CFTC acting chair initiates roundtables on crypto market structure for regulatory safeguards
CFTC acting chair initiates roundtables on crypto market structure for regulatory safeguards
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is set to host a series of public roundtables to examine critical issues related to market structure, including digital assets.
The announcement, made by acting CFTC Chair Caroline Pham on January 27, signals a renewed focus on addressing regulatory gaps and developing clearer guidelines for the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market.
Pham, who was appointed as acting chair following President Donald Trump’s inauguration, emphasized that the CFTC would take a “back to basics” approach, engaging with industry leaders and market participants to gather data, expert opinions, and public input. The goal is to create a robust administrative record that can inform future regulatory actions. Pham noted that the discussions would cover a wide range of topics, including conflicts of interest, prediction markets, and the regulation of digital assets.
“By hosting staff roundtables, we aim to ensure that the evolving landscape of digital assets is met with clear rules and safeguards that foster economic growth and enhance U.S. competitiveness,” Pham said in her announcement.
The shifting regulatory landscape for crypto
This move comes at a time of significant change within the CFTC, as former chair Rostin Behnam stepped down on January 20, 2025, and Pham assumed her new role. As the agency shifts its focus, lawmakers in Congress are also exploring legislation that could redefine how the CFTC and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulate digital assets.
A key piece of legislation, the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century bill, passed the House of Representatives in May 2024 and is expected to move to the Senate soon. This bill seeks to clarify the roles of the SEC and CFTC in regulating crypto markets.
As the CFTC embarks on its roundtable discussions, the outcome could reshape the regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies in the U.S. The agency's efforts to bring clarity to crypto regulations are being closely watched, with many in the industry hoping that the new administration will provide clearer, more cohesive rules that will allow the digital asset space to thrive.
