Today, at a Senate hearing, Paul Atkins, the Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission admitted this. He claimed that a federal structure on crypto markets is long overdue. That in itself is a change of direction. The U.S. cryptocurrency regulation was based on enforcement rather than clarity over the years. Now, the tone is changing. What is more important is that Atkins affirmed that regulating bodies are no longer operating in silos.
SEC and CFTC Take Step Towards Co-ordination
Atkins claimed that the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission will collaborate in order to form a bridge to the overall legislation. This coordination matters. In the past, the dissimilarity between securities and commodities regulation generated regulatory stalemate. This left crypto firms at a crossroads. Innovation slowed. Capital hesitated. At this point, cooperation implies conformity. And conformity unleashes the gates to systematic regulations, instead of jurisprudential questions and answers.
Since the beginning of 2026, Atkins has managed so-called Project Crypto, a joint undertaking of SEC and CFTC aimed to standardize the regulation of digital assets. The project seeks to map jurisdiction effectively. It also tries to align the agency policy to bills that are progressing in Congress. It is worth mentioning that this initiative is in line with such legislations as Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act. The latter bill attempts to clarify the asset classifications and control of regulators. Should it pass, it may transform the U.S. crypto markets in the long run.
Atkins SEC Political Tension
The message was however not received with enthusiasm by all. In the hearing, Elizabeth Warren condemned what she termed as a weakening attitude on crypto enforcement. She brought up issues of donor influence and regulatory relaxation. That reply lays emphasis on a major fact. Regardless of the advancement in regulation, there is still political friction.
The bigger message still remains evident despite the backlash. The regulators in the United States are admitting that crypto is here to stay. Rather, they are ready to encompass it into formal financial law. In the case of markets, this lessens long-term uncertainty. To institutions, it reduces the legal risk. To the builders, it provides them with a better runway. Although it will take a long time to be enacted in legislation, the current testimony is that the tide has turned.
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
Pakistan Crypto Law Adds Up to Five Years Jail for Violations
Pakistan's Virtual Assets Act 2026 regulates its cryptocurrency market, imposing strict licensing requirements and penalties for non-compliance. The law aims to enhance transparency, reduce fraud, and establish oversight, fostering a safer environment while balancing innovation.
Coinfomania1h ago
Missouri Eliminates State Taxes on Bitcoin Capital Gains
Missouri will be the first U.S. state to eliminate state taxes on Bitcoin capital gains, effective January 1, 2025, fostering a pro-crypto environment and attracting investment. This landmark decision may spur competition among states to implement similar tax reliefs.
Coinfomania1h ago
U.S. banking industry plans to sue OCC, protesting the easing of crypto company banking license issuance
The Bank Policy Research Institute is considering suing the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency for relaxing federal licensing rules, making it easier for crypto companies to obtain nationwide banking trust licenses. The policy has raised concerns about consumer protection and the stability of the financial system, with multiple regulatory agencies and small banks voicing strong opposition.
GateNews2h ago
U.S. Treasury Highlights Risks From Crypto ATM Fraud
The U.S. Treasury report reveals a rise in fraud linked to crypto ATMs, highlighting their misuse by criminals due to compliance failures among operators. In 2024, over 10,900 scams were reported, resulting in $246.7 million in losses. Enhanced oversight is necessary to combat these issues.
TodayqNews2h ago
Former CFTC Chair: Banks Need the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act More Than Crypto Companies
Former CFTC Chairman Giancarlo pointed out that the U.S. Digital Asset Market Clarity Act has stalled due to disputes over rewards paid to crypto companies, making the demand for this legislation even more urgent among banks. He warned that if the impasse continues, crypto businesses might shift to Europe and Asia.
GateNews3h ago
Emphasize technological neutrality! The Federal Reserve: The capital recognition method for "tokenized securities" should follow that of traditional securities
The Federal Reserve and other agencies have issued new guidelines for the banking industry, requiring tokenized securities to follow the same regulatory capital standards as traditional securities, emphasizing that technological form does not affect the method of capital calculation. This reflects regulatory authorities' focus on the legal nature and risk assessment of financial assets, demonstrating the gradual integration of banks and blockchain finance, which helps banks evaluate the risks and costs of tokenization businesses.
区块客5h ago
