Paul Atkins, chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), said the agency is prepared to move ahead with digital asset regulation using its existing powers. Speaking from the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday, Atkins said the SEC is finalizing an “innovation exemption” tailored for crypto-related projects. He added that this exemption could be released “in a month or so.”
The announcement comes as lawmakers in the U.S. continue working on digital asset legislation, including a market structure bill that could define the roles of agencies such as the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Despite the absence of final legislation, Atkins said the SEC remains committed to developing new rules.
“We have enough authority to drive forward,” he said in an interview with CNBC.
SEC Supports Industry Amid Shutdown and Legislative Delays
Atkins noted that recent government shutdowns have affected the pace of agency operations. However, he said the SEC has continued to make progress on crypto regulations. According to Atkins, the agency is offering “technical assistance” as Congress works on the broader digital asset framework.
During his remarks, Atkins pointed to ongoing efforts within the SEC to reduce enforcement actions on crypto companies. One of the measures mentioned was the issuance of no-action letters for decentralized physical infrastructure networks, which allow companies to operate without fear of immediate legal action under certain conditions.
Atkins’ Approach Aligned with White House Priorities
Appointed by former President Donald Trump and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in April, Atkins has taken steps that reflect broader White House policies related to blockchain and digital assets. His leadership has focused on supporting the development of crypto innovation while keeping regulatory safeguards in place.
Atkins’ comments were made during a public appearance where he rang the NYSE opening bell. He outlined the SEC’s upcoming plans, stating that 2026 would be a key year for crypto rulemaking as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.
Market Structure Bill Still in Progress
Lawmakers in the Senate Banking Committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee are currently working to finalize a digital asset market structure bill. The legislation aims to clarify the regulatory scope between the SEC and CFTC. Senate Banking Chair Tim Scott stated that the bill is expected to be ready for markup in December.
Although this bill remains under discussion, the SEC’s current stance suggests that it will continue developing crypto-related regulations independently. The agency’s work on the innovation exemption is part of that strategy, providing a possible framework for crypto projects to operate under clearer terms without waiting for new laws.
Atkins said the exemption could “help projects launch while staying within existing securities laws,” though he did not share full details of what it would include.
