The digital asset industry is closely watching the changes in leadership at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The new head of the agency, Atkins, has already outlined his priorities: creating a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, enhancing market transparency, and protecting investors’ interests. These statements spark cautious optimism among market participants who are weary of prolonged uncertainty.
Atkins Promises Clear Rules for Digital Assets
During the confirmation hearings, Atkins stated that developing regulations for digital assets is one of his top priorities. He emphasized the need for clear and predictable rules that will help ensure transparency and stability in the market, as well as strengthen the protection of both retail and institutional investors.
Atkins’ experience inspires confidence: from 2002 to 2008, he served as an SEC commissioner and, according to former U.S. President Donald Trump, actively fought for transparency and investor rights protection.
Crypto industry players are pinning great hopes on changes in the regulatory environment. CoinFund President Chris Perkins expressed hope for reduced uncertainty, stressing that clear rules could become a powerful driver of growth for the entire sector.
Market Expectations: Clarity, Access, and Development
Katherine Dowling from Bitwise Asset Management supported Perkins, noting that clear rules would allow companies to plan their operations and attract capital without fear of sudden regulatory actions. James Gernetzke, CFO of Exodus, expressed hope for a return to more familiar and predictable access to capital markets.
Perkins also highlighted the importance of the digital asset market structure bill, currently under development. He is confident that the bill will clearly define which assets fall under regulation, establish transparent disclosure frameworks, and create a solid foundation for investment attraction.
“This will be great because I will know exactly what my asset is, and I will be able to operate within a clear and transparent system,” he noted.
SEC Again Delays ETF Decisions
While the market lives in anticipation of reforms, the SEC continues to adopt a cautious approach. Recently, the commission announced an extension of the review period for applications to launch exchange-traded funds (ETFs) based on the Polkadot blockchain by Grayscale and Hedera by Canary.
Initially, the applications were submitted in February, and the new review deadline is set for June 11. The agency explained that additional time is needed to study rule changes and address issues raised in the proposals.
Dozens of New Crypto ETFs on the Horizon
According to Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas, there are currently 72 applications under SEC review for ETFs based on various alternative cryptocurrencies. Among the most anticipated products are funds based on Litecoin, Dogecoin, Solana, and XRP.
Earlier in February, Balchunas, together with analyst James Seyffart, assessed the likelihood of approval for a Litecoin ETF at 90%, Dogecoin ETF at 75%, while the chances for Solana and XRP funds were estimated at 70% and 65%, respectively.
These estimates suggest that the market remains quite optimistic but still heavily depends on the political will of the SEC and the new regulatory team.
The arrival of a new SEC head and his promises to bring order to digital asset regulation provide hope for a new era in the crypto market. Industry participants expect that in the coming months a transparent and predictable environment will be established, opening doors to new investors and ensuring long-term market growth.
Meanwhile, the market remains in a waiting mode: regulatory changes are brewing, and their consequences could be decisive for the future of the U.S. and global digital economy.
