Gensler highlights the need for further progress on crypto regulation by SEC

Gary Gensler, the outgoing chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), emphasized the need for further regulatory oversight of altcoins and intermediaries within the digital assets market.

Speaking Wednesday in a Bloomberg Television interview , Gensler highlighted the ongoing lack of adequate disclosures and information digital asset firms provide to everyday investors.

Gensler reflects on SEC tenure and shifts in crypto enforcement leadership 

Reflecting on his tenure, Gensler expressed pride in the SEC’s enforcement efforts in the crypto space, highlighting their steady consistency over the years. The former Goldman Sachs executive has been known for his aggressive enforcement actions against cryptocurrency entities. These efforts have targeted a wide spectrum, from fraudulent operators to major firms like Coinbase Global Inc. and proprietary trading firm DRW Holdings.

Gensler announced in November his decision to step down as SEC chair on January 20, coinciding with President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Trump has nominated Paul Atkins, a former SEC commissioner, to head the agency. Atkins anticipates adopting a more lenient approach toward the digital asset industry and reducing enforcement measures.

In the interview, Gensler noted that his predecessor, Jay Clayton, initiated approximately 80 crypto-related enforcement cases during his leadership under the first Trump administration. Under Gensler, that number grew to about 100 cases. 

However, while Clayton’s focus centered on token issuers whose offerings were deemed securities, Gensler has prioritized enforcement against market intermediaries that bypass securities laws concerning registration and disclosure requirements. Under Gensler’s leadership, the SEC has experienced both victories and setbacks in court.

Gensler has expressed skepticism toward the crypto industry

Biden-appointed Gensler has vocally expressed skepticism toward crypto regulation. He came out forcefully against the FIT21 bill after it was passed in the House. The relationship between the crypto industry and Gensler has been contentious. 

The industry mostly views Gensler with skepticism and frustration. Many believe his strict enforcement approach and classifying most crypto assets as securities have stifled innovation and created legal uncertainty​. 

According to Gensler, crypto accounts for less than 1% of U.S. financial markets, yet it’s riddled with “scams.”

I’ve never seen a field that is so wrapped up in sentiment and not so much about fundamentals. Of these 10,000 to 15,000 projects, many of them will not survive. They’re like venture capital investments. They’re not going to survive.

~Gary Gensler

Gensler expressed pride in their accomplishments but insisted there’s still work to be done.

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