Brian Armstrong Slams Traditional Banks at Davos

Setting the Agenda: Crypto for the People

Armstrong outlined three core priorities during his visit. First, he aimed to discuss how crypto could modernize outdated financial systems and promote economic freedom. Second, he pressed for clear U.S. legislation that supports a healthy crypto market structure. Third, he emphasized the benefits of tokenization, arguing it could make capital markets more accessible and inclusive.

He summarized this vision by saying that the future of finance is being built for the people, not just traditional institutions.

Strong Words Against Traditional Banking

On January 20, during a CNBC interview, Armstrong took direct aim at the banking sector. He criticized the common practice of fractional reserve banking, where banks lend out customer deposits without clear permission. He called this practice “the real scam” and pointed out that banks often earn around 5.7 percent from the Federal Reserve while offering depositors just 0.1 to 0.5 percent in return.

In contrast, he highlighted how crypto systems operate with one-to-one reserves and often offer higher stablecoin yields. According to Armstrong, traditional banks should stop lobbying against stablecoins and start competing on fair terms.

Pushing for Better Legislation in the U.S.

Armstrong also addressed the state of U.S. crypto regulation. Recently, Coinbase withdrew its support for the CLARITY Act, a proposed market structure bill. He cited several concerns with the current draft, including a potential ban on tokenized equities, restrictions on decentralized finance, and broad government access to user data.

Despite these setbacks, Armstrong stated that Coinbase is back in discussions with policymakers and bank CEOs. He remains optimistic that a revised version of the bill could pass in 2026, especially if the White House lends its support. He believes that the bill, as it stands, gives away too much to traditional financial institutions and does not reflect the needs of the crypto community.

Tokenization as a Global Equalizer

Beyond legislation, Armstrong spoke about the potential of tokenization to address global wealth inequality. He explained that traditional capital markets tend to reward those with access, while billions of people are left behind. Tokenized assets, in his view, can open up investment opportunities to anyone with internet access, regardless of geography or income level.

To support this idea, Coinbase announced a new initiative. Working with Circle, they will help bring Bermuda’s entire economy onchain using USDC and Base. If successful, Bermuda will become the first nation to operate a fully onchain economy.

Political Momentum and Market Predictions

Armstrong expressed hope for more political progress in 2026. He welcomed the election of pro-crypto politicians such as Rep. Abigail Spanberger and Rep. Mikie Sherrill. Their presence in government, he noted, reflects a growing acceptance of cryptocurrency at the highest levels.

Finally, Armstrong reiterated his long-term outlook for Bitcoin. He predicted the asset could reach $1 million by 2030, citing its limited 21 million supply and growing global demand.

What To Watch For Next

Throughout his time in Davos, Armstrong pushed for a shift in the global financial system. He positioned crypto as not just a technological innovation but a movement for fairness, transparency, and inclusion. His message was clear: finance needs an upgrade, and crypto is ready to lead the way.

As Brian Armstrong returns from Davos, all eyes are on whether his public criticism of banking practices will influence U.S. policy discussions. Negotiations around the revised CLARITY Act could gain momentum, especially if lawmakers address stablecoin rewards and DeFi provisions.

Meanwhile, Armstrong’s push to tokenize entire economies, like Bermuda’s, may accelerate real-world adoption. Expect heightened scrutiny from both regulators and banks, as crypto leaders double down on yield transparency and global access. If the White House signals support, a new wave of legislative clarity may arrive faster than expected.