SEC Chair Paul Atkins promises clear crypto rules with focus on guidance instead of quick enforcement actions.
New SEC approach could allow crypto firms to self-custody assets under certain regulated conditions.
The agency may offer relief for new crypto products blocked by outdated financial regulations.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission hosted its fourth crypto-focused roundtable on May 12 in Washington, D.C. During the event, newly confirmed SEC Chair Paul Atkins set a sharp new tone for crypto regulation.
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The roundtable, titled “Tokenization: Moving Assets Onchain: Where TradFi and DeFi Meet,” brought together major industry voices. Participants included Robinhood Crypto, Fidelity Digital Assets, and the Token Asset Coalition. The session marked a clear departure from the SEC’s past enforcement-heavy approach under previous leadership.
Regulatory Shift Focuses on Clarity
Chair Atkins confirmed his focus on building a structured regulatory framework. He emphasized setting clear rules for crypto asset issuance, trading, and custody. The new direction aims to reduce the confusion many digital asset firms faced under former SEC enforcement strategies.
The SEC will now lean more on formal rulemaking and guidance. This contrasts with the past model where enforcement actions often came first. Atkins criticized the prior approach, stating it created uncertainty for firms attempting to comply with the law.
End of Ad Hoc Enforcement Strategy
The agency’s Crypto Task Force, which was established in January 2025, also had a key role in arranging the roundtable. The task force, under the watch of Commissioner Hester Peirce, will continue to create practical frameworks. These will outline clear registration processes, disclosure rules, and proper enforcement channels.
Atkins pointed out the shortcomings of the previous SEC model. Under the last chair, many crypto companies faced legal action without clear paths to compliance. Several cases were dismissed after the leadership change in January 2025.
New Custody and Broker Rules Under Review
Atkins indicated that custody rules may need adjustments. He mentioned the possibility of allowing self-custody under certain regulated conditions. This could expand opportunities for advisers and funds to directly hold crypto assets.
The SEC may also revisit its special broker-dealer framework. Under the new approach, exemptive relief could be offered. This would allow new crypto services and products to enter the market even if current rules block them.
Industry Reacts to SEC’s New Direction
The industry welcomed the updated tone. Firms expect better guidance and more consistent interactions with regulators. Atkins confirmed the SEC will provide realistic paths to registration instead of pushing enforcement first.
By moving away from ad hoc decisions, the SEC signals a new, more stable era for digital asset oversight. With ongoing discussions and future rulemaking, the crypto sector could see more regulatory certainty in the months ahead.
