SEC must not let crypto companies 'bypass' rules, stock exchanges say

Core Viewpoint - The SEC's potential plan to allow crypto companies to sell "tokenised" stocks may pose risks to investors, according to a letter from a group of stock exchanges [1][3]. Group 1: SEC's Regulatory Approach - Several crypto companies intend to offer crypto tokens linked to listed equities, allowing retail investors to gain stock exposure without direct ownership [2]. - The SEC is considering an "innovation exemption" from securities laws to enable crypto firms to explore new business models [3]. - The WFE expressed concerns that such exemptions could jeopardize market integrity and investor protections [3][4]. Group 2: Industry Reactions - The WFE, which includes major exchanges like Nasdaq and Deutsche Boerse, has previously voiced alarm over platforms offering tokenised stocks [5]. - The letter from the WFE indicates a pushback from traditional finance against certain crypto initiatives, particularly as they begin to compete with established financial services [6]. - The WFE advocates for a level playing field, suggesting that both crypto platforms and traditional finance should adhere to the same regulatory standards [6][7].