paulatkins

Paul Atkins, chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), dropped a bombshell this week during a speech at the New York Stock Exchange and an interview with CNBC, announcing that the SEC plans to release the highly anticipated 'innovation exemption' by January 2026.
This new policy will allow cryptocurrency companies to launch on-chain products under a temporary regulatory grace period without immediately facing the heavy compliance burden of securities laws.
Atkins emphasized that this marks the end of the past era of 'regulation by enforcement' for the SEC, shifting towards providing clear rules and forward-looking guidance.

In a surprising shift that could reshape crypto fundraising in the U.S., SEC Chair Paul Atkins stated on Tuesday that most Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) should not be considered securities—and therefore should not fall under SEC regulation.
This marks a major reversal of previous regulatory positions, which since 2017 labeled nearly all ICOs as illegal, unregistered securities offerings.
“That’s what we want to encourage,” Atkins said at the Blockchain Association’s annual summit. “In our view, those kinds of offerings don’t fall under the definition of a security.”

Atkins Introduces New "Token Taxonomy"
Atkins based his comments on a classification framework he introduced last month. In it, he divides crypto tokens into four major categories:
🔹 Network tokens (used to operate decentralized blockchains)

🔹 Digital collectibles (like NFTs)

🔹 Utility tokens (such as memberships, tickets, or services)

🔹 Tokenized securities (digital representations of traditional stocks or financial assets)
According to Atkins, only the last category—tokenized securities—should be regulated by the SEC. The other three should fall outside the agency’s jurisdiction.
“Three of these areas fall under the CFTC’s oversight, not ours,” Atkins explained. “We’ll focus exclusively on tokenized securities.”

A Historic Pivot in Crypto Oversight
Atkins’ stance represents a dramatic shift from previous SEC leadership, which enforced the view that “almost everything is a security.” His more crypto-friendly approach could revive the ICO market in the U.S.
During Donald Trump’s first term, the SEC filed dozens of lawsuits against ICO issuers. But now, the SEC’s role in crypto oversight could be diminished, as most tokens may fall under the more lenient Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
Some legal experts believe this move reflects a broader push in Congress to strengthen the CFTC’s role, aligning the U.S. more closely with crypto regulatory practices in the UK and parts of Asia.

What Tokens Would Be Exempt?
Under Atkins' framework, the following token types would not be treated as securities:
🔹 Tokens powering decentralized networks

🔹 Tokens tied to internet culture (memes, characters, events)

🔹 Tokens with practical use—such as access passes, tickets, or membership systems
Atkins also mentioned that the SEC’s “Project Crypto” initiative could support ICO development through exemptions and safe harbor rules.

Industry Moves Ahead—Coinbase Launches New ICO Platform
While the U.S. Senate continues to debate a broader crypto market structure bill, industry players aren’t waiting. Coinbase recently launched a new ICO platform after acquiring Echo for $375 million, giving U.S. retail investors access to newly created tokens.

Summary in a Minute:
🔹 SEC Chair Paul Atkins says most ICOs shouldn't be treated as securities

🔹 New token classification: only tokenized securities fall under SEC oversight

🔹 Could reignite the ICO boom and shift crypto authority to CFTC

🔹 Industry is responding: Coinbase launches U.S.-compliant ICO platform

#CryptoRegulation , #SEC , #bitcoin , #PaulAtkins , #TRUMP

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Notice:
,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

Paul Atkins has unveiled fresh plans at the SEC Crypto Roundtable to turn the US into the crypto capital of the world.
US SEC Chair Paul Atkins has revealed ambitious plans to create a rational regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies under his tenure.

Atkins delivered a keynote speech at the SEC Crypto Roundtable, confirming the start of a "new day" for the securities watchdog.
Paul Atkins Unveils Regulatory Direction at SEC Crypto Roundtable
The SEC's new chair, Paul Atkins, has announced plans to change the direction of regulatory enforcement by the securities agency.

According to a keynote address at the SEC Crypto Roundtable on Tokenization, Atkins is committed to advancing a clear regulatory framework, with the goal of making the U.S. the crypto capital of the world.
Going forward, the new SEC chair says the commission will abandon its 'shoot-first-and-ask-questions-later approach' in favor of crystal clear regulations.

The roundtable meeting comes on the heels of an SEC meeting with BlackRock that revolved around tokenization and staking. During the meeting, he said:
It's a new day in the SEC. Policy making will no longer result from ad hoc enforcement actions.
Atkins noted at the SEC Crypto Roundtable that his tenure on the commission will prioritize stronger rules for cryptocurrencies in three major areas – issuance, custody, and trading.

Amid signs of an avalanche of regulations, the SEC is considering a possible tokenization exemption for cryptocurrency service providers.
New Rules for Cryptocurrency Custody and Trading
As the SEC Crypto Roundtable gets underway, Paul Atkins’ speech hints at a wave of new regulation set to change the cryptocurrency landscape.

For starters, the SEC has the issuance of crypto assets firmly in its sights and will be enacting new regulations to provide clarity.
Second, Atkins noted that the SEC will provide regulatory clarity for a qualified custodian while committing to update the custody rules.

Additionally, Paul Atkins notes that a broker-dealer's rules may need to be updated in light of perceived restrictions on custodial services.
"Additionally, it may be necessary to repeal and replace the special-purpose broker-dealer framework with a more robust system," Atkins said.
Finally, Paul Atkins revealed plans to improve existing rules around trading cryptocurrencies during the SEC Crypto Roundtable.

Going forward, broker-dealers will offer securities and non-securities in a single super app.
Atkins notes that the ATS regulatory regime will accommodate cryptocurrencies in the near future.

In his SEC Crypto Roundtable keynote address, the SEC Chair hinted at the potential for cryptocurrencies to be traded on national securities exchanges.
Since Paul Atkins took over, excitement among market participants has been at an all-time high, with the SEC wrapping up its long-running lawsuits against service providers.

The Commission has filed a settlement agreement letter in the Ripple SEC case, bringing the five-year-old case to a close.

#SEC #PaulAtkins #USCrypto #CryptoNewss #Market_Update

Coinbase’s Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal has voiced strong support for Paul Atkins, the incoming U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chair nominee, who has pledged to prioritize regulatory clarity in the crypto industry. Grewal welcomed Atkins’ stance, describing it as a much-needed shift that could benefit both innovation and financial markets in the United States.T he remarks came after a Senate Banking Committee hearing evaluating Atkins' nomination, where the nominee emphasized his commitment to establishing a transparent regulatory environment for digital assets. Grewal, who attended the hearing in person, highlighted key statements made by Atkins and Comptroller of the Currency nominee Jonathan Gould on the social media platform X.
SEC’s New Direction: Crypto at the Forefront
Atkins, who has been a long-time advocate for free markets, stressed that his leadership would prioritize providing structured and workable regulations for cryptocurrencies. He believes that clearer guidelines will help unlock U.S.-based innovation, open new markets for investors, and solidify America's global leadership in financial technology.
Grewal acknowledged Atkins' commitment, stating:
“Getting workable rules and regulatory clarity for crypto will unlock U.S.-based innovation, new markets for investors, and benefit American consumers and America’s position as a global technological and economic leader.”
Ending Debanking & Strengthening Financial Inclusion
Another major point of discussion at the hearing was the controversial practice of debanking, where crypto-related companies and underserved communities have struggled to access banking services. Both Atkins and Gould expressed a firm stance on ending this practice and returning the SEC to its foundational mission—protecting investors and fostering fair markets.
Grewal commended this approach, stating that Atkins’s leadership would be a “breath of fresh air” at the SEC, promising a more open and collaborative regulatory environment. He also expressed anticipation for Atkins's official confirmation by the Senate.
Atkins's Vision for the SEC Under the Trump Administration
Atkins linked his focus on crypto regulations to broader economic goals aligned with the Trump administration’s vision. He stated:
“A top priority of my chairmanship will be to work with my fellow commissioners and Congress to provide a firm regulatory foundation for digital assets through a rational, coherent, and principled approach.”
He also reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the U.S. remains the best and most secure place for investments:
“Should I be confirmed, my goal will be to ensure that the United States is the best and most secure place in the world to do business and for Americans to invest their hard-earned dollars to save and provide for their future.”
Industry Response: Positive Outlook for Crypto Regulation
Coinbase has been at the forefront of pushing for clearer crypto regulations in the U.S. and has often clashed with the SEC over its past enforcement-first approach. With Atkins’ nomination, the crypto industry sees renewed hope for a regulatory framework that encourages growth instead of stifling innovation.
As Atkins awaits confirmation, crypto advocates and businesses are closely watching whether his leadership will indeed bring the long-awaited regulatory clarity that the industry has been calling for.
The post appeared first on CryptosNewss.com
#PaulAtkins #PaulGrewal #SEC $BTC

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Paul Atkins emphasized the need to strike a careful balance between firm regulatory enforcement and fostering innovation in the crypto space. Speaking on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” Wednesday morning, Atkins reaffirmed the SEC’s commitment to protecting investors, preventing fraud, and maintaining fair and orderly markets.
Atkins addressed concerns regarding coordinated trading activities on platforms like Telegram and Signal, especially in the context of crypto tokens. One notable example mentioned was “Sorkin Coin,” a satirical meme token that briefly achieved a market cap in the hundreds of millions despite its parody origins.
“Fraud is fraud, regardless of the technology behind it,” Atkins said. He also acknowledged that some SEC actions might have inadvertently stifled innovation in the crypto industry. “We understand we are sometimes seen as an obstacle, but our goal is to maintain balance,” he added.

Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnXGWBa7u2k&t=6s

🔹 Congress, Trading, and Transparency

Atkins also responded to questions about SEC’s oversight of congressional stock trading. While the STOCK Act was passed to improve transparency, enforcement remains a challenge. He noted that the SEC receives thousands of whistleblower tips and takes each one seriously.

🔹 Modern Disclosure and Fair Access

With the evolving nature of how companies release information—ranging from press releases to podcasts and social media—Atkins stressed the importance of ensuring fair access for all investors. “It’s up to the issuers to guarantee that information reaches everyone fairly,” he said.

🔹 Private Credit Markets: A Word of Caution

A key issue in the interview was the growing pressure to allow retail investors access to private credit markets. Atkins warned that less sophisticated investors might end up holding “the worst credits” that institutions have already rejected. He indicated that the SEC is considering revising its criteria for accredited investors to ensure better protection.
“Given the ongoing evolution of private markets, having strong safeguards in place is more critical than ever,” Atkins concluded.

#SEC , #PaulAtkins , #Regulation , #CryptoInnovation , #CryptoNews

Stay one step ahead – follow our profile and stay informed about everything important in the world of cryptocurrencies!
Notice:
,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“