Yeliz Akmaca 
Crypto markets are growing rapidly. However, the SEC’s unclear regulations are holding back this rise. Paul Atkins, who became SEC Chairman in April 2025, aims to address this issue. Atkins promises a “new day” for the crypto sector and is taking innovative steps. SEC Chairman Paul Atkins wants companies to custody and trade both securities and non-securities under one roof.
Paul Atkins’ Crypto-Focused New Approach
Paul Atkins acknowledges that the SEC has taken a harsh stance on crypto markets in the past. In his speech on May 19, 2025, he said, “Crypto markets have been languishing in SEC uncertainty for years.” To eliminate this uncertainty, he has taken action. In the same speech, he added,
“Although I have instructed our staff in the Commission’s policy divisions to draft rule proposals related to crypto, the staff continues to ‘clear the decks’ through staff-level statements.”
Atkins advocates for the SEC to return to an innovative approach.
“When I began my tenure as Chairman, I can tell you this: we are returning to our roots of encouraging innovation rather than stifling it,” he says. “Markets innovate, and the SEC should not be in the business of telling them to stand still.”
At the Roundtable Meeting on April 25, 2025, Paul Atkins pledged to modernize the regulatory framework for blockchain technology. He supports registered broker-dealers trading assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Additionally, he is reviewing custody rules to provide flexibility.
Search for a Legal Framework for Crypto Markets
Crypto markets are awaiting regulatory clarity. The U.S. Congress is considering a bill to clarify the roles of the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Atkins, in his speech on May 12, 2025, expressed support for Congress passing the law. However, he also noted that they could act under existing authorities. For example, the SEC is developing proposals for DeFi projects. A roundtable meeting scheduled for June 9, 2025, will focus on decentralized finance.
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