US SEC to Shift Crypto Strategy Under Trump

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is anticipated to reconsider its cryptocurrency enforcement strategy under the incoming Trump administration, focusing on freezing or withdrawing cases that do not involve fraud. President-elect Donald Trump has selected Paul Atkins as the new SEC Chair, who will work with Republican Commissioners Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda. This policy shift marks a departure from outgoing Chair Gary Gensler’s approach, which included over 80 enforcement actions against firms like Coinbase and Ripple Labs. The change aims to provide clearer guidelines for when cryptocurrencies qualify as securities and reduce compliance burdens. Critics are concerned that withdrawing cases may weaken investor protections, while proponents see it as fostering a more innovation-friendly regulatory environment. Additionally, South Korea is advancing its cryptocurrency regulatory framework by 2025, focusing on enhancing user protection and aligning with international standards.