- The SEC will propose new rules covering crypto assets, exchanges, broker-dealers, custody, and tokenized securities.
- Chairman Paul Atkins said the agenda aims to provide regulatory clarity while supporting innovation and investor protection.
- The upcoming meeting begins the public rulemaking process before the SEC considers final crypto regulations later this year.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has outlined its 2026 regulatory agenda, confirming a crypto rulemaking meeting will take place this month. According to the SEC, the effort will introduce proposals covering crypto assets, exchanges, custody, and broker-dealer rules while seeking public input before final regulations move forward later this year.
Crypto Rules
According to the SEC, the upcoming proposals aim to clarify the regulatory framework for crypto assets. The agency said the rules will provide greater certainty for issuing, trading, and holding digital assets while maintaining investor protections.
The SEC also plans to review exchange regulations alongside broker-dealer requirements. Proposed amendments include changes to liquid capital standards, customer asset protections during insolvency, and recordkeeping rules where crypto assets are involved.
Meanwhile, the agency said the proposal seeks to establish clearer rules for tokenized securities and on-chain financial markets. It added that the framework should reduce uncertainty while continuing enforcement against parties violating securities laws.
Paul Atkins Details Agency Priorities
SEC Chairman Paul Atkins said the agency has made significant progress since the start of his tenure. According to Atkins, the Commission wants its regulatory framework to reflect technological changes across financial markets.
He said the SEC aims to support innovation by creating clearer rules for crypto fundraising, custody, and on-chain trading. Atkins also said the agency intends to advance President Donald Trump’s goal of making the United States the global center for crypto innovation.
The agenda also includes proposals to simplify disclosure requirements for public companies. Additionally, the SEC plans to explore broader retail participation in private markets while maintaining investor safeguards.
Meeting Opens Public Rulemaking Process
According to the SEC, this month’s meeting will begin the formal rulemaking process rather than finalize new regulations. Draft proposals will become available for public comment before the Commission considers final adoption.
The agenda also follows several policy changes under Atkins. Notably, the SEC has shifted toward developing tailored crypto regulations after previously relying heavily on enforcement actions during former Chairman Gary Gensler’s tenure.
