In a recent interview, SEC Chair Gary Gensler deflected questions on whether former President Donald Trump could dismiss him if re-elected. During a rally in July, Trump had stated that he intends to fire Gensler on his first day back in office.
However, Gensler’s term with the SEC is set to expire, and even if the next administration wanted him to stay, it would require a formal nomination and vote to confirm his continued position.
Alongside these inquiries, Gensler addressed the SEC’s current regulatory priorities, particularly regarding artificial intelligence in financial systems. AI, he stated, has reshaped finance as significantly as the internet or the industrial revolution.
Brokerage apps and investment firms are increasingly using AI, often creating potential conflicts where AI-driven advice may serve corporate interests over clients’ best interests.
Gensler emphasized that AI needs oversight to ensure the public interest is safeguarded and hinted that regulatory adjustments may be necessary to prevent AI’s potential risks in finance.
He humorously referenced the film Her, where a virtual assistant (voiced by Scarlett Johansson) goes offline, causing distress for its users. Gensler warned of similar disruptions in finance if AI systems fail, as most firms depend on just a few base AI models, amplifying potential financial crises. He suggested global regulators should unite to address this concentration risk and ensure robust protections.
On crypto regulation, Gensler maintained that blockchain and securities laws are compatible. He underscored that if crypto projects are to be trusted, they must meet disclosure requirements to protect investors.
Despite many investors suffering losses in crypto markets, the SEC, he insisted, would uphold transparency and integrity. However, he acknowledged challenges, especially with recent lawsuits from crypto advocates in business-friendly courts, hinting that the SEC adapts its policies based on legal rulings.
