Crypto regulations are approaching: US authorities confirm the challenging path toward approval

Highlights

• The latest timing indications suggest a delay of approval to the first quarter of 2026
• Paul Atkins, head of the SEC, confirms the joint determination of the SEC and CFTC to complete the legislation
• Analysis of the strategic importance of this regulation for the digital ecosystem

A challenging plan but increasingly close to the goal

The regulatory path for cryptocurrencies in the United States proves to be more complex than expected; however, recent developments indicate significant progress toward a milestone that has so far been elusive. Legislation on the structure of the cryptocurrency market represents one of the most delicate files ever addressed by the U.S. Congress. Originally scheduled for completion in 2024, then postponed to the end of 2025, the regulation will likely face further postponement in the early months of 2026.

President Donald Trump had expressed the intention to sign the measure before the end of last year, but the legislative process required a longer timeline. The complexity of this challenging regulatory plan reflects the multiple dimensions of digital asset regulation, from investor protection to systemic risk oversight.

SEC and CFTC: two authorities working together toward the same goal

Paul Atkins, the current chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, recently announced that the two main U.S. financial oversight authorities – the SEC itself and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission – are working in perfect synergy to facilitate the approval of the legislation.

Unlike his predecessor, known for a restrictive attitude toward digital assets, Atkins represents a more balanced position that favors innovation. In recent statements, he emphasized that both the SEC and the CFTC are coordinating efforts not only on the main legislation but also on the “Clarity Act,” a complementary regulation intended to further clarify regulatory responsibilities.

This shift highlights a profound transformation in the U.S. regulatory landscape. 2025 indeed marks a turning point, as the federal government is laying the legal foundations to integrate digital assets into the traditional financial architecture.

What prospects does transparent regulation open?

Adopting a clear regulatory framework would have significant consequences for the entire sector. First, it would eliminate obstacles currently preventing institutional capital from flowing into cryptocurrencies. The lack of precise guidelines has been a major barrier, making it difficult for asset managers and investment entities to navigate the market.

A well-structured regulation not only sets defined boundaries but also provides stronger investor protection mechanisms. Considering that the cryptocurrency sector has experienced significant episodes of fraud and misappropriation, regulatory oversight could substantially reduce these risks.

Furthermore, regulatory clarity would pave the way for long-term investments capable of stimulating technological innovation and blockchain infrastructure development. This would not only impact the crypto sector but also generate positive effects across related industries.

Market operators will also be able to rely on concrete guidance regarding tax compliance and administrative obligations, crucial aspects for integration into the regular financial system.

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the path toward institutional liquidity

In terms of liquidity and mainstream acceptance, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies would finally attain the status of legitimate and regulated assets. Currently, the integration between cryptocurrencies and traditional finance proceeds through Real World Assets (RWA), a rapidly expanding segment.

The RWA sector represents one of the fastest-growing segments of the entire blockchain ecosystem. It is tangible evidence of how regulatory change is guiding the market’s evolution toward normalization of digital assets, serving as a bridge between the old and the new financial model.

Regulation will not only face a challenging legislative design but also the task of balancing consumer protection, innovation freedom, and international competitiveness. However, Atkins’ statements and the coordination among authorities suggest that the United States is taking concrete steps toward this transition.