Coinbase Chief Legal Officer (CLO) Paul Grewal is advocating for a change in regulations that would allow Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) staff to hold and use cryptocurrencies. Grewal has formally requested the U.S. Office of Government Ethics to consider this proposal. The core argument centers around enabling SEC staff to gain firsthand experience and deeper understanding of the crypto space. This, in turn, could lead to more informed regulatory decisions. Currently, restrictions exist to prevent potential conflicts of interest. However, Grewal believes these restrictions might inadvertently hinder the SEC's ability to effectively regulate the rapidly evolving crypto industry. Allowing SEC staff to participate responsibly in the crypto market, with appropriate transparency and disclosure requirements, could be a beneficial step towards fostering innovation and responsible regulation. It would also help reduce the barrier of entry for staff who may understand the underlying nuances of the space. ```

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