SEC Lists Proposed Crypto Rule Changes on Regulatory Agenda Amid CLARITY Act Wait
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has listed three proposed crypto rule changes in its regulatory agenda for 2026, according to the Agency Rule List. These changes come as the crypto industry awaits the CLARITY Act, which is expected to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework.
Under the proposed rules for crypto assets, the SEC is considering exemptions and safe harbors related to their offer and sale. This could clarify the regulatory framework and provide market certainty. Notably, the Commission has already proposed an innovation exemption for tokenized U.S. stocks, which likely falls under this category.
The second proposal targets crypto broker-dealers. The Division is considering recommending amendments to Rules 15c3-1 and 15c3-3, along with other financial responsibility rules, to address their application to crypto assets. This follows previous conditions allowing some DeFi platforms to operate without broker-dealer registration.
Third, the SEC proposes market structure amendments to the Exchange Act Rules, specifically addressing the trading of crypto assets on alternative trading systems (ATS) and national securities exchanges. SEC Chair Paul Atkins emphasized the goal of embracing innovation, creating clear rules for capital raising within the crypto ecosystem, and providing clarity on tokenized securities to support President Trump’s aim to make the U.S. the world’s crypto capital.
These proposals come amid the ongoing wait for the CLARITY Act, a bill intended to establish a comprehensive crypto regulatory framework in the U.S.