- CFTC launches Crypto Sprint to implement White House digital asset regulatory recommendations.
- SEC begins Crypto on the Road tour to gather feedback from small startups across 10 cities.
- CFTC seeks Congressional authority to oversee spot markets for non-security digital assets.
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has launched a regulatory initiative called the “Crypto Sprint” to begin implementing the recommendations from the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets.
Acting Chairman Caroline Pham confirmed that the initiative is intended to begin implementation of agency-specific actions outlined in the executive order on digital assets.
The President’s Working Group made 18 recommendations related to digital asset markets. Two directly instruct the CFTC to issue guidance on the classification of digital assets as commodities and review existing rules to accommodate blockchain-based derivatives. Sixteen other recommendations require collaboration with the SEC, Treasury, and other federal agencies.
Caroline Pham also confirmed that the effort aligns with a broader regulatory framework referred to as “Project Crypto,” undertaken in coordination with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Pham stated that the two agencies will align efforts to develop a joint rulemaking process and explore a regulatory sandbox for digital asset innovation.
Acting Chairman Pham said. “We will work closely with SEC Chairman Paul Atkins and Commissioner Hester Peirce to achieve Project Crypto.”
Also Read | SEC Launches ‘Project Crypto’ to Modernize U.S. Crypto Regulation
Focus on Regulatory Clarity and Market Innovation
Since the beginning of the year, the CFTC has made several regulatory moves. These include hosting its first Crypto CEO Forum, withdrawing outdated staff advisories, and releasing updated guidance documents to clarify expectations for entities engaging in digital asset activities.
The agency also ended a public consultation process on perpetual derivatives and 24/7 trading. Perpetual derivatives began trading on registered contract markets in April. 24/7 trading has been live since May on CFTC-registered platforms.
Pham said, “Providing regulatory clarity now and fostering innovation in digital asset markets will deliver on the Administration’s promise to usher in a Golden Age of Crypto.”
In addition, the SEC has expanded its involvement through a nationwide engagement initiative. As part of the Project, the agency has launched a “Crypto on the Road” tour to collect input from small startups. Roundtable discussions will take place in ten U.S. cities from August 4 to December 5.
CFTC Seeks Legislative Clarity on Oversight Role
The CFTC reiterated the need for Congressional clarity on its authority over spot markets involving non-security digital assets.
The White House report suggested that the CFTC be assigned direct oversight of these markets. A Senate Agriculture Committee draft paper on the commission’s future role in the digital assets sector is expected later this year.
Also Read | Crypto Revolution: Trump’s Executive Order to Open 401(k) Plans to Digital Assets
