【Galaxy Digital Research Director: If the IRS Ultimately Classifies DeFi Frontends as Brokers, the Industry Will Face Tough Choices】Golden Finance reported that Galaxy Digital Research Director Alex Thorn stated that if the IRS does not withdraw its classification of DeFi frontends as brokers, the DeFi industry will face three choices: comply with IRS reporting requirements and accept the broker classification, attempt to block users from the U.S., or abandon smart contract upgrades and revenue generation. Yesterday, it was reported that the IRS issued final regulations requiring brokers to report digital asset transactions, incorporating DeFi platforms into the existing tax framework. The rule will take effect in 2027 and will require brokers to disclose transaction details, including total income and taxpayer information. Brokers must begin collecting and reporting data starting in 2026. The IRS estimates that between 650 and 875 DeFi brokers will be affected, potentially impacting up to 2.6 million taxpayers. These regulations mainly target 'front-end service providers for trading,' such as DEXs that facilitate digital asset trading. According to the IRS, classifying these platforms as brokers will help ensure tax compliance.