#SECCrypto2.0

• The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) introduced the "Crypto 2.0" program, a significant shift in the way it regulates cryptocurrencies. The program aims to develop a comprehensive and transparent regulatory framework for digital assets, fostering innovation as well as investor protection.

*Creation of the Crypto Task Force*

In January 2025, former Acting SEC Chairman Mark T. Uyeda initiated a dedicated Crypto Task Force to spearhead the Crypto 2.0 movement. Commissioner Hester Peirce was assigned to lead the task force with the objective of collaborating in tandem with SEC staff and the public for the formulation of definite regulatory guidelines, providing realistic paths to registration, and creating sensible disclosure regimes for crypto assets.

*Recent Developments and Industry Impact*

As a component of Crypto 2.0, the SEC has acted to rethink its enforcement activities against crypto companies. Most notably, the SEC has dropped cases against companies like Coinbase and Ripple Labs, suggesting a turn towards the demarcation of regulatory lines of control and the de-escalation of enforcement as a policy. Ripple Labs, for instance, settled its civil lawsuit with the SEC by agreeing to pay a reduced penalty of $50 million with no admission of wrongdoing.

•These actions reflect the SEC's intent to provide more guidance and foster the evolution of the cryptocurrency market, consistent with the general approach of the current administration to revamp cryptocurrency policies.