Website of The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or SEC. Source: Jarretera - stock.adobe.com

Key Takeaways:

SEC’s Crypto Task Force Launch: The SEC announced a task force to shape a regulatory framework for digital assets, led by pro-crypto Commissioner Hester Peirce.
Stakeholder Engagement: The task force will collaborate with the CFTC, state, and international regulators while hosting roundtables to address crypto regulation challenges.
Shift in Regulatory Approach: Industry expects clearer guidelines on digital asset classification and federal oversight under the new administration.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced a new task force on January 21, led by Commissioner Hester Peirce, to create a regulatory framework for digital assets.

Known as “Crypto Mom” for her balanced stance on crypto regulation, Peirce will guide the initiative as the SEC seeks to establish clear regulatory boundaries, realistic registration paths, and sensible disclosure frameworks.

JUST IN: 🇺🇸 SEC launches new task force to create a "clear regulatory framework for crypto assets." pic.twitter.com/3W2VPWzQ3L
— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) January 21, 2025

This marks a significant move following the departure of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler.

Acting Chairman Mark Uyeda introduced the task force, which includes key appointments like Richard Gabbert as chief of staff and Taylor Asher as chief policy adviser.

The group will engage with stakeholders via roundtable discussions and collaborate with federal agencies, including the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), state, and international regulators.

Historically, the SEC has leaned on enforcement actions to oversee the crypto industry, particularly under Gensler and Jay Clayton, targeting unregistered securities and responding to high-profile collapses like FTX.

Industry participants hope the task force will usher in clearer guidelines and a more coordinated approach.

President Donald Trump, beginning his second term, has yet to comment publicly on cryptocurrency but has hinted at potential executive orders, sparking speculation about a federal Bitcoin reserve and new crypto policies.