New SEC Chair Signals Softer Stance as Hester Peirce Hints at Shift in Priorities

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission may be on the verge of a major policy shift, particularly when it comes to crypto. Hester Peirce, a long-time advocate for digital assets and current head of the SEC’s crypto task force, offered fresh insight this week into what the industry can expect under the newly appointed SEC Chairman, Paul Atkins . Speaking ahead of Atkins’ official confirmation, Peirce expressed optimism about his return, describing him as someone deeply committed to economic growth and thoughtful market regulation. The two previously worked together at the SEC from 2004 to 2008, a period Peirce recalls with respect. “I would love the chance to work with [Atkins] on trying to reorient the agency so that it does take into consideration all aspects of our mission,” she said in an interview . Atkins was sworn in on April 21 after being nominated by President Trump to replace outgoing chair Gary Gensler — a move seen by many as a deliberate step toward easing regulatory friction in the crypto space. During his Senate confirmation hearing, Atkins faced scrutiny over his ties to the crypto industry, but Peirce was quick to defend his integrity, saying, “I have very high regard for his ethics.” Post-Gensler Era Brings New Possibilities Atkins enters the SEC during a transitional moment. With Gensler and Jaime Lizárraga stepping down earlier this year, the agency’s leadership has been reduced to four members, potentially just three by 2026 if Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw exits as expected. That would leave the SEC heavily tilted toward Republican-appointed members — a dynamic that could reshape its regulatory approach. Acting Chair Mark Uyeda, who has temporarily filled Gensler’s shoes since January, is expected to step back into his standard commissioner role soon, giving Atkins full authority over the agency’s direction. The transition in leadership coincides with growing calls from the crypto community for a shift away from the previous administration’s controversial “regulation by enforcement” strategy. A Turning Point for Crypto Regulation in the U.S.? Many in the digital asset space see Atkins’ appointment as a potential inflection point. Under Gensler, the SEC was known for its aggressive stance, launching lawsuits against major crypto firms including Coinbase, Binance, and Ripple. However, the tide appears to be turning — several of those cases have since been dropped or stalled. Peirce, often dubbed “Crypto Mom” for her supportive stance, sees this new chapter as a chance to finally provide clear, consistent rules. “We’re all trying to get to a good place,” she said, “which is putting some regulatory clarity around crypto.” The post New SEC Chair Signals Softer Stance as Hester Peirce Hints at Shift in Priorities appeared first on TheCoinrise.com .

Source: The Coin Rise