The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its Spring 2025 Regulatory Flexibility Agenda, led by Chair Paul Atkins, with crypto assets at the top of the priority list. The agenda highlights upcoming rule proposals designed to create a clear and consistent regulatory framework for crypto trading, issuance, and custody.
Atkins stated that the Commission aims to provide regulatory clarity and greater certainty to the fast-growing crypto industry. The proposed framework could include exemptions, safe harbors, and structured rules for the offer and sale of digital assets, with a public comment process already open. Wintermute has already submitted feedback to the SEC’s Crypto Task Force on tokenized securities.
Although no specific timeline for implementation was provided, the Commission noted that these rules will be a major step forward for the industry. Since assuming office, Chair Atkins has focused on aligning with President Trump’s vision to make the U.S. the global leader in crypto innovation. Earlier this year, Atkins also introduced Project Crypto, an initiative to modernize securities laws and integrate markets with blockchain technology.
The SEC recently partnered with the CFTC in a joint statement, signaling support for spot crypto trading on U.S.-regulated exchanges. Meanwhile, the Commission has begun moving away from the previous administration’s “regulation by enforcement” approach. High-profile lawsuits against Binance and Coinbase have been dropped, while the long-standing SEC vs. Ripple case has been resolved, with both sides withdrawing appeals.
Commenting on the agenda, Atkins emphasized that a top priority of his leadership is to provide “clear rules of the road” for digital asset issuance, custody, and trading, while continuing to act against fraud and misconduct. He also noted that the SEC has withdrawn several outdated proposals from the prior administration, reflecting his commitment to smart, effective, and tailored regulation.
This latest agenda marks a significant shift in the SEC’s stance toward the crypto sector, positioning regulatory clarity as the foundation for growth and institutional adoption.
