The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission outlined a major shift in its approach to digital assets during opening remarks at a joint SEC-CFTC harmonization event, signaling stronger coordination between regulators and renewed momentum toward a federal crypto framework.
Key Takeaways:
The SEC and CFTC are formally coordinating on a unified regulatory framework for crypto markets.
U.S. lawmakers are closer than ever to passing bipartisan crypto market-structure legislation.
Regulators signaled a shift away from enforcement-driven policy toward clearer, principle-based rules.
Speaking at the event, Paul S. Atkins, Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, emphasized that Congress is closer than ever to sending bipartisan market-structure legislation to President Donald Trump. According to Atkins, the rapid growth of crypto markets has outpaced existing regulations, making a unified federal framework “long overdue.”
?? The SEC and CFTC Chairs Atkins and Selig launched "Project Crypto," this week.
? The joint initiative to harmonize crypto regulation and prepare for imminent bipartisan market structure legislation under President Trump's administration. https://t.co/g7TXlJrcTh pic.twitter.com/aUDWWb8EA5
— Bitcoin.com News (@BitcoinNews) February 1, 2026
A Joint SEC-CFTC Effort Takes Shape
Atkins highlighted close cooperation with Mike Selig, Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, calling the initiative one of the most ambitious inter-agency efforts in decades. The goal, he said, is to deliver “clear and principled rules of the road” for crypto asset markets rather than relying on fragmented enforcement.
He stressed that regulation should follow a “minimum effective dose” approach – enough to protect market integrity without stifling innovation or imposing unnecessary compliance costs.
Clearer Guidance After Years of Uncertainty
The remarks also pointed to tangible progress over the past year. Under leadership that included Commissioner Hester Peirce, SEC staff issued guidance clarifying the regulatory status of areas such as memecoins, stablecoins, crypto mining, and staking.
Other divisions provided guidance on broker-dealer responsibilities, transfer agent obligations, and how registered investment advisers and regulated funds may hold crypto assets through certain state-chartered institutions.
Why It Matters for Crypto Markets
The speech signals a meaningful pivot away from regulatory ambiguity and toward coordination, predictability, and legislative alignment. Rather than ad-hoc enforcement, regulators are openly acknowledging the need for clarity that allows innovation to coexist with investor protection.
With both the SEC and CFTC aligned – and Congress nearing action – crypto regulation in the U.S. appears to be moving from debate toward decisions.
