On October 14, 2025, New York City took a groundbreaking step by launching an innovative office dedicated to the burgeoning fields of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Mayor Eric Adams formalized this initiative with Executive Order 57, resulting in the establishment of the Office of Digital Assets and Blockchain Technology.

This pioneering office represents the first of its kind within the United States at the municipal level, with Moises Rendon appointed as the Executive Director. The office will work closely with the city’s Chief Technology Officer to ensure effective integration of digital assets throughout city operations.

Key Responsibilities of the New Office

• Policy Guidance: The office will shape city policies regarding digital assets.
• Inter-agency Coordination: It will facilitate collaborations across various city departments.
• Public Education: Comprehensive outreach programs will inform citizens about digital assets.
• Blockchain Exploration: The office will investigate how blockchain can enhance municipal services.
• Economic Development: Collaborating with the NYC Economic Development Corporation, it aims to attract new business opportunities.

This initiative seeks to balance the necessity of consumer protection with increased availability of digital asset opportunities. Special emphasis will be placed on assisting underbanked residents to navigate potential scams and risks associated with cryptocurrency.

Leadership and Expertise

According to recent sources, Executive Director Rendon brings valuable experience from his tenure within the city government, focusing on technology and policy. His previous role as a policy advisor in the Office of Technology and Innovation positions him well for this new challenge.

Rendon is tasked with ensuring cohesive communication among departments involved in payments, records, and technology initiatives. The office is designed to create a simplified experience for citizens and businesses interacting with the city’s digital services, including those involving tokens and blockchain records.

Education and Public Protection Initiatives

A central goal of this new office is to enhance public understanding of digital assets. Outreach programs will be developed to educate the public about the functions of digital currencies, their potential benefits, and inherent risks.

By informing citizens, the office aims to reduce the likelihood of individuals falling victim to cyber fraud or loss of investments. Additionally, it will explore applications of blockchain for public record-keeping and secure data management. Some plans may involve partnerships with private sector companies and academic institutions to foster innovation.

As per official statements, the crypto office will work in tandem with state and federal regulators rather than attempt to replace them. Its role will involve providing strategic advice to the mayor and serving as a primary liaison for industry stakeholders seeking collaboration with the city.

A Persistent Advocate for Cryptocurrency

Mayor Adams has been a consistent supporter of cryptocurrency since assuming office in January 2022. In a notable gesture, he converted his first three paychecks into Bitcoin and Ethereum, which attracted both admiration and criticism.

By the end of 2024, as Bitcoin prices approached $100,000, he responded to skeptics, stating, “Remember when some ridiculed my Bitcoin investment? Who’s laughing now?”

Records indicate his Bitcoin holdings fluctuated significantly, ranging from $5,000 to $55,000 at the close of 2023.

Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView