In recent years, the SEC’s aggressive litigation against cryptocurrencies has seen a significant shift with a change in leadership. While Trump’s election may not have resulted in massive gains across the cryptocurrency market, there are promising developments that nurture long-term optimism. The once-dreaded Jorge Tenreiro is expected to leave cryptocurrency companies alone.
Jorge Tenreiro’s New Position
The former SEC official, known for his anti-cryptocurrency stance, is determined to change his image. Jorge Tenreiro has been assigned to a different department, overseeing a handful of lawsuits against cryptocurrency exchanges and platforms. Decisions regarding the reassignment of the attorney involved in drafting accounting guidelines that hinder banks from entering the cryptocurrency market indicate a shift in the SEC’s direction.
On January 23, Trump signed a directive requesting a new regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, appointing crypto-friendly names to key positions. The changes involving Tenreiro and others can also be seen as an effort to enhance the influence of Republicans within the agency.
Key figures from Gensler’s “enforcement-led regulation” process resigned before January 20, 2025. Remaining personnel are being reassigned to different departments, distancing themselves from cryptocurrency-related matters.
SEC’s Supportive Shift for Cryptocurrencies
The SEC is now poised to either resolve cryptocurrency cases in favor of companies or seek complete dismissal of lawsuits. Cryptocurrency firms have long complained that the SEC focused on adapting century-old rules instead of providing adequate guidance. The current SEC leadership has made supportive statements regarding cryptocurrency investors.
Hester Peirce recently remarked:
“The commission has refused to utilize its regulatory tools and has continually pressed enforcement brakes on a convoluted path with an unrecognizable endpoint.”
Supportive regulations for cryptocurrencies are expected to be implemented soon. This could pave the way for significant developments ranging from altcoin ETFs to companies adopting the U.S. as their primary base.
