SEC Delays Tokenized Stocks Innovation Exemption Amid Concerns: Bloomberg
The SEC has delayed releasing a broad innovation exemption that would allow U.S. crypto firms to trade tokenized stocks and other digital assets, slowing efforts to integrate blockchain into mainstream securities markets. The agency postponed action after receiving feedback from stock-exchange officials and market participants, with major concerns centering on a provision that could allow trading of third-party tokens—digital versions of company shares issued without the company’s approval. Critics warn this approach could complicate dividend administration and shareholder voting for public companies. The delay impacts firms planning tokenized asset projects. SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce defended the exemption’s narrow scope, clarifying it would only apply to digital representations of existing equities— not synthetic assets.
