Bitcoin Shrug Off Clarity Act Delay by Rallying Above $93K

Bitcoin surged above $93,000 on January 13, 2026, defying ongoing legislative uncertainty around the CLARITY Act. The asset has shown resilience amid delays in the Senate's approval process for the bill. Market participants attributed the price movement to a combination of regulatory optimism and renewed institutional interest.

The U.S. Senate Banking Committee, chaired by Republican Tim Scott, set a markup session for the CLARITY Act for January 15, 2026. This process is a critical step in the bill's journey toward becoming law. The CLARITY Act aims to clarify regulatory responsibilities between the SEC and CFTC, define digital asset classifications, and establish compliance pathways.

Meanwhile, crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded mixed results. Bitcoin ETFs saw $117 million in inflows on January 12, ending a four-day streak of outflows. Ethereum ETFs also reversed recent outflows, recording mild inflows. XRP ETFs continued to attract attention, extending a three-day inflow streak.

Why Did This Happen?

Bitcoin's rally followed the Senate Banking Committee's confirmation of a markup date for the CLARITY Act. The bill is seen as a potential turning point for the U.S. crypto market by reducing regulatory uncertainty. Market observers noted that the bill's passage could lead to increased institutional adoption and reduced market manipulation.

The timing of the markup session also coincides with increased legislative confidence among lawmakers. Reports revealed that several members of the Financial Services subcommittee had invested heavily in Bitcoin and related assets, including a $200,000 investment in a Bitcoin ETF by Senator Byron Donalds.

How Did Markets React?

The market reacted positively to the markup confirmation. Bitcoin's price crossed above $93,000, supported by the 50-day exponential moving average. Technical indicators such as the RSI and MACD showed strengthening bullish momentum.

Institutional investors also responded favorably. Strategy Inc. added 13,627 Bitcoin to its reserves on January 12, further reinforcing confidence in the asset. This accumulation follows a broader pattern of long-term strategic investments in Bitcoin.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Analysts are closely monitoring the Senate Banking Committee's markup of the CLARITY Act on January 15. The markup will allow lawmakers to debate, amend, and finalize the bill before it moves to the full Senate for a vote.

Another key focus is the bill's potential impact on ETF inflows. Recent data from CoinShares showed that outflows from crypto investment products totaled $454 million in the previous week, with Bitcoin ETFs seeing the largest outflows at $405 million. However, recent inflows have signaled a shift in investor sentiment.

Investors are also watching for a potential clash between pro-crypto lawmakers and an anonymous advocacy group called "Investors for Transparency." The group has launched a campaign against the inclusion of decentralized finance (DeFi) in the CLARITY Act, raising concerns about regulatory overreach.

The final text of the bill is expected to be released shortly before the January 15 vote. If passed by the committee, it will move to the full Senate for a vote, then back to the House for concurrence, and finally to President Donald Trump's desk for signature. Market observers estimate the bill could become law by March 2026.