US SEC Overview in 2024 and Expectations for 2025

As 2025 kicks off, the crypto sector is bracing for major regulatory changes. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is undergoing significant changes, signaling a new era for the crypto industry.

As 2025 begins, the crypto industry is preparing for major regulatory shifts. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is undergoing significant changes, promising a new era for crypto.

Following Donald Trump's re-election and the appointment of pro-crypto leaders like Paul Atkins and David Sacks, expectations are running high.

Many see this as a turning point for the industry's future, especially after SEC Chair Gary Gensler's tough stance. His tenure was marked by regulatory uncertainty and legal battles with industry giants.

A振り返り of US SEC in 2024 and Anticipations for 2025

Despite the milestones, 2024 was a turbulent year for the crypto industry. Bitcoin (BTC) hit the $100,000 mark for the first time ever.

Moreover, Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) gained massive popularity with institutional adoption.

Significantly, the industry witnessed the fourth Bitcoin halving in Q2. These events showcased the maturing market. However, these milestones were overshadowed by persistent regulatory crackdowns.

Under Gary Gensler's leadership, the SEC took an aggressive approach to crypto, targeting major players like Ripple, Coinbase, and Uniswap. His claims that crypto was inherently linked to fraud caused a lot of tension in the industry.

Gensler's aggressive approach was met with heavy criticism from crypto proponents and political leaders.

During his campaign, Donald Trump promised to fire Gensler and adopt a more innovation-friendly approach, giving crypto supporters hope.

After his victory, Gensler tendered his resignation, paving the way for Trump to appoint Paul Atkins as the new SEC Chair.

Anticipations for 2025 are high, with hopes that Paul Atkins' leadership will bring clarity to crypto regulation. Many believe he can protect investors while fostering innovation in the industry.

Role of Paul Atkins and the Crypto Czar

Paul Atkins, a former SEC commissioner known for market-friendly policies, will lead the SEC for 4 years.

Atkins is set to lead the SEC for 4 years, driving his vision of promoting innovation while protecting consumers.

His approach marks a clear shift from his predecessor's strict regulatory stance, which could signal a potential change in the SEC's approach to digital assets.

In a bold move, Trump created a new role of "Crypto Czar."

The incoming President appointed David Sacks, a tech investor, to oversee cryptocurrency and AI policies. Sacks will be in charge of shaping regulations in these fields.

Atkins aims to make the SEC more transparent and work with self-regulatory organizations.

He will simplify rules to make them clear and fair while encouraging innovation, an approach that has garnered support from entrepreneurs and investors.

However, figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized it, fearing it could weaken investor protection.

Crypto ETF Applications and the Road Ahead

Under Gensler, the SEC was slow to approve Spot Bitcoin ETFs, but these ETFs were finally approved in late 2024, marking a key change.

With Atkins at the helm, the crypto industry hopes for faster reviews of other crypto ETF proposals. This includes potential XRP and Solana (SOL) ETFs.

Market experts believe the new SEC leadership could pave the way for more opportunities for crypto investment and growth.

By creating a friendlier regulatory climate, Atkins could attract institutional investors who were previously deterred by the SEC's approach.

While challenges remain in striking a balance between innovation and investor protection, Atkins and Sacks can help the SEC find a better equilibrium.

The shift to a pro-crypto regulatory environment under Trump's presidency marks a pivotal moment for the crypto industry.

As Bitcoin prices continue to rise and institutional interest in crypto grows, the revamped SEC under Paul Atkins has the power to transform the industry. His tenure could help position the United States as a world leader in blockchain innovation.