The SEC Chairman introduces a regulatory framework for crypto assets, clearly distinguishing between digital commodities and digital securities

The chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Paul Atkins, announced the "Regulation Crypto Assets" regulatory framework at the "SEC Speaks" conference, marking a shift from "enforcement-driven regulation" to a clear rule system.

The framework classifies digital assets, identifying Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana as "digital commodities," primarily regulated by the CFTC; the SEC focuses on "digital securities," which are tokens with clear rights to profits or asset claims. Additionally, the framework introduces a "token safe harbor" mechanism, allowing projects to develop and raise funds under simplified disclosure requirements for up to three years. The SEC also signed a memorandum of understanding with the CFTC to reduce overlapping regulation and clarify responsibilities.