Under the new Trump administration, the U.S. regulatory authority is undergoing a major reorganization in the digital asset sector.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is restructuring its approach to cryptocurrencies. According to the New York Times, the agency is downsizing its special enforcement unit dedicated to the crypto sector while simultaneously bolstering a new task force focused on regulation.
This decision marks a shift from the previous administration. The enforcement unit, which included over 50 professionals such as lawyers and other staff, is seeing some of its key members transferred to other departments within the agency. This move reflects the SEC’s new direction under Trump’s leadership, favoring a more constructive approach to the sector.
Meanwhile, Republican Commissioner Hester Peirce announced that the new task force will focus on classifying different types of crypto assets and related activities to determine which fall under the category of securities. The SEC has also launched a new webpage dedicated to the task force, opening a communication channel with the industry and the public to gather input and feedback.
This new direction contrasts with the approach of former Chairman Gary Gensler, who advocated for “regulation through enforcement” that had targeted U.S. crypto operators. His departure has paved the way for leadership more supportive of the industry.
President Trump has appointed Mark T. Uyeda, known for his pro-digital asset stance, as interim SEC chairman, and he has already begun making strategic appointments at the agency’s top levels. For the permanent chairmanship, Trump has nominated Paul Atkins, a former regulator with a long history of supporting innovation in the crypto sector.
