Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has expressed support for Paul Atkins’ appointment as the new Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Atkins, a former SEC Commissioner known for his pro-crypto perspective, was officially selected on Wednesday.
Garlinghouse described Atkins as an “outstanding choice” who could bring “common sense” back to the SEC, echoing widespread optimism within the cryptocurrency industry for fairer and more transparent regulation.
Anticipated Regulatory Shifts
The crypto sector is hopeful that Atkins’ leadership will usher in a new era of balanced oversight. Jake Chervinsky, chief legal officer at Variant, labeled this transition a “regulatory singularity,” predicting that Atkins’ tenure could transform crypto regulation into a more collaborative and clear framework.
This optimism stems from a stark contrast to outgoing SEC Chair Gary Gensler, whose rigid approach and adversarial stance on cryptocurrencies have been criticized for stifling innovation and creating unnecessary legal battles.
Industry figures such as SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, nicknamed “Crypto Mom,” and Cathie Wood of Ark Invest have welcomed Atkins’ return. Peirce highlighted Atkins’ experience and pragmatic approach as critical assets for leading the agency toward better regulatory practices. Similarly, Wood emphasized the potential for Atkins to ease the regulatory burden on crypto innovators.
A New Chapter for Crypto Regulation
With Atkins set to assume leadership after Gensler’s departure on January 20, the crypto industry is preparing for a shift in its regulatory environment. Many hope Atkins will provide greater clarity, foster innovation, and prioritize investor protection without compromising the growth potential of digital assets.
Ultimately, Atkins’ appointment marks a turning point for the SEC and the crypto space. His pro-crypto stance and industry support suggest a promising shift toward balanced regulation. If executed effectively, this leadership change could drive innovation and restore confidence in the regulatory landscape.
Victor Swaezy
Victor Swaezy is a crypto-journalist with more than 3 years of experience in covering blockchain technology and digital currencies news. Known for his comprehensive reporting, Victor has contributed to leading industry publications, providing market participants with the required knowledge to make informed decisions. When he is not working, he loves to watch movies and have a good time.