The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will host four roundtables soon, focusing on crucial cryptocurrency topics like decentralized finance (DeFi) and asset tokenization. These sessions aim to inspire constructive discussion between regulators, lawyers, and crypto industry leaders.
A Spring Sprint for Crypto Clarity
The first session took place on March 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C., titled 'How We Got Here and How We Get Out—Defining Security Status.' SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce described it as a 'Spring Sprint Toward Crypto Clarity,' as the commission works toward clarifying digital assets' classification under existing securities laws.
Discussion on Token Classification
In the opening session, Miles Jennings, general counsel for a16z crypto, criticized the SEC’s historical approach to digital assets, claiming it failed to protect investors or enhance capital formation properly. He called for a technology-neutral approach, highlighting the need to distinguish between platforms like Ethereum and traditional equities.
Topics and Schedule for Future Roundtables
The other SEC roundtables are scheduled for April to June 2025. Topics include tailoring regulations for crypto markets, crypto custody, asset tokenization, and decentralized finance. These events will have both in-person presence in Washington and live streaming.
These SEC efforts represent a response to mounting pressure for regulatory clarity as digital assets continue to grow quickly. Stakeholder participation may influence long-term policy direction regarding DeFi and other key aspects of the crypto industry.
