The SEC’s Crypto Task Force, Explained

Aug 20, 2025

Hester M. Peirce, Commissioner at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and leader of the SEC's Crypto Task Force, sheds light on the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency regulation. She discusses the SEC's shift towards a collaborative approach with industry stakeholders and lawmakers. Peirce emphasizes the need for regulatory clarity to protect investors while fostering innovation. She also touches on the significance of cross-border cooperation to enhance enforcement and the transformative potential of tokenized finance in traditional banking.

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INSIGHT

Regulatory Mindset Shift

The SEC is shifting from enforcement-first to providing clarity so markets can experiment within the law.
Hester Peirce says clear rules will enable organic market fit without regulators picking winners.

ADVICE

Engage Regulators Early

Come talk to the SEC early if your crypto project needs guidance or exemptive relief.
The Task Force aims to release early guidance and follow with rulemaking to provide stability.

INSIGHT

Clarity Deters Scams

Clear regulation redirects talent and capital from scams to legitimate projects.
Peirce argues better rules make it harder for in-and-out scammers to succeed.

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Hester M. Peirce, Commissioner at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, discusses the SEC’s new approach to regulation under the Crypto Task Force. She details the commission's efforts to foster a healthy, regulated crypto market and the importance of cross-border cooperation in enforcement.

Key Takeaways:

How the SEC is providing input for lawmakers on new regulations, and taking feedback from businesses in the industry
Shifting from an enforcement-focused mindset to providing regulatory clarity
The importance of regulatory frameworks that protect investors while still allowing innovation
Ways to collaborate with the U.S. Congress on legislation

Guest Bio: Hester M. Peirce was appointed by President Donald J. Trump to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and was sworn in on January 11, 2018.

Earlier this year, Commissioner Peirce was designated as the leader of the SEC's Crypto Task Force. Prior to joining the SEC, Commissioner Peirce conducted research on the regulation of financial markets, and was a Senior Counsel on the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Commissioner Peirce earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from Case Western Reserve University, and her JD from Yale Law School.

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