Welcome to CoinDesk’s Most Influential 2025.
This year, Bitcoin reached an unprecedented high of $126,000 just a few months ago, while Ethereum underwent two significant network upgrades. Solana made its debut on Wall Street, and both retail and institutional investors enjoyed increased access to cryptocurrency markets through wrapped products like exchange-traded funds.
Building on the optimism from late 2024, 2025 witnessed the U.S. reclaiming its position as a leading market in crypto for both retail and institutional investors, establishing cryptocurrencies as a legitimate asset class for mainstream investors and even fostering growth in artificial intelligence within the crypto sector.
However, not all news has been positive. In recent months, markets have dipped, and both the U.S. and global economies are exhibiting signs of strain. The crypto sector received stark reminders of the need for personal security due to wrench attacks and kidnappings, as criminal actors continue to set records in terms of stolen crypto through hacks and breaches.
This brings us to the conclusion: it has been a hectic year.
This year, CoinDesk categorized 50 individuals and groups we recognize for their contributions—both positive and negative—to the crypto industry into 10 themes. Kicking off our presentation is a focus on U.S. President Donald Trump and the significant influence he has had on crypto discussions this year. Be sure to check back daily for new entries over the next two weeks.
Apart from policy-making, our themes also examine the intersection of money and politics, increasing scrutiny over capital flows, the essential work behind maintaining decentralized networks, and the industry’s more troubling aspects, among other topics.
Finally, as a reminder, CoinDesk’s Most Influential is not a ranking. Instead, it acknowledges the impact these individuals and groups have had on the industry. As in previous years, our selections include builders, policymakers, and thought leaders who are advancing the sector, alongside bad actors whose influence has arguably been detrimental. This is still influence, even if their contributions are less than desirable.
How We Selected CoinDesk’s Most Influential 2025
As with every year’s list, CoinDesk highlights individuals who have wielded—without question—significant influence within the crypto arena. Whether through making niche products mainstream, spotlighting how individuals disclose their holdings, or driving technological innovation, this list acknowledges those who have made a noticeable impact.
The final selection process involved input from a crowd-sourced long list, incorporating feedback from CoinDesk reporters and the public alike. This lengthy process resulted in the 50 names featured in the upcoming weeks.
In keeping with previous years, we intentionally avoided including individuals who might typically appear on the list annually. For instance, Hester Pierce from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) remains a pivotal figure in crypto regulation, increasingly influencing the agency’s stance under crypto-friendly Chair Paul Atkins. Similarly, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong wields considerable power over the industry, especially in the U.S.
However, some figures are so impactful that their inclusion on our Most Influential list is warranted year after year. This time, we’re once again recognizing Trump for the changes he’s instigated since his 2024 election, and other familiar names may appear as well. As always, we welcome your feedback regarding our selections.
