SEC Unveils Sweeping Crypto Regulations Amid Congressional Push

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is making significant strides in regulating the cryptocurrency space. The agency has added three new rules to its 2026 Unified Regulatory Agenda, targeting a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in July 2026.

The first rule, RIN 3235-AN38, focuses on crypto asset offerings and may include exemptions and safe harbors. This is crucial as it would define when crypto offerings fall under securities law and potentially carve out pathways for compliant token issuance without full registration requirements.

The second rule, RIN 3235-AN48, addresses broker-dealer capital and customer-protection rules specifically tailored to crypto assets. This means any firm holding or clearing digital assets on behalf of clients would need to meet updated capital buffers and custody standards to mitigate the unique risks associated with cryptocurrencies.

The third rule, RIN 3235-AN49 - Crypto Market Structure Amendments - aims to provide clear rules for the issuance, custody, and trading of crypto assets. This is a significant departure from the previous approach under Chair Gary Gensler, who took an enforcement-led stance that many in the industry criticized.