SEC and CFTC Unite on Crypto: A Major Shift Towards Regulatory Clarity

Crypto Takes Center Stage as SEC and CFTC Harmonize Policies In a significant shift towards regulatory clarity, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) have moved to harmonize their policies on cryptocurrency, with Chairman Paul Atkins declaring "crypto is job one" for his agency. At a joint roundtable in Washington, D.C., held on Monday, September 29, 2025, the two agencies sought to address long-standing differences in their approaches to digital assets. The event marked a significant step towards greater cooperation between the SEC and CFTC, which have often been at odds over the regulation of cryptocurrency. According to Chairman Atkins, the harmonization of policies is a top priority for his agency. "Crypto is job one," he told reporters, emphasizing the need for clear and consistent regulations that can support the growth of the industry while protecting investors. The roundtable was attended by representatives from both agencies, as well as industry experts and stakeholders. The discussion focused on areas such as the treatment of digital assets, market structure, and investor protection. Background and Context The SEC and CFTC have historically had differing views on how to regulate cryptocurrency. While the SEC has taken a more cautious approach, classifying many tokens as securities subject to its oversight, the CFTC has focused on commodities such as Bitcoin. This dichotomy has created uncertainty for businesses operating in the space. Additional Perspectives Industry experts welcomed the move towards greater cooperation between the two agencies. "This is a positive development that can help to clarify regulatory expectations and reduce uncertainty," said Sarah Young, a partner at law firm Perkins Coie. "However, it's essential that any new policies are carefully crafted to balance the need for protection with the need for innovation." Current Status and Next Developments The SEC and CFTC have committed to continuing their collaborative efforts, with Chairman Atkins indicating that further joint initiatives will be announced in the coming weeks. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, businesses operating in the cryptocurrency space can expect greater clarity on the rules governing their activities. In a statement released after the roundtable, the SEC emphasized its commitment to protecting investors while promoting innovation and growth in the industry. "We recognize the importance of clear and consistent regulations that can support the development of this exciting sector," said Chairman Atkins. The CFTC also welcomed the move towards greater cooperation, with Commissioner Rostin Behnam stating, "This is a significant step forward for our agencies and for the industry as a whole." As the regulatory environment continues to shift, one thing is clear: cryptocurrency has become a top priority for both the SEC and CFTC. *Reporting by Coindesk.*