SEC and CFTC to Collaborate on New Rules for Crypto Innovation

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is signaling a friendlier approach toward digital assets, with Chair Paul Atkins saying the agency will work more closely with other regulators to support crypto innovation.

Good to know

• The recently passed Genius Act formally recognized stablecoins in U.S. law for the first time.
• SEC and CFTC are preparing joint rulemaking to create more certainty for digital assets.
• The Grayscale Digital Large Cap Fund approval is seen as a model for new crypto ETFs.

In an interview with Fox Business, Atkins highlighted the importance of collaboration between the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). He explained that creating consistent market structures will give both regulators and industry participants more confidence. Atkins said:

“We need to focus on the market structure aspect so there is certainty in the marketplace and direction for the SEC and the CFTC to work together. I anticipate joint rulemaking, so that way we can try to future-proof these rules and the relationships from some rogue regulator or something in the future. That’s my goal.”

The Genius Act and Stablecoins

Atkins pointed to the Genius Act, passed by Congress and signed by the President last month, as a milestone. The law formally recognized stablecoins as a digital asset category, which Atkins called “a huge step forward.”

This recognition, he noted, lays the groundwork for clearer regulation and opens doors for broader adoption in the financial system.

ETFs and Innovation

The SEC Chair also discussed the recent approval of the Grayscale Digital Large Cap Fund, describing it as another example of the agency’s evolving stance:

“That’s another example of how we can move forward. We can allow generic listing standards – that’s what that big step was – where there’s more certainty. It’s not just an ad hoc type of approach, but we’re trying to give the marketplace some kind of stable platform upon which they can introduce new products.”

He added that rulemaking around innovation exemptions is expected in the coming months, with a goal to finalize measures by year-end.

Atkins said the overarching goal is to ensure America takes the lead in digital asset innovation:

“I’m really very excited about this opportunity to make this industry in America stand on firm ground so that America can lead with innovation as the President’s called for.”