SEC’s “Project Crypto”: A Pro-Innovation Shift Under Paul Atkins
The Solana Policy Institute highlights SEC Chairman Paul Atkins’ July 31, 2025 launch of "Project Crypto," signaling a major shift from the enforcement-heavy era under Gary Gensler. This aligns with President Trump’s vision to make the U.S. the “crypto capital of the world,” following a White House report calling for new, innovation-friendly crypto regulations.
Innovation Exemption: Atkins proposes easing rules for crypto builders via an “innovation exemption,” aiming to create clear, simple guidelines for token distributions, custody, and trading.
Key Changes: The SEC plans to clarify which crypto assets are securities, expand self-custody rights, support multi-service “super-apps,” and offer safe harbors to reduce regulatory uncertainty.
Administration Backing: The White House supports this pro-innovation approach, urging Congress to modernize crypto laws and foster blockchain adoption.
Contrast with Past: Unlike Gensler’s aggressive enforcement and lawsuits (e.g., Coinbase), Atkins states that most crypto assets aren’t securities, promising clearer and friendlier regulations for crypto innovation.
This pivot is seen as a fresh start to position the U.S. as a leader in global crypto development.
