Why it matters

Dragon List Global Capital LLC is making its first-ever foray into federal lobbying. The company registered DLG Partners LLC on December 31, 2024, targeting banking and financial services issues. The timing coincides with Trump’s aggressive financial deregulation agenda and a historic wave of crypto lobbying.

By the numbers

Lobbying team composition:

  • Shane D. Jemison: Former legislative correspondent for Rep. Steve Russell (R-OK-5)
  • Oliver N.E. Kellman Jr.: Former legislative director for Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX-18)

Experience levels:

  • Jemison: 10 months congressional service (2015)
  • Kellman: 8 months recorded service across multiple Congresses (1999-2003)
  • Neither lobbyist shows previous federal lobbying registrations

Historical spending: No prior lobbying expenditures found for Dragon List Global Capital LLC.

Broader context

Trump’s second-term financial deregulation drive is reshaping the industry landscape. The administration issued Executive Order 14192 requiring elimination of 10 regulations for every new one. Financial enforcement has “sharply declined” in early 2025. At least 27 crypto companies filed first-ever lobbying disclosures this year. The “Fair Banking” executive order is combating “debanking” practices.

The agenda

Dragon List registered to lobby on “banking, financial institutions/investments/securities, and economics/economic development.” No specific legislation was identified in their filing. The broad focus suggests they could engage on multiple active Congressional priorities, including AI innovation sandboxes, private fund registration thresholds, and accredited investor reforms.

Competitive landscape

The financial services lobbying space is experiencing unprecedented activity in 2025. Traditional financial firms are also ramping up advocacy efforts. The deregulatory environment has created opportunities across banking, investment, and fintech sectors.

Between the lines

Congress is actively considering legislation directly relevant to Dragon List’s interests. The Unleashing AI Innovation in Financial Services Act would create regulatory sandboxes for AI testing. Rep. Andy Barr and Rep. Nydia Velázquez reintroduced legislation to raise SEC registration thresholds. Multiple hearings addressed capital formation and regulatory reform. The “The Future of American Capital” hearing examined barriers to investment access.

The bottom line

Dragon List’s lobbying entry reflects the current gold rush mentality in financial services advocacy. The company is positioning itself during a historic deregulatory moment. However, their inexperienced lobbying team may limit their immediate effectiveness in this complex environment.

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article