SEC Chair: "Providing a clear regulatory framework for digital assets" is one of SEC's priorities this year

SEC crypto enforcement under attack by Congress, is U.S. digital asset regulation at a critical crossroads?

February 12 News, the enforcement approach of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding cryptocurrencies is facing strong resistance from Congress. As Democratic members of the House openly criticize the regulatory strategy led by Chairman Paul Atkins, the tense atmosphere around digital asset regulation in Washington continues to escalate. Lawmakers believe that a recent series of enforcement actions have become noticeably more lenient, undermining the regulatory deterrence needed during high-risk phases of the market and shaking investor confidence. Several Democratic lawmakers pointed out that this shift appears to be selective and involves politically sensitive backgrounds, especially in cases related to Trump. They warn that any impression of "favoritism" could damage the SEC's authority as an independent regulator and weaken its credibility in the capital markets. For them, the issue is no longer just about compliance details but is fundamentally about investor protection and trust in the financial system.

Thailand approves cryptocurrency derivatives! Stock exchanges plan to launch Bitcoin futures and ETFs

The Thai government approved a proposal from the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday to allow digital assets to be used as underlying assets for derivative products and capital markets. This move aligns with the Stock Exchange of Thailand's plan to launch Bitcoin futures and ETFs in 2026. However, the central bank still prohibits cryptocurrency payments, and consumer stablecoin usage is restricted. Thailand's largest exchange, Bitkub, has a daily trading volume of $65 million, and in January, it launched a campaign to combat "gray funds."

U.S. banking lobbying group warns "too rapid approval": OCC crypto license approval faces significant resistance

On February 12, the largest banking lobbying organization in the United States—the American Bankers Association (ABA)—submitted a comment letter to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), urging it to slow down the approval process for cryptocurrency-related licenses until Congress completes rules for stablecoins and digital assets. The association warned that prematurely approving new digital asset institutions into the national banking system could pose potential risks to financial stability and resolution mechanisms. Currently, institutions including Circle, Ripple, BitGo, Paxos, and Laser Digital (a subsidiary of Nomura Securities) are applying for or already hold OCC conditional trust bank licenses. World Liberty Financial, associated with Trump, also submitted an application covering its $1 stablecoin. The ABA believes that, in the absence of the implementation of the GENIUS Act and its supporting regulations, the OCC should not follow the traditional approval pace.

Thailand approves cryptocurrency derivatives: SEC legislative changes pave the way for a "compliant leverage era"

Thailand takes a key step forward in cryptocurrency regulation. The Thai cabinet has approved significant amendments to the Derivatives Act, officially including cryptocurrencies within the scope of regulated derivative assets. This means that crypto assets will be recognized as compliant financial instruments within Thailand's capital market framework, suitable for hedging, pricing, and structured transactions. Pornanong Budsaratragoon, Secretary-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Thailand, stated that this move will broaden investment options, strengthen risk management mechanisms, and promote the market toward greater transparency and diversification. The regulators also indicated that subsequent rules will be drafted to adjust derivative licensing systems, allowing digital asset-related institutions to offer contract products linked to cryptocurrencies, while simultaneously reviewing standards for trading, clearing, and risk control.

The Thai cabinet approves amendments to the "Derivatives Act" to allow cryptocurrencies as underlying assets

Odaily Planet Daily reports that the Thai cabinet has approved amendments to the Derivatives Act, allowing cryptocurrencies to be used as underlying assets for regulated derivative products. The Thai SEC will revise relevant licensing rules, establish standards for derivative contracts, and collaborate with the Thailand Futures Exchange to ensure that the risk characteristics of contracts align with digital asset features. This reform aims to promote market growth, diversify risk management, and incorporate digital asset activities into a clearer legal framework. (Decrypt)

The EU plans to fully block Russian crypto transactions, and related banks have also been included.

The European Union plans to implement the 20th round of sanctions against Russia, including a comprehensive ban on cryptocurrency transactions with Russia, aimed at blocking Russian channels to bypass sanctions. Additionally, the sanctions will be expanded to include more Russian banks and certain third-country banks, expected to be approved on February 24. Russia, on the other hand, is promoting digital asset legislation to respond to these regulatory measures.