Paul Atkins, the Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, articulated plans for advancing cryptocurrency regulations without the need for Congressional legislation, expressing optimism for the industry by 2026.

In a recent interview with CNBC, Atkins confirmed that the SEC would be introducing an innovation exemption for crypto projects within the next month. He emphasized that despite the challenges posed by the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, the SEC is dedicated to enhancing the regulatory framework aimed at the crypto sector.

“We have enough authority to drive forward,” Atkins stated. “I’m looking forward to having an innovation exemption that we’ve been discussing. We should be able to roll that out shortly.”

(Image: SEC Chair Paul Atkins speaking on Tuesday before the NYSE opening bell. Source: Vimeo)

Atkins has been active in reducing the SEC’s enforcement actions against cryptocurrency firms, notably by issuing no-action letters aimed at decentralized networks.

His directives resonate with the broader policies established by the Trump administration, which have addressed various aspects of cryptocurrency regulation.

U.S. Regulation Development

Current lawmakers are pushing forward with a digital asset market structure bill, which delineates the regulatory scope of the SEC and other agencies over cryptocurrencies. Tim Scott, Chair of the Senate Banking Committee, mentioned that the bill is expected to be prepared for markup by December.

Related: Republicans urge action on market structure bill over debanking claims