Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), the prominent venture capital firm, is shutting down its UK crypto office to concentrate on expanding its operations in the United States. The decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive push for crypto-friendly policies during his latest term.

In a statement shared on Jan. 24, Anthony Albanese, COO of a16z Crypto, acknowledged the growing enthusiasm for blockchain technology in the UK but cited U.S. policy advancements as the primary factor for the strategic shift. Albanese reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to supporting global entrepreneurs, including those in the UK, despite the closure of its London office.

The firm initially opened the UK office in 2023, drawn by what it described as a “predictable business environment.” However, the political landscape in the UK has since evolved. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Labour government plans to introduce comprehensive crypto regulations by 2026 and a sweeping 50-point artificial intelligence initiative to boost economic growth.

Meanwhile, President Trump has prioritized crypto policy since his Jan. 20 inauguration. Notable actions include an executive order establishing a stablecoin regulation working group and the formation of a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission task force focused on developing a strategic crypto market framework. The U.S. now aims to bolster its leadership in the blockchain sector, with strong financial backing from key players like Marc Andreessen.

Andreessen, co-founder of a16z, has invested heavily in pro-crypto political campaigns, donating $5 million to support Trump’s presidential race and $22 million to elect crypto-friendly congressional candidates. His involvement underscores the firm’s dedication to shaping the U.S. crypto landscape during a period of rapid policy evolution.

This strategic pivot reflects a broader trend: as nations vie for blockchain dominance, the regulatory environment remains a decisive factor for industry giants.