Chair Paul Atkins Says It's a 'New Day' for the SEC, Calls for 'Rational' Crypto Regulation
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Paul Atkins aims to establish a "rational regulatory framework" for digital assets, focusing on rulemaking and transparency rather than enforcement actions. He emphasized the need for clear regulations to protect investors from fraud and scams. Atkins' approach contrasts with former chair Gary Gensler's enforcement-heavy strategy. Under Atkins, the SEC has dropped several high-profile lawsuits and provided guidance on crypto regulations, including exemptions for certain staking activities. Concurrently, Congress is considering the CLARITY Act, which would limit SEC authority over crypto and create a new legal framework. Critics express concerns about potential loopholes in the bill. Atkins highlighted the SEC's Crypto Task Force and upcoming DeFi roundtable as initiatives to support innovation in the sector.
