The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released an updated rulemaking agenda for the near future, with a key focus on initiatives aimed at reforming cryptocurrency regulation. A number of proposals related to the rules for the sale of digital assets, the creation of so-called “safe harbors” for crypto projects, and the possibility of allowing cryptocurrency trading on national exchanges have been added to the agenda.
This is reported by Business • Media
Changes for Digital Assets and National Exchanges
One of the central elements of the proposed changes is the initiative to amend existing legislation to allow cryptocurrency trading on national stock exchanges and alternative trading systems. Experts believe that if these proposals are adopted, the digital asset industry will receive a significant boost for development.
The SEC has also proposed easing requirements for public companies regarding disclosure and regulatory compliance. In particular, it plans to simplify procedures related to shareholder proposals and reduce the administrative burden on market participants.
Reform of Broker, Dealer, and Custodial Services Regulation
The SEC’s agenda includes about 20 new changes related to rules for brokers, dealers, and custodial services. It is proposed to review financial responsibility standards, which could reduce regulatory pressure on companies, as well as clarify how existing broker-dealer rules will apply to digital assets.
A separate block of reforms aims to modernize the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 — its asset custody requirements are to be adapted to the specifics of the crypto industry. This initiative was put forward by the SEC after the cancellation of stricter rules proposed in the previous period.
According to SEC Chair Gary Gensler, this reflects a shift in the regulator’s approach towards supporting innovation and reducing excessive burdens.
Gensler emphasized that the regulator plans to move away from overly complex rules introduced before 2025 and focus on ensuring effective and reasonable regulation. All initiatives are to be discussed and refined before final approval.
It is worth noting that earlier, the SEC Chair expressed doubts about classifying most tokens as securities, further highlighting the need to adapt regulation to the current realities of the digital asset market.