SEC Chairman Atkins promises transparent regulation of cryptocurrencies
New SEC chair Paul Atkins vows to replace crypto confusion with clear rules
New SEC Chairman Paul Atkins has set the stage for a regulatory shift in the U.S. crypto landscape, promising to replace the previous era of ambiguity with transparent, rules-based oversight.
Speaking before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on June 3, 2025, Atkins said his administration will prioritize building a “rational regulatory framework” for crypto asset issuance, custody, and trading, reports Crypto News.
He criticized the past “regulation-by-enforcement” approach and committed to using standard rulemaking procedures, including public consultation, to shape policy. According to Atkins, clarity will reduce fraud and promote innovation. His stance signals a pro-growth agenda that aligns with broader Trump administration efforts to foster U.S. leadership in digital finance.
Crypto Task Force to Lead New Era of Oversight
Atkins highlighted the SEC’s newly launched Crypto Task Force as a key driver in formalizing oversight for digital assets. He expressed confidence in Commissioners Mark Uyeda and Hester Peirce—often referred to as “crypto mom”—to help guide the development of market-specific regulations.
The Task Force aims to accelerate the creation of targeted rules that support investor protection while enabling innovation in decentralized finance and tokenized markets. The initiative represents a major step toward ending legal uncertainty that has long frustrated crypto entrepreneurs. Atkins also signaled plans to coordinate with other financial regulators to ensure regulatory harmony across jurisdictions.
Trump-Era Appointment Seen as Crypto-Friendly Shift
Atkins’ appointment was widely welcomed by the crypto industry, especially after years of regulatory friction under his predecessor, Gary Gensler. Industry leaders hope the new SEC leadership will strike a more balanced tone, encouraging capital formation without compromising consumer protection. The chairman’s remarks reinforce the administration’s strategy to position the U.S. as a global hub for blockchain innovation.
If successful, Atkins’ policies could help stem the exodus of crypto firms to overseas jurisdictions and provide the legal clarity necessary for the launch of more digital asset ETFs, institutional platforms, and tokenized financial products in U.S. markets.
Recently we wrote that Pakistan’s Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain, Bilal Bin Saqib, met with Robert “Bo” Hines, Executive Director of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Council on Digital Assets, at the White House to deepen bilateral cooperation on digital assets.
