The post Trump’s SEC Could Transform Crypto Regulations in The US appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
The relationship between the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the digital asset industry has been rocky for years. But change might be on the way. In a recent meeting, the Digital Chamber’s Token Alliance spoke with SEC staffers for Commissioners Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda to discuss the 2025 SEC Digital Asset Policy Priorities. The crypto regulations in the US have never been clear. Could this mark the beginning of a more open and cooperative era?
Hinman Speech Critique
One major focus of the discussion was the controversial 2018 Hinman speech. The SEC’s Corporation Finance division has identified denouncing this speech as a priority. It’s been criticized for causing confusion, especially regarding the Howey Test, which determines whether an asset qualifies as a security. This test has been falsly applied to crypto. Critics argue the speech created unnecessary market confusion and a sense of favoritism. Essentially, it’s seen as dividing the industry into “winners” and “losers,” which harms transparency and fairness.
Removing the legacy of such informal guidance is seen as a critical step. Instead, experts encourage the SEC to rely on clear, formal rulemaking and no-action letters to provide straightforward compliance paths for crypto asset firms.
Building Trust with New Leadership
The meeting also shed light on the Token Alliance’s vision for the SEC under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Trump’s pick for SEC Chair, Paul Atkins, is viewed as a crypto-friendly figure with deep experience. Commissioners Peirce and Uyeda, known for their criticism of the SEC’s aggressive anti-crypto enforcement, could help lead this reset.
The Digital Chamber’s agenda for the SEC’s first 90 days includes some bold moves. These include reviewing ongoing investigations, stopping cases without actual fraud, and rescinding confusing guidance like SAB 121. They also propose withdrawing proposed amendments that aim to redefine “exchange” to include decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols.
Perhaps the most important goal is to shift away from enforcement driven regulation. They requested the SEC to foster a culture of transparency and collaboration. This could encourage innovation within the digital space.
What to Expect
The Token Alliance is optimistic about what the SEC’s new leadership could bring. Improving the relationship between the SEC and the digital asset industry might pave the way for clearer crypto regulations in the US. This will encourage more innovation, and stronger mutual trust. By focusing on fairness and transparency, this could finally be the fresh start the industry has been waiting for.
Will these efforts pay off? Only time will tell.
