The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to hold its first roundtable discussion through its newly established Crypto Task Force, aiming to clarify the regulatory status of crypto assets. This event marks a significant step toward addressing longstanding ambiguities in cryptocurrency regulation.
Scheduled for March 21, 2025, the roundtable, titled “How We Got Here and How We Get Out – Defining Security Status,” will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the SEC’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. The session is open to the public, with limited in-person attendance and a live stream available on the SEC’s website. The event will feature primary discussions broadcast online and smaller breakout sessions for in-depth conversations, which will not be streamed.
The primary goal of this roundtable is to engage with industry experts, stakeholders, and the public to develop a workable regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. By focusing on defining which crypto assets qualify as securities, the SEC aims to provide clearer guidelines for compliance and foster innovation within the industry.
Leadership and Task Force Composition
Commissioner Hester Peirce, known for her advocacy for balanced crypto regulation, leads the Crypto Task Force. She expressed optimism about the initiative, stating,
“I am looking forward to drawing on the expertise of the public in developing a workable regulatory framework for crypto. The roundtables are an important part of our engagement with the public.”
The task force comprises a diverse group of professionals, including former industry insiders and legal experts. Notably, Michael Selig, a former crypto-focused attorney, serves as Chief Counsel. Other members include Landon Zinda, former policy director at Coin Center, and Veronica Reynolds, previously an attorney specializing in NFTs and metaverse-related legal issues. This blend of experience is expected to contribute to more informed and practical regulatory approaches.
“Launched on January 21 by Acting SEC Chairman Mark T. Uyeda, the Crypto Task Force was established to help the Commission draw clear regulatory lines, provide realistic paths to registration, craft sensible disclosure frameworks, and deploy enforcement resources judiciously,” The Commisions website states
Industry Response and Expectations
The crypto industry has responded positively to the formation of the Crypto Task Force and its forthcoming roundtable. Industry leaders view this as a shift from the SEC’s previous enforcement-centric approach to a more collaborative and clear regulatory process. Kristin Smith, chief executive of crypto-advocacy group Blockchain Association, highlighted the need for the SEC to issue more interpretive guidance and encourage no-action letters, facilitating compliance without stifling innovation.
“There are a lot of tools that the SEC has and just hasn’t been exercised in the past; this is a process that will start this conversation,” she said .
This initiative aligns with broader governmental efforts to integrate cryptocurrencies into the financial system. In January, President Donald Trump established the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets, aiming to create a supportive environment for the crypto industry. The group’s objectives include recommending a federal framework for digital asset trading and exploring the creation of a national digital asset stockpile.
Quick Facts
- Event Date: March 21, 2025
- Time: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Location: SEC Headquarters, Washington, D.C.
- Roundtable Title: “How We Got Here and How We Get Out – Defining Security Status”
- Leadership: Commissioner Hester Peirce leads the Crypto Task Force.
- Participation: Open to the public with limited in-person attendance; live stream available on SEC.gov.sec.gov
