts await official statements for confirmation.

FASB’s 2026 Plans: Stablecoin Classification and Impact

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has announced that it plans to investigate whether certain stablecoins can be classified as “cash equivalents” by the year 2026. The accounting board is also scrutinizing how cryptocurrency transfers, encompassing wrapped tokens, are recorded. Rich Jones, Chairman of FASB, indicated that these projects are part of FASB’s ongoing agenda, although there are no direct statements or evidence confirming this timeline or stablecoin exploration from him or the Wall Street Journal.

The possible changes could affect how companies report their financial holdings, especially in light of other regulatory adjustments like the ASU 2023-08, which required fair value accounting for cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. These new standards did not extend to stablecoins or NFTs, marking a pivot point for future financial documentation practices.

“It appears there are no direct quotes or statements from the relevant stakeholders regarding the ongoing work related to ‘Accounting for Transfers of Crypto Assets’ from FASB, nor are there any confirmations of plans for stablecoins as cash equivalents.” FASB Updates Accounting Standards Effective Date

Market responses to these announcements have been muted so far, with no significant statements from key opinion leaders (KOLs) or industry figures like Vitalik Buterin or Raoul Pal. Limited government or institutional commentary reflects a cautious approach as the accounting body proceeds with its deliberations. FASB’s current projects list indicates ongoing deliberations around crypto transfers without extending to stablecoins or cash equivalents.

Historical Context and Predictions: Bitcoin’s Position in 2025

Did you know? FASB’s previous adoption of fair value accounting for Bitcoin and Ethereum in 2023 enabled increased ETF flows, showing that regulatory changes can significantly impact crypto market structure and investment patterns.

In cryptocurrency data as of December 31, 2025, Bitcoin (BTC) maintains a strong market presence with a current price of $88,310.78 and a market cap of 1,763,522,120,320.03. BTC’s 24-hour trading volume stands at $33,542,570,024.97, marking a decline of 12.10%. According to CoinMarketCap, the cryptocurrency’s market dominance is at 59.09%.

Insights from the Coincu research team suggest that FASB’s actions could lead to significant regulatory adjustments. If stablecoins are classified as cash equivalents, this could legitimize their use as a mainstream currency alternative, potentially impacting financial transaction ecosystems globally.