- Political investments in cryptocurrencies generate controversy and speculation.
- US legislation requires greater transparency in crypto transactions.
- Meme coins attract attention with listings and high volatility.
U.S. Rep. Mike Collins, representing Georgia's 10th district, kicked off 2025 by touting cryptocurrency investments, With focus on altcoins and meme tokens. In a financial report filed on January 1, he revealed the purchase of between $1.001 and $15.000 worth of Ski Mask Dog (SKI), a cryptocurrency launched in May 2024.
The acquisitions occurred in three separate transactions between December 1 and 3, 2024, shortly after the U.S. election. During this period, the SKI token rose from less than $0,01 to reach $0,35 at its peak, before stabilizing at around $0,25. This significant appreciation has raised questions about the influence of high-profile investors in the crypto market.
While Collins has invested in a number of cryptos including Ethereum (ETH), Velodrome (VELO), Aerodrome Finance (AERO) and The Graph (GRT), his SKI transactions have attracted the most attention due to their strategic timing and direct impact on prices. The congressman’s latest purchase, made on December 3, was only disclosed in January, raising concerns about possible strategic delays and the transparency of the process.
Under legislation known as the STOCK Act, U.S. lawmakers must report stock and cryptocurrency transactions within 45 days. However, the lack of details about the reasons for the delay in disclosure has fueled criticism about potential conflicts of interest between public office and investment activities.
SKI’s appreciation was also driven by speculation about its possible listing on Binance, following evidence shared by the crypto community. Furthermore, technical analysis suggests a bullish price pattern, with solid support and strong trading activity.
The debate over restrictions on crypto transactions by lawmakers continues to be on the agenda, especially with proposals to strengthen the regulation of the STOCK Act. Collins joins other lawmakers, such as Senators Ted Cruz and Cynthia Lummis, in moves that put cryptocurrencies in the spotlight of the US Congress.