US SEC eyes ‘innovation exemption’ to fast-track digital asset products: Atkins
News Summary
SEC Chair Paul Atkins announced the commission is working on an “innovation exemption” by year-end 2025 to streamline the approval of digital asset products. This regulatory carve-out would offer temporary relief from existing securities rules, enabling crypto companies to launch new offerings under lighter oversight while tailored regulations are developed. Atkins highlighted the recent approval of the first US multi-asset crypto ETP, covering Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Solana, and Cardano, as an example of progress made under new generic listing standards (Rule 6c-11) designed to accelerate ETF approvals. He emphasized the SEC's commitment to creating a stable platform for market innovation. Since taking office in April 2025, Atkins has been a vocal proponent of digital asset innovation, notably launching “Project Crypto” in July 2025 to modernize crypto securities rules. His stance that
Background
Following Donald J. Trump's re-election in November 2024, his administration's policy agenda has included fostering technological innovation and reducing what it perceives as overregulation in nascent industries. Paul Atkins' appointment as SEC Chair in April 2025 is seen as a manifestation of the Trump administration's drive to promote financial innovation and ease regulatory burdens in certain sectors. Atkins swiftly moved to action after taking office, launching "Project Crypto" on July 31, 2025, an initiative aimed at modernizing securities rules and regulations around crypto and helping financial markets move "on-chain." His stance sharply contrasts with his predecessor, Gary Gensler, who maintained that most digital assets should be treated as securities under the Howey test.
In-Depth AI Insights
What is the true strategic intent behind this “innovation exemption,” and how might it impact the long-term structure of the crypto industry? This exemption goes beyond mere regulatory relief; it appears to be part of the Trump administration's broader