SEC Chairman Addresses U.S. Lag in Cryptocurrency Regulations

Key Points:* SEC Chairman Paul Atkins discusses U.S. regulatory lag and aims.

• U.S. crypto regulations behind by a decade, per SEC.
• Efforts focus on regaining crypto talent and fostering innovation. At a Washington, D.C. event, SEC Chairman Paul Atkins highlighted the urgency of addressing the U.S.’s lag in cryptocurrency regulation, describing it as a decade behind.

The SEC aims to build a regulatory framework to regain the U.S.’s competitive edge and attract displaced crypto innovation and liquidity back to the country.

SEC Focuses on Closing Decade-Long Crypto Regulation Gap

SEC Chairman Paul Atkins highlighted that the U.S. is ten years behind in cryptocurrency regulation, pointing out that the SEC now prioritizes building a robust framework. Atkins emphasized the need for a balanced approach, avoiding regulation through enforcement alone.

The SEC intends to develop a regulatory environment attracting firms that moved overseas, aiming to foster innovation within U.S. borders. This strategic focus signals a major policy shift from previous years of uncertainty and regulatory inaction.

“We’re doing neither of those [ignoring innovation or overregulation]. Atkins’ SEC is trying to make sure that we build a strong framework to actually attract people back into the United States who may have fled, but then also to be able to build a framework that makes sense for the future so that innovation can thrive.” — Paul S. Atkins, SEC Chairman

Crypto Talent Migration: The Consequences of Regulatory Delays

Did you know? U.S. regulatory inaction in the past led to a migration of crypto talent and capital to countries like Singapore, often seen as more favorable for innovation.

As of October 18, 2025, Bitcoin is valued at $106,935.86 with a market cap of $2.13 trillion, per CoinMarketCap. The cryptocurrency has experienced varied price movements, with a 0.79% increase over 24 hours, though down by 9.32% over 90 days, indicating volatility.

Bitcoin(BTC), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 11:25 UTC on October 18, 2025. Source: CoinMarketCap The Coincu research team suggests that regulatory advancements may lead to increased institutional interest in cryptocurrencies. Historical trends indicate that clear frameworks can significantly impact market dynamics by stabilizing investor confidence.