SEC Chair Paul Atkins Unveils New Crypto Rules

Paul Atkins, newly appointed SEC Chair, announced plans on May 12, 2025, to enhance oversight of proxy advisory firms and create a clearer regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies.

The shift aims to reduce compliance confusion, impacting Ethereum, Bitcoin, and DeFi protocols as markets anticipate increased U.S. activity with potential regulatory clarity.

Paul Atkins, Chair, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, said, “SEC policy will no longer result from ad hoc enforcement, but instead the SEC will use rulemaking, interpretive and exemptive authorities…”

With Atkins’ leadership, the agency targets major advisors like Institutional Shareholder Services, alongside significant changes in the crypto sphere. He emphasizes clarity and structure, aiming to distance current practices from ad hoc approaches.

The regulatory moves are set to affect institutional players and crypto markets, particularly concerning Ethereum and Bitcoin. This marks a vital shift, with expected influences on investment strategies and compliance across related industries.

Financial and market implications are foreseen, especially for exchange-traded funds reliant on proxy guidance. This underscores the importance of establishing coherent standards for crypto assets, fostering investor confidence and regulatory transparency.

Historical parallels include previous SEC proxy oversight attempts under the Trump administration. Similar objectives are evident, aiming at standardization and legal clarity to avoid prior judicial setbacks.

Possible outcomes include enhanced regulatory certainty for governance tokens and DeFi protocols, mirroring the “safe harbor” principles advocated earlier. Such measures could bolster market stability and innovation within the crypto asset realm.