SEC’s New View: Few Cryptocurrencies Are Actually Securities
SEC Chairman Paul Atkins shared a fresh outlook on cryptocurrencies during the Wyoming Blockchain Symposium 2025. He stated that only a handful of crypto assets qualify as securities.
This viewpoint contrasts sharply with his predecessor, Gary Gensler, who took a stricter stance. Gensler frequently enough viewed crypto assets through a securities lens, leading to numerous enforcement actions against the industry.
Atkins clarified that whether a crypto asset is a security depends on how it’s marketed or packaged. “Most tokens,by themselves,aren’t securities,” he explained. “It’s about the sales pitch and surrounding factors.”
Since April, Atkins has shown a more supportive attitude toward the crypto sector. This shift aligns with recent positive regulatory moves, like the launch of “Project Crypto.”
Understanding Project Crypto
Announced in July, Project Crypto by the SEC seeks to establish clear rules for crypto operations. It covers aspects like distribution, custody, and trading, aiding businesses in navigating token offerings.
- The SEC aims to prevent outdated regulations from hindering innovation.
- Regulators may use various authorities to ensure flexibility.
Atkins highlighted the importance of a regulatory framework that supports long-term innovation and protects against overreach. This effort reflects a broader push by the Trump administration to bolster the U.S.’s position in digital asset markets.
With landmark bills like the GENIUS Act moving forward, the crypto landscape looks set for change. Atkins remarked, “We must ensure our rules can adapt to protect innovation while preventing regulatory abuse.”
