Emre Yumlu 
Paul Atkins, the newly appointed Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has received a warm welcome from the crypto industry. Michael Saylor, one of Bitcoin’s most prominent institutional supporters, expressed optimism about Atkins’ stance on digital assets.
Saylor Praises New SEC Chair
On April 23, MicroStrategy CEO Michael Saylor posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating that “SEC Chair Paul Atkins will be good for Bitcoin.” Atkins officially took office on April 21 as the 34th chairman of the commission.
Blue Macellari, Head of Digital Assets at T. Rowe Price, also shared a positive outlook in a Bloomberg interview. She pointed out that the new SEC leadership seems more open to dialogue, especially with the crypto community. Referring to the commission’s recent engagement efforts, she said: “I believe these discussions will help shape more balanced and thoughtful regulations.”
Expectations for Clearer Rules on Digital Assets
Vincent Liu, Chief Investment Officer at crypto firm Kronos Research, stated that under Atkins, the long-awaited custody regulations for digital assets could finally be clarified. Liu also emphasized the need for proper classification of tokens—whether they are securities or commodities. “These two steps,” he said, “will enhance investor protection and unlock new waves of innovation.”
What Does Paul Atkins Mean for Crypto?
Appointed by President Donald Trump in late 2024, Atkins previously served as an SEC commissioner from 2002 to 2008. Although he has received support from several industry figures—Bitwise’s legal counsel Katherine Dowling described him as a “strong choice,” while Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse believes Atkins will “bring common sense” to the agency—his past record has drawn criticism.
Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren voiced concern over his role during the 2008 financial crisis. She also highlighted Atkins’ connection to Patomak Global Partners, a consulting firm that advised crypto exchange FTX prior to its collapse. “You’ve been paid millions to advise firms on how to influence regulators,” Warren stated, “and now you’re in a position to act in their interest.”
Rising Concerns Over Conflicts of Interest
Ahead of his appointment, Atkins disclosed personal and family assets exceeding $327 million, sparking calls for increased transparency. Liu emphasized the importance of ethical safeguards, such as mandatory disclosures, third-party oversight, and open comment periods for crypto regulations, to preserve public trust.
A similar situation arose with Trump’s AI and crypto advisor David Sacks, whose venture firm sold over $200 million in crypto-related assets before his government role was confirmed.
As Paul Atkins settles into his position, market watchers are keeping a close eye on how the SEC’s stance toward Bitcoin and digital assets may evolve under his leadership.
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