The new SEC Chairman Paul Atkins has outlined fresh goals for the crypto industry under his leadership.
In his testimony before the United States Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on June 3, 2025, the newly appointed chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) laid out his intention to establish a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework for the crypto sector.
Atkins noted that ambiguous and nonexistent rules have inhibited industry advancement, emphasizing that his tenure will address the gap to promote innovation while protecting investors.
“A key priority of my Chairmanship will be to develop a rational regulatory framework for crypto asset markets that establishes clear rules of the road for the issuance, custody, and trading of crypto assets,” Atkins stated.
He highlighted the need for clearer guidelines in prohibiting malicious activity within the industry, adding that “clear rules of the road are necessary for investor protection against fraud.” Addressing the controversial “regulation-by-enforcement” approach seen under former Chair Gary Gensler, Atkins emphasized his commitment to a shift toward structured and participatory rulemaking. He pledged to rely on “notice-and-comment procedures” to create fit-for-purpose policies tailored to the asset class.
The SEC chief added that the recently launched Crypto Task Force will continue to champion establishing a rational regulatory framework for crypto asset markets. He further expressed confidence in the leadership of Commissioners Uyeda and ‘crypto mom’ Hester Peirce, noting that the commission’s divisions will work to “expeditiously provide long-needed clarity.”
Appointed as part of the Trump administration’s promise to create a more favorable environment for the U.S. crypto scene, Atkins’ remarks reinforce his broader commitment to fostering innovation and providing clearer regulatory certainty for the industry.
