Advocacy Group Targets DeFi in Prime-Time Ads Ahead of Senate Markup

A new advocacy group called Investors For Transparency has launched prime-time ads on Fox News urging viewers to oppose decentralized finance (DeFi) provisions in the upcoming crypto market structure bill. The campaign comes just a week before senators on the Banking and Agriculture Committees are set to cast votes on the legislation, with markup hearings scheduled for January 15, 2026.

The treatment of DeFi has been one of the most contested elements of the bill. Lawmakers, traditional finance firms, and crypto industry leaders have clashed over how decentralized protocols should be regulated. Some argue DeFi platforms need strict oversight to prevent fraud and illicit finance, while others warn that heavy-handed rules could stifle innovation and push activity offshore.

Pressure Campaign Before the Vote

The ads from Investors For Transparency highlight concerns that DeFi rules could harm retail investors and limit access to new financial tools. Running on Fox News during prime-time slots, the campaign is designed to reach a broad audience and influence public opinion ahead of committee debates.

Key points:

• Group: Investors For Transparency, newly formed advocacy organization.

• Platform: Ads airing on Fox News in prime-time.

• Message: Urging opposition to DeFi provisions in the crypto bill.

• Timing: Just days before Senate Banking Committee releases its draft language.

The Senate Banking Committee, chaired by Senator Tim Scott, is expected to release its portion of the bill next week. That draft will clarify where DeFi stands in the broader “Digital Asset Market Clarity Act.” Exchanges like Coinbase and Kraken, along with stablecoin issuers such as Circle, are watching closely, as the final language could reshape compliance obligations across the industry.