Stablecoin transaction volume exceeded $33 trillion in 2025, intensifying competition among firms to shape regulatory outcomes. KAST’s appointment of a former U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) advisor reflects rising pressure to align growth with policy engagement.
KAST named Allen, a former senior advisor and spokesperson at the SEC (US), to lead corporate and policy communications. The company said she will focus on engagement with policymakers, media, and industry groups across North America and Latin America. Allen also previously advised the SEC’s Crypto Task Force, bringing direct experience with digital asset oversight.
Can Policy Expertise Drive Stablecoin Market Expansion?
The hire comes as stablecoin firms expand globally while facing closer regulatory scrutiny. Artemis Analytics reported a 72% increase in stablecoin transaction volume in 2025, surpassing the combined annual volume of major credit card networks. KAST, founded in July 2024 by former Circle executive Raagulan Pathy, is positioning itself within this high-growth segment.
“Her knowledge of the policy and regulatory landscape stemming from her leadership position at the SEC and deep U.S. public and private sector experience will help drive KAST’s momentum,” said Brad Jaffe, chief corporate affairs officer at KAST.
The company offers USD-denominated accounts and stablecoin payment tools across 170 countries, targeting both consumers and businesses.
KAST raised $80 million in a Series A round in March to fund its expansion, alongside hiring more than 200 staff across engineering, product, and compliance. The addition of regulatory communications leadership signals a shift toward proactive policy positioning as competition increases. The next catalyst will be how regulators respond to stablecoin growth and whether firms like KAST secure favorable frameworks for cross-border payments.
