US SEC Crypto Enforcement Actions Drop 60% Under Atkins

2026-01-23 14:14:10

Source: CryptoNewsNet Original Title: US SEC Crypto Enforcement Actions Drop 60% Under Atkins Original Link:

Overview of Enforcement Action Decline

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has significantly reduced its crypto-associated enforcement actions in the past year. According to a Cornerstone Research report, the SEC led approximately 13 crypto-associated actions last year, down from 33 in 2024—representing a 60% decline and marking the lowest level since 2017.

Among these actions, 5 were carried out under Chair Atkins’ administration, with 8 cases including allegations of fraud. Additionally, 29 crypto-associated actions were resolved last year, of which 7 were resolved under Atkins’ tenure.

Shift in Regulatory Strategy

The SEC has notably shifted its enforcement focus away from broad registration theories toward cases centered on clear investor harm that are more straightforward to argue in court. This transformation reflects a change in priorities since the Trump administration appointed Paul Atkins as SEC chairman.

The overall monetary penalties for digital asset market participants totaled $142 million in 2025, representing less than 3% of the penalties imposed in the previous year.

Analysis from Cornerstone Research

Robert Letson, principal at Cornerstone Research, stated that enforcement actions taken under Chair Atkins demonstrate a clear transformation in the SEC’s approach to digital-asset oversight, aligning with priorities defined in early 2025. He noted that digital asset regulation continues to evolve and will warrant close monitoring throughout the year.

Future Implications

The SEC’s office was transferred to Atkins in April 2025, following a brief period of acting leadership. Legal observers have noted a broader shift in tone within the agency since this leadership change.

Should the SEC continue prioritizing cases defined as fraud, the next phase of US crypto oversight may place less emphasis on surprise lawsuits and more on rulemaking and regulatory guidance.

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