SEC Chair Atkins Launches Critical Crypto Regulation Push After Government Shutdown

SEC Chair Paul Atkins is spearheading a significant shift in cryptocurrency regulation following a government shutdown, moving away from the enforcement-heavy strategy of his predecessor, Gary Gensler. Atkins has declared that most crypto assets are not securities, contrasting sharply with Gensler's approach which resulted in over 100 enforcement actions. The new administration has already begun dropping cases and established a Crypto Task Force led by Hester Peirce to create clear rules. Atkins unveiled "Project Crypto" in July 2025, a comprehensive overhaul aiming to create purpose-built regulations, including a formal token taxonomy, tailored disclosure requirements, and safe harbors for offerings. A major focus is tokenized securities, where Atkins is expected to grant relief allowing crypto platforms to compete with traditional brokerages by offering integrated financial services. TD Cowen notes the urgency, as rulemaking must begin soon to finalize changes by 2027. Furthermore, Atkins supports eliminating quarterly earnings reports in favor of semi-annual reporting and is coordinating with Congress on comprehensive crypto legislation, aiming to establish the U.S. as the "crypto capital of the world."

(Source：Brave New Coin)