Paul Atkins has officially begun his role as the 34th Chair of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), promising to bring clarity to crypto regulations. A known supporter of digital assets, Atkins’ return to the SEC is generating excitement in the crypto community.
Atkins, who previously served as an SEC Commissioner from 2002 to 2008, was nominated by President Trump in January. After a brief delay due to final paperwork and the Easter holidays, he was sworn in following Senate confirmation.
“I am honored by the trust and confidence President Trump and the Senate have placed in me to lead the SEC,” Atkins said in the official press release . With over 20 years of experience in capital markets, he aims to ensure fair and efficient markets with strong investor protection.
Crypto supporters are hopeful that Atkins will quickly push forward long-awaited digital asset rules. He’s expected to attend the SEC’s third crypto policy roundtable, where key topics like crypto custody will be discussed with firms like Kraken and Fidelity.
Atkins steps in as the SEC’s lawsuit against Ripple nears its final phase, with XRP advocates urging faster resolution. Meanwhile, more than 17 XRP spot ETF applications await review—now with a crypto-friendly chair in charge.
Interestingly, Atkins holds nearly $6 million in digital assets, underlining his strong connection to the industry. Coinbase has even announced support for Linked Reserve Rights linked to him.
With Paul Atkins at the helm, the SEC may finally be on track to deliver clear, modern rules for the crypto market.
