Cryptocurrency surged on August 19 as two major policy announcements sparked optimism across digital asset markets. Bitcoin climbed to $69,000 and Ethereum jumped 10% as the U.S. Treasury announced it would double bond buybacks and the Securities and Exchange Commission proposed the first major regulatory framework for crypto assets.

The Treasury said it will increase long-term bond buyback operations to at least $4 billion per operation starting September 9, 2026, up from the current $2 billion maximum. The move targets 10-, 20-, and 30-year debt and aims to improve liquidity in the bond market as long-term yields have climbed sharply this year.

The expanded buyback program eased pressure on bond yields, with the 30-year…