SEC says crypto guidance is a first step as broader law is considered
SEC Chair Paul Atkins said the agency’s new guidance on crypto is only a starting point, as lawmakers work on wider rules for the industry.
Speaking Thursday, Atkins said the SEC will move away from its earlier approach of regulating through enforcement. Instead, the agency will focus on explaining how existing securities laws apply to digital assets.
He added that the guidance brings needed clarity but is not the final word, noting that a broader market structure bill in Congress could shape future regulation. Until then, the SEC sees its role as a “bridge” to help define how crypto fits under current laws.
Under the new interpretation, most cryptocurrencies are not considered securities. Only traditional assets that have been tokenized are likely to fall under SEC rules. Other digital assets—such as commodities, tools, NFTs, and stablecoins—generally fall outside the agency’s scope.
Meanwhile, lawmakers are continuing talks on a broader crypto bill, which could give more authority to other regulators and set clearer rules for the industry.
Featured image from: cointelegraph.com