SEC Chair Pledges to Modernize U.S. Securities Rules for Crypto

U.S. SEC Chair Paul Atkins announced plans to modernize U.S. securities regulations and expand "Project Crypto" to integrate markets on-chain.
At a Paris event, Atkins emphasized a shift from enforcement-driven policies to clear rules for tokens, custody, and trading platforms.
Atkins stated that most tokens are not securities and promised specific guidelines for when crypto assets fall under SEC oversight.
He aims to enable capital raising on-chain and provide a framework for integrated platforms handling trading, lending, and staking.
Custody rules will be updated to offer investors multiple options.
The expansion of Project Crypto is expected to facilitate tokenized securities, new on-chain asset classes, and decentralized finance software.
Atkins highlighted the potential for "super-app" trading platforms and stressed keeping innovation within the U.S.
Nasdaq President Tal Cohen mentioned tokenization as a significant opportunity, with Nasdaq seeking SEC approval for trading tokenized securities.
Beyond crypto, Atkins discussed foreign company listings, accounting standards, and European regulation challenges.
Atkins addressed artificial intelligence's potential to transform financial markets through "agentic finance," where AI systems manage trades and risks.
He advocated for regulatory guardrails to support innovation without stifling growth, aiming for U.S. leadership in future financial advancements.