#CryptoRoundTableRemarks

At the recent SEC #CryptoRoundTableRemarks, critical voices raised essential questions about DeFi, code, and accountability. SEC Chair Atkins noted, “Engineers shouldn’t be liable for how others use their code,” echoing a broader principle: creators of open-source tools aren’t inherently responsible for misuse. Commissioner Hester Peirce added that “code is speech,” protected under the First Amendment — a view that reinforces the expressive nature of programming. Erik Voorhees highlighted how smart contracts outperform human regulators by design.

Yet, others pointed out that decentralization isn’t lawless — it’s transparent, predictable, and user-driven. As finance becomes more code-based, regulation must evolve to differentiate between toolmakers and intermediaries, ensuring innovation isn’t stifled while protecting users.