The crypto industry is breathing easier. Paul Atkins, newly sworn in as SEC chair, is signaling a huge shift. At his first public events, he stressed clear, supportive crypto policy. Atkins said the SEC must fix the confusion left by his predecessor. He promised “rational, fit-for-purpose” rules that will boost innovation without chaos.
Atkins made it clear that blockchain technology can bring “huge benefits.” Efficiency, cost reduction, and transparency were among the perks he highlighted. His early moves show a commitment to engage with industry leaders, Congress, and market players. The goal is clear: craft smarter, cleaner crypto regulation.
JUST IN: 🇺🇸 Opening remarks and first public address by the new SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins at the Crypto Task Force Roundtable – Know Your Custodian: Key Considerations for Crypto Custody. ▶️👇🏼 pic.twitter.com/mabCJOjCYq
— Subjective Views (@subjectiveviews) April 25, 2025
SEC Focuses on Crypto Custody Challenges
Just days after taking office, Atkins led the SEC’s third crypto roundtable. The main topic: custody of digital assets. Atkins said crypto needs better rules around who holds digital assets for investors. He questioned whether current “special-purpose broker-dealer” models are enough.
The roundtable gave crypto firms a real voice. Veronica McGregor of Exodus said the atmosphere already feels less hostile. She noted that under Atkins, fears of false accusations have eased. Still, there is much work to be done. Upcoming SEC roundtables will dive deeper into tokenization and decentralized finance.
Crypto Industry Expects Big Changes at the SEC
Crypto leaders are optimistic about Atkins’ approach. Chris Perkins from CoinFund said the “regulatory reign of terror” is ending. He predicted a “golden age” where venture capital and developer activity will explode.
Katherine Dowling from Bitwise Asset Management echoed that sentiment. She stressed that Atkins isn’t killing regulation; he’s bringing clarity. Cases are being dropped or reassessed not because rules are disappearing, but because they need to be better defined.
James Gernetzke from Exodus added that companies can now work with regulators “on a reasonable basis.” Access to capital markets should improve, and more companies could pursue IPOs without fear. Confidence is clearly rising across the board.
Atkins Pushes for Immediate Action
Atkins doesn’t want to wait for Congress to act. Speaking at the SEC’s headquarters, he said the agency already has “ample room to maneuver.” New crypto policy can start even before lawmakers pass new laws.
He emphasized that while congressional input is welcome, the SEC must act now. Atkins pointed out that under his leadership, the agency will rethink outdated custody rules. The focus is on adjusting regulations to fit blockchain’s unique structure.
This proactive attitude marks a major change. Under former chair Gary Gensler, the SEC often clashed with crypto firms. Now, the industry sees an SEC that wants to cooperate, not just enforce.
The Future of Crypto Regulation Under the SEC
The road ahead looks promising. The SEC crypto task force, led by Commissioner Hester Peirce, will continue to hold key discussions. Peirce, long known as “Crypto Mom,” supports Atkins’ drive for smarter crypto policy.
Atkins’ ties to the crypto world also offer hope. He has advised major crypto companies and understands the industry’s challenges. His goal is clear: build a strong but fair foundation for crypto growth.
In short, the SEC under Paul Atkins is set to transform the regulatory landscape. By bringing clarity, reducing fear, and encouraging innovation, the agency is finally giving the crypto industry the chance to thrive.
