SEC Bolsters Leadership with Crypto-Experienced Officials
On Friday, June 13, 2025, The Block reported that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced four senior appointments, including two officials with expertise in digital assets, signaling a shift toward a more accommodating stance on cryptocurrencies under new Chairman Paul Atkins. The appointments, effective in June and July, aim to strengthen the agency’s regulatory oversight while fostering innovation in financial markets.
Jamie Selway will assume the role of Director of the Division of Trading and Markets starting June 17. Selway previously served as a partner at Sophron Advisors, where he provided guidance on capital markets issues. His experience includes advising financial technology firms and a brief tenure as global head of institutional markets at Blockchain from 2018 to 2019. Selway expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating that he looks forward to working under Atkins to advance the SEC’s mission and promote innovation for the benefit of investors.
Brian T. Daly will take over as Director of the Division of Investment Management on July 8. Daly joins from Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, where he was a partner specializing in investment management. His expertise spans digital assets, cryptocurrency, blockchain, and traditional financial services, including hedge and credit funds.
Daly previously commented on the SEC’s reversal of SAB 121, a Biden-era guidance that required banks to treat customer-held digital assets as liabilities. He noted that the rule had hindered banks and financial intermediaries from offering crypto custody services, which are essential for institutions providing cryptocurrency services to clients. Daly expressed optimism about contributing to regulatory compliance and tailoring rulemakings within the SEC’s authority.
The SEC also appointed Erik Hotmire as chief external affairs officer and Kurt Hohl as chief accountant. Hotmire returns to the agency, while Hohl will oversee accounting standards and financial reporting.
Paul Atkins, sworn in as SEC Chairman on April 22, 2025, has prioritized a more crypto-friendly approach following the departure of former Chairman Gary Gensler. In March, the SEC held its first crypto task force roundtable to discuss future regulations for digital assets.
Miles Jennings, General Counsel at a16z crypto, criticized the previous administration’s approach, stating it failed to achieve investor protection, capital formation, or efficient markets.
Source: The Block
