Eric Adams Launches NYC Crypto Coin To ‘Combat Antisemitism’
Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams revealed Monday that he is launching a new cryptocurrency, known as the $NYC Token, announcing the initiative at a press conference held in Times Square.
Earlier in the day, Adams discussed the project during an appearance on Maria Bartiromo’s Fox Business Network program, where he said the digital coin is intended to help counter antisemitism and what he described as a growing trend of anti-American sentiment across the country.
“There’s a wave of anti-Americanism that’s sweeping not only our Ivy League college campuses, but in our inner cities,” Adams said. He added that proceeds tied to the token would also support education in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, as well as provide scholarship opportunities for New York City students.
“The money that’s raised is going to go to those nonprofits like Combat Antisemitism, going into the college funds, such as the historical HBCUs, so this is money that, without raising taxes, you can use to fight the issues, social issues in our city,” the former mayor added.
The $NYC Token’s official website describes the coin as a symbol of New York City’s spirit, stating that it “represents the unstoppable energy of the Big Apple.”
“Built for dreamers, innovators and believers who understand that in New York, anything is possible,” the website continues. “This is more than a token—it’s a movement.”
“There’s a wave of anti-Americanism that’s sweeping not only our Ivy League college campuses, but in our inner cities.” – Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams
Adams has publicly embraced cryptocurrency for several years and has frequently promoted digital assets during and after his time in office.
As one example, he converted his first mayoral paycheck into Bitcoin and Ethereum. Because of U.S. Department of Labor rules, however, the funds had to be exchanged through Coinbase, since New York City is not permitted to directly pay employees in digital currency, according to a press release issued at the time by the mayor’s office.
In October 2025, Adams signed an executive order establishing the city’s Office of Digital Assets and Blockchain Technology. The office was created to “promote the responsible use of digital assets and blockchain technologies, grow economic opportunities for New Yorkers, attract world-class talent and reinforce the city’s standing as the world’s hub for financial and technological innovation,” according to a press release.
In December, one of Adams’ final actions as mayor was the release of a 61-page blockchain strategy document. The plan was designed to guide city agencies in how to “investigate potential opportunities and risks, build public literacy on emerging technologies and establish mechanisms to track progress and coordinate citywide efforts,” according to a letter accompanying the report that was signed by New York City Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser.
{Matzav.com}
