U.S. SEC Removes Cryptocurrency Oversight from 2026 Examination Priorities, Accelerating Regulatory Relaxation

Reflecting a Shift in Regulatory Policy

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced on the 18th its annual statement on examination priorities for the fiscal year 2026 (October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026). The report notably omits the previously included independent section dedicated to services related to cryptocurrencies and the volatility of digital assets, which had been a focal point in recent years.

However, the report emphasizes new requirements for investment advisors, broker-dealers, and securities exchanges in inspections, focusing on fiduciary duties, standards of conduct, asset management, and client data privacy.

Paul Atkins, SEC Commissioner...