New York Financial Services Regulator Harris to Depart

Core Points - New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the departure of Superintendent Adrienne Harris from the Department of Financial Services (DFS) and appointed Kaitlin Asrow as the acting superintendent effective October 18, 2025 [1] - During her tenure, Harris implemented significant regulatory measures, including guidelines for artificial intelligence in insurance, mandated insulin coverage without cost sharing, and established a virtual currency unit [3][4] - Under Harris's leadership, DFS recovered over $725 million in restitution for New Yorkers since 2021 and issued 102 regulatory guidance letters while amending 57 regulations [4] Background of Adrienne Harris - Harris was nominated by Hochul in August 2021 and has a background in law, having worked at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP and the U.S. Department of the Treasury [5][6] - She contributed to financial reform efforts and consumer protections during her time at the White House as part of the National Economic Council [6] Background of Kaitlin Asrow - Asrow has served as executive deputy superintendent of the Research & Innovation division at DFS for the past four years, focusing on virtual currency regulation and technological infrastructure [8][9] - Prior to joining DFS, Asrow worked at the Federal Reserve System and the Center for Financial Services Innovation, holding roles that involved innovation policy and consumer financial health [10][11] Overview of DFS - DFS was established in 2011 and regulates over 3,000 financial institutions with nearly $10 trillion in assets, including more than 1,900 insurance companies and over 1,300 banks [12]