CFTC Launches Crypto Sprint to Boost U.S. Digital Asset Leadership

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has launched a fast-paced initiative known as the “Crypto Sprint” to accelerate the implementation of digital asset regulatory reforms under the Trump administration [1]. The program, announced by Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham, aims to advance the U.S. as a global leader in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology [2]. The initiative is aligned with the recommendations from the Trump Working Group on Digital Asset Markets, which recently published a 168-page report outlining a comprehensive roadmap for digital asset regulation [3].

The CFTC is collaborating closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through a joint project dubbed “Project Crypto,” with the goal of providing clarity to the evolving digital asset landscape while fostering innovation [4]. Acting Chairman Pham emphasized that the CFTC will work with SEC Chairman Paul Atkins and Commissioner Hester Peirce to ensure a coordinated regulatory approach [5]. The report also urged the CFTC and SEC to build a shared rulebook, consider launching a regulatory sandbox, and explore how platforms could offer multiple crypto services through one interface [6].

The White House report included 18 specific recommendations for the CFTC, including publishing guidance on how digital assets fit under commodity definitions, adjusting registration requirements to accommodate decentralized finance, and reviewing existing rules to account for blockchain-based derivatives [7]. The report also called for clearer rules around self-custody, stablecoins, taxes, and how banks can engage with crypto [8]. Some of the bigger structural changes will require Congress to draw clearer lines between the agencies’ roles [9].

Since the beginning of the year, the CFTC has taken steps to modernize its approach, including hosting the inaugural Crypto CEO Forum, removing outdated guidance, and issuing updated regulatory clarity for firms and investors [10]. The agency is also exploring a pilot program for digital asset markets and engaging in discussions with the private sector on tokenization initiatives [11]. Additionally, the CFTC has concluded a public comment period focused on around-the-clock crypto trading and perpetual derivatives [12].

The CFTC’s “Crypto Sprint” doesn’t specify which parts of the report it will tackle first. However, the agency is already clearing roadblocks, such as withdrawing outdated staff advisories on crypto and meeting with industry leaders [13]. The CFTC is also considering 24/7 derivatives trading and the approval of perpetual contracts [14]. These steps signal the growing integration of crypto into traditional financial markets [15]. Perpetual derivatives are already being traded on regulated exchanges, and the introduction of non-stop trading further underscores the sector’s maturation [16].

The combined efforts of the CFTC, SEC, and legislative initiatives such as the Genius Act and the Clarity Act suggest a clear intent to create a stable and competitive environment for digital assets in the U.S. [17]. The regulatory clarity and innovation incentives being introduced could help attract global talent and investment, positioning the U.S. as a central hub for blockchain and crypto development [18]. With the “Crypto Sprint” in motion, the industry may soon experience greater direction and opportunities, driven by a collaborative and forward-looking regulatory framework [19].

Source:

[1] https://www.bitget.com/news/detail/12560604894317

[2] https://www.bitget.com/news/detail/12560604894362

[3] https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/6890a79bbcd39c77ce70bbf8/

[4] https://m.mondovisione.com/news/acting-cftc-chairman-pham-announces-cftc-crypto-sprint-202582/

[5] https://www.cointribune.com/en/cftc-responds-to-trumps-crypto-push-with-ambitious-legal-reform-plan/

[6] https://www.livebitcoinnews.com/cftc-launches-crypto-sprint-with-full-support-for-sec-project/