Most Influential: Paul Atkins

Core Insights - Paul S. Atkins is reshaping the regulatory landscape for crypto assets at the SEC, moving away from the previous administration's approach [1][4] - The SEC under Atkins is focused on creating a clear regulatory framework for crypto markets, emphasizing the need for defined rules regarding issuance, custody, and trading [4][6] Group 1: Regulatory Changes - Atkins aims to develop a rational regulatory framework that discourages bad actors while providing clear guidelines for crypto asset markets [4] - The SEC has begun to drop investigations and lawsuits against crypto companies, a trend initiated by his predecessor, Mark Uyeda [4] - The SEC is publishing staff statements on various aspects of the crypto sector, which, while not binding, signal a new approach to engagement with the industry [4] Group 2: Future Initiatives - Atkins has requested the Commission staff to create clearer guidelines to help determine if a crypto asset qualifies as a security [5] - The staff has also been tasked with proposing disclosures, exemptions, and safe harbors for initial coin offerings, airdrops, and network rewards [6] - Atkins intends to engage with firms looking to distribute tokenized securities in the U.S. to prevent them from relocating offshore [6]