New York City Mayor Eric Adams has initiated the formation of a new municipal office dedicated to digital assets and blockchain, aiming to reinforce his long-standing crypto-friendly vision as his term nears its end. The move, announced this week, underscores Adams’ commitment to establishing New York as a key hub for emerging financial technologies.
According to an official notice from the mayor’s office, Adams exercised his executive authority to create the Office of Digital Assets and Blockchain Technology. The new entity will focus on promoting blockchain innovation within the city’s administrative and economic framework. Moises Rendon, who has been serving as a digital assets and blockchain policy adviser for New York City since April 2024, has been appointed to lead the office.
Adams described New York as a city that has historically embraced innovation and stated that adopting new technologies was essential for future growth. He emphasized that the rise of digital assets presents opportunities to boost the city’s economy, attract top global talent, increase financial inclusion for underbanked residents, and make public services more efficient through digital transformation.
Adams’ Crypto-Friendly Record
Throughout his tenure, Adams has positioned himself as one of the most crypto-supportive political figures in the United States. His prominence in the digital asset sector grew significantly during his 2021 mayoral campaign when he pledged to accept his first three paychecks in Bitcoin. Since assuming office, he has taken several steps to advance blockchain initiatives, including forming a digital advisory council, advocating for Bitcoin-backed municipal bonds, and calling for reforms to New York’s stringent BitLicense regulations.
However, Adams’ political future appears limited, as he announced in September that he would not seek re-election. Initially a Democrat who later registered as an Independent, his current term is set to end on January 1, 2026.
The newly established blockchain office will be responsible for developing strategies aimed at strengthening New York City’s position as a leading center for cryptocurrency innovation. It will provide policy guidance and legislative recommendations to the mayor, collaborate with the city’s Office of Technology and Innovation, and operate under the supervision of Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser.
Crypto Influence in Upcoming Mayoral Race
As Adams prepares to leave office, several figures within the crypto industry are reportedly showing interest in shaping the upcoming 2025 mayoral race. Among them is Gemini co-founder Tyler Winklevoss, who has hinted at potential involvement, either through personal engagement or financial contributions to candidates supportive of digital assets.
The next mayoral election, scheduled for November 4, is expected to be closely contested between independent candidate and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa remains behind in most recent polls.
Mamdani, currently leading in voter surveys following Adams’ withdrawal from the race, has previously advocated for stronger consumer safeguards concerning stablecoins in New York. He has also been critical of Cuomo’s connections with crypto exchange OKX. Nonetheless, Mamdani’s campaign platform has primarily emphasized social and economic issues, focusing on reducing living costs, expanding affordable housing, and improving childcare access for residents.
Adams’ decision to establish the Office of Digital Assets and Blockchain Technology appears to be an effort to ensure continuity in New York City’s engagement with blockchain innovation beyond his tenure. The initiative may serve as a foundation for future administrations seeking to balance financial innovation with regulatory oversight, keeping New York competitive in the global digital economy.
