Bitcoin and ethereum prices today, Wednesday, August 19, 2026: Crypto prices rise after SEC announces proposed regulation

Bitcoin and Ethereum opened slightly higher on Aug. 19, 2026, after the SEC proposed a new crypto regulatory framework that could make it easier for crypto firms to raise capital and provide clearer exemptions from registration requirements. The proposal also outlines disclosure and reporting obligations for larger offerings and could allow mature crypto networks to exit securities classification after meeting core managerial commitments. The market interpreted the announcement as supportive for established networks like Bitcoin and Ethereum, helping both prices edge up in early trading. The article also notes mixed longer-term performance: both assets remain well below their one-year levels despite recent weekly gains. Separately, the piece explains U.S. tax treatment of crypto gains, emphasizing that conversions between digital assets are taxable events and that holding period determines whether gains are taxed at higher short-term or lower long-term rates.