SEC Launches President’s Digital Assets Group to Modernize Crypto Regulation

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is preparing to launch the President’s Digital Assets Group, a development announced by SEC Chair Paul Atkins. Speaking at the Wyoming Blockchain Symposium in Jackson Hole, Atkins highlighted the initiative as part of a broader effort to modernize and clarify digital asset regulation. This move signals a new chapter in the SEC’s approach to cryptocurrency and tokenized assets [1].

Atkins emphasized that the SEC’s evolving stance is reflected in its updated interpretation of what constitutes a security under its jurisdiction. He suggested that only a small fraction of crypto tokens should be classified as securities, a departure from the previous position under former SEC Chair Gary Gensler. Atkins noted that the agency would focus on how tokens are sold and the broader context surrounding them, rather than automatically treating them as securities. This marks a significant policy shift that could impact how digital asset projects engage with U.S. markets [2].

The President’s Digital Assets Group announcement follows closely on the heels of the President’s Working Group report on digital assets, a key document that outlines strategic priorities for the administration. Atkins highlighted the importance of this report in shaping the SEC’s regulatory approach and underscored the need for “clear rules of the road” as Congress moves to establish a formal market structure for digital assets. The House of Representatives has already passed the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act, and the Senate is expected to follow suit as it returns from recess in early September [3].

Atkins also reiterated his commitment to regulatory clarity as a top priority for the SEC. He has previously introduced initiatives like “Project Crypto,” which aims to provide a structured framework for custody, trading, and token issuance. The project is part of a broader effort to ensure that the U.S. remains competitive in the rapidly evolving digital asset landscape. The Senate Banking Committee, led by Chair Tim Scott, has indicated bipartisan support for market structure legislation, with potential backing from as many as 18 Democrats [4].

The shift in tone and approach under Atkins contrasts sharply with the previous administration’s enforcement-heavy stance. While Gensler’s tenure was marked by aggressive actions against major crypto projects, the current leadership appears to be pursuing a more collaborative and rules-based strategy. This change could influence the direction of both regulatory enforcement and market innovation in the U.S. [5].

The SEC’s evolving position reflects broader political and legislative momentum in favor of a more defined and structured digital asset framework. As the agency moves forward with its new initiatives, the industry will likely watch closely to see how these developments translate into actionable policy and enforcement. The introduction of the President’s Digital Assets Group marks a pivotal moment in the SEC’s regulatory journey and could set the stage for a more predictable environment for market participants [6].

Source:

[1] [SEC Chair Paul Atkins says they will launch the President's Digital Assets Group soon](https://www.cryptopolitan.com/atkins-announces-digital-assets-group-launch/)

[2] [SEC Chair: 'There Are Very Few Tokens That Are Securities'](https://cointelegraph.com/news/tokens-securities-sec-chair-paul-atkins-wyoming)

[3] [US president's working group issues report outlining key ...](https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=3ed0b155-232c-4176-9105-80fab1e802fd)

[4] [Most Crypto Tokens Should Not Be Treated as Securities ...](https://www.law.com/nationallawjournal/2025/08/19/most-crypto-tokens-should-not-be-treated-as-securities-sec-chair-says/)

[5] [SEC Moves Forward With Crypto Regulation Following ...](https://www.mitrade.com/au/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1051991-20250820)

[6] [US SEC unveils sweeping plans to regulate crypto](https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/us-sec-unveils-sweeping-plans-to-regulate-crypto-here-s-what-you-need-to-know/ar-AA1JFKW0)