SEC Defends Crypto Rules Push Amid Industry Calls for Clarity Act

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Paul Atkins has downplayed criticism of the Trump Administration's push for clear crypto market rules, stating that clarity is not a favor but what markets require to function.

In a recent speech, Atkins emphasized that the regulator is taking historic steps to modernize its rules and regulations to facilitate on-chain transactions. He also noted that the agency has delivered long-awaited certainty for digital asset issuers through its guidance and staff opinions.

The SEC's efforts are part of the proposed CLARITY Act, which aims to align the regulator's and CFTC's oversight in the sector. Despite these initiatives, industry stakeholders continue to push for the passage of the bill into law, citing concerns that without clear rules, innovation will drift overseas.

In a separate interview with Bloomberg, SEC Head of Investment Management Brian Daly echoed Atkins' stance, stating that rebuilding trust is key and that the agency wants to make an orderly process out of the 200 ETF filings it receives every month.