SEC’s Atkins: Crypto Guidance Is First Step Toward Greater Regulatory Clarity

TLDR

• The SEC indicates that most cryptocurrencies do not qualify as securities under its new interpretive guidance
• Tokenized traditional securities will continue to fall under SEC supervision
• The SEC and CFTC have signed an agreement to coordinate their crypto regulatory efforts
• The CLARITY Act passed the House but is still awaiting Senate action
• Atkins describes the guidance as a starting point for broader regulatory clarity

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(SeaPRwire) –   The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has released a new interpretation of crypto assets, signaling a shift in its regulatory direction. Chair Paul Atkins called it an early step toward clearer rules, with more coordination expected across agencies and Congress as digital asset oversight continues to develop.

SEC Signals Transition to Structured Crypto Regulation

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has rolled out a new interpretation of crypto regulations. Chair Paul Atkins referred to it as “a beginning, not an end.” He stated the goal is to provide clearer guidance for markets and investors.

The agency noted that most cryptocurrencies are not classified as securities under federal law. This marks a departure from past enforcement-focused actions. Atkins said rules must guide markets while allowing innovation and protecting investors.

LATEST: SEC Chair Paul Atkins says the agency’s new crypto interpretation is “a beginning, not an end,” signaling more regulatory clarity is coming. pic.twitter.com/Z1xsqcn9XO

— CoinMarketCap (@CoinMarketCap) March 20, 2026

He also pointed out that digital commodities, NFTs, and stablecoins often lie outside the SEC’s authority. This clarification may help market participants better understand their regulatory standing.

Collaboration With CFTC and Interim Framework

The SEC recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. This agreement aims to coordinate oversight of digital assets. The SEC will focus on securities, while the CFTC may oversee digital commodities.

Atkins said the current interpretation serves as a temporary framework. It is designed to support the market while lawmakers work on formal legislation. He emphasized that the agency will adapt once Congress sets clear rules.

This approach marks a move away from enforcement-led regulation. It also provides a reference point for businesses in the crypto sector. Firms can now plan with more certainty during this period.

Congressional Action Remains Key to Final Rules

The CLARITY Act passed the House of Representatives in July 2025. However, it still awaits action in the Senate Banking Committee. This legislation is expected to define the long-term market structure.

Atkins stated that the SEC will defer to Congress once a law is passed. Until then, the agency’s interpretation will remain in place. He described it as a bridge to a more complete regulatory system.

He also noted that regulatory clarity has been a long-standing request from the crypto industry. The SEC’s current direction aims to address that demand with formal guidance.