After four years of facing cryptocurrency regulations, Gary Gensler – former Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – is preparing to return to the classroom, this time to research and teach about artificial intelligence (AI) at the Sloan School of Management, MIT.

From Wall Street, SEC to MIT – Gensler's Journey

According to the announcement on Monday, #Gensler will focus on AI policy research and risks, amid the escalating global AI technology race, with strong competition from corporations like China's DeepSeek.

Before serving as SEC Chairman, he taught blockchain at MIT in 2018 and published research on systemic financial risks related to AI. This provided him with insights into both the potential and the risks of this new technology.

At MIT, Gensler will co-lead the FinTech AI initiative @CSAIL, collaborating with Professor Andrew W. Lo, aiming to research AI applications in the financial sector.

Gensler – "Crypto Villain" and His Legacy at the SEC

While leading the SEC, Gensler was known for his tough stance on cryptocurrency, using enforcement measures instead of proposing new laws. Under his leadership, #SEC filed over 125 lawsuits against major crypto companies, earning him the label of "crypto villain" in the community.

However, the spot Bitcoin ETF approved in 2024 – a turning point that allows investors to access crypto through legal channels – also occurred during Gensler's tenure.

Controversial Even Upon Leaving the SEC

Gensler's decision to return to MIT was not warmly received by everyone. Devin Walsh, Executive Director of Uniswap Foundation, expressed disappointment on X:

"As an MIT Sloan alumnus, I am extremely embarrassed and disappointed to see them rehire Gensler."

"It's a waste of time, tuition, and effort for any student wishing to study and support innovative technology."

Nevertheless, with his financial experience and leadership at the SEC, Gensler will still have a significant influence in shaping AI policy, especially as MIT has many partnerships with leading tech corporations and U.S. policymakers.

The question is: Will Gensler's research help promote practical AI policies, or is it just a new chapter in his controversial career?