As Washington intensifies its focus on cryptocurrency regulation, Andreessen Horowitz’s (a16z Crypto) has swiftly strengthened its policy leadership. The venture capital giant has appointed Miles Jennings, its longtime General Counsel, as Head of Policy, signaling a proactive approach to navigating the industry’s growing regulatory storm.
The move comes at a critical moment for crypto players as lawmakers zero in on everything from stablecoin regulation to tax rules impacting digital assets. Jennings’ promotion places him at the center of these debates, tasked with shaping a16z’s policy strategy during one of the most consequential periods for crypto regulation in the U.S.
The leadership change was announced by a16z Crypto Founding Partner Chris Dixon on Tuesday. Jennings replaces Brian Quintenz, who is stepping down to pursue Senate confirmation as the next Chair of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)—one of the most powerful regulatory bodies overseeing crypto markets.
“Excited to announce @milesjennings as head of policy for @a16zcrypto,” Dixon wrote on X. “Since 2021, he’s been shaping our policy views, and this role continues that work.”
Jennings brings extensive experience to the role. Before joining a16z Crypto in 2021, he was a partner at Latham & Watkins, specializing in emerging technologies and complex financial regulations. His legal background and hands-on policy work at a16z position him well to steer the firm through the shifting regulatory landscape.
A Pivotal Moment for Crypto Regulation in Washington
Jennings assumes the role just as lawmakers ramp up efforts to define the future of crypto regulation. With President Donald Trump back in office, the political environment is rapidly shifting. The administration is pursuing rollbacks of Biden-era crypto tax rules, advancing stablecoin legislation, and probing claims of “debanking” crypto firms.
Last week, Congress moved a stablecoin bill closer to a full Senate vote—an indication that key policy decisions impacting the crypto market could be finalized by year’s end.
The appointment of Quintenz to the CFTC’s top job is also a strategic signal. As a former CFTC Commissioner from 2017 to 2021, Quintenz was instrumental in approving the first U.S.-regulated bitcoin and ether futures contracts—experience that could shape the next chapter of U.S. crypto policy.
Jennings’ elevation reflects a broader trend among crypto’s biggest players: doubling down on Washington advocacy. With the stakes rising, major firms are embedding seasoned legal minds into policy roles, aiming to influence how the U.S. will regulate everything from market structure to decentralized finance (DeFi).
For a16z Crypto, a backer of some of the industry’s most prominent projects—Jennings’ appointment ensures the firm has a direct hand in shaping the debate, especially as stablecoin regulations and tax reforms hang in the balance.
Final Takeaway
As the regulatory fight over crypto heats up, a16z’s strategic reshuffle positions it squarely on the front lines. Miles Jennings brings both legal firepower and deep industry knowledge at a time when regulatory decisions could define the future of crypto innovation in the U.S.
With Washington’s attention fixed on the sector, a16z—and the broader industry—understands that who shapes the rules now will determine who thrives in the next decade of Web3 and digital finance.
