New SEC Head Paul Atkins Aims to Resolve SEC’s Crypto Regulatory Issues
On Friday, April 25, 2025, Law360 reported that newly appointed U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Paul Atkins announced plans to address longstanding issues at the agency, with a primary focus on regulating digital assets and blockchain technology.
Speaking at an SEC-hosted roundtable on cryptocurrency regulation, Atkins emphasized the need for clear guidelines to support market participants utilizing these technologies. He noted that regulatory uncertainty, exacerbated by the SEC in recent years, has hindered innovation in the sector.
Atkins highlighted the potential of blockchain to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, increase transparency, and mitigate risks within the financial system. A known advocate for cryptocurrencies, Atkins previously co-chaired the Token Alliance, an initiative under the Chamber of Digital Commerce. During his Senate Banking Committee confirmation, he disclosed $6 million in crypto-related investments, though none were direct holdings in digital assets. He stressed that fostering regulatory clarity for the digital asset industry is his top priority as chair.
The roundtable, the third in a series of four dedicated to cryptocurrency regulation, specifically addressed custody issues. Atkins told reporters that the SEC has significant authority to act on crypto markets without waiting for new legislation from Congress. While bipartisan support exists for a crypto regulatory framework, such a bill may take months to materialize. Atkins expressed confidence in the SEC’s ability to operate under existing laws, though he welcomed potential congressional backing to strengthen the agency’s actions.
During the interim leadership of SEC Commissioner Mark Uyeda, the agency took steps to resolve several lawsuits against cryptocurrency exchanges and withdrew guidance that had been unpopular with banks and other entities regarding cryptocurrency accounting. Atkins indicated that his priorities as chair are extensive, describing them as “as long as my arm.” He also suggested that he anticipates minimal interference from the White House as it seeks to influence independent agencies.
When questioned about the SEC’s climate disclosure rule for publicly held companies, which the agency recently ceased defending in court, Atkins stated that the issue would be addressed but offered no firm commitment, saying, “we’ll see” how related litigation unfolds. The climate disclosure rule remains a key topic for the SEC under his leadership.
Atkins’ appointment and focus on digital assets signal a shift in the SEC’s approach, aiming to balance innovation with regulatory oversight in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market.
Source: Law360
