Published May, 29 2025

Unpacking the SEC’s Crypto Task Force

What's going on at the SEC and what does it mean for crypto? This article covers what's changing.
The letters "SEC" in gold, three-dimensional text, are superimposed over a background pattern of glowing blue and orange cryptocurrency symbols (like Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum) and digital circuitry.

If you follow crypto news, you know regulation in the U.S. has been a hot topic. In the past, these ever-changing rules have been nothing less than confusing and strict. But times are changing.

Under the new Trump administration, we’re seeing a major shift in crypto policy, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is taking a fresh look at the industry. More importantly, though, a new SEC Crypto Task Force, led by Commissioner Hester Peirce, was formed in January 2025.

This Task Force is focused on developing clearer rules that promote crypto innovation.

This is a major change from the previous “regulation by enforcement” approach. But what does this all mean for holders, investors, and everyday crypto users like you? 

That’s what we’ll cover today. 

Read on to learn more about the new SEC Crypto Task Force and the future of regulations in the U.S.

What's Changed? The New SEC Approach

Let’s talk about what’s changing. So far, we’ve seen a flurry of crypto-related movement. 

First is President Trump’s pro-crypto pivot. Not only has he been talking positively about crypto and Bitcoin, but he’s also created the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets* (learn more at whitehouse.gov) in January of 2025. 

Next is the formation of the SEC Crypto Task Force.

The specific goal of this task force is to provide regulatory clarity for digital assets within the SEC’s jurisdiction, determine which rules apply, and recommend policies that foster innovation while protecting investors.

At the helm is Commissioner Hester Peirce* (as mentioned on bloomberg.com), who some in the industry have started calling “Crypto Mom.”

Moreover, we’ve seen the old crypto task force get a rebrand. It’s now the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU). This is a sharp pivot from what it was to a position focused on fighting cybercrime and clear fraud, rather than broadly targeting crypto projects based solely on registration status.

So far, we’ve seen some older lawsuits either being withdrawn or paused. 

A New "Road Trip": What Commissioner Peirce is Saying

Commissioner Peirce has laid out a few key elements of the SEC’s vision for crypto’s future. In short, they’re trying to develop a smoother journey for the industry with clearer rules, in contrast to the confusion and enforcement-heavy path of the past.

Here are a few key goals and priorities:

Those are just a few key points that we’ve seen outlined already. Of course, we’re still very early. It’s worth keeping an eye on these regulatory changes to see how they evolve and develop. 

Now, this is all well and good, but what does it mean for the industry?

What Does This Mean for Crypto and Bitcoin?

What does all this change mean for the industry?

Well, first off, it means crypto-related businesses may be able to take a sigh of relief and refocus their attention on innovation. Crypto projects may no longer need to fear sudden lawsuits, so long as they are operating in good faith.

Pair this with the possibility of clearer guidelines on the horizon, and it may mean crypto companies can offer new products and services without the fear of constant legal scrutiny.

Is this good news for Bitcoin

Bitcoin has long been considered a commodity, which means it’s likely outside of many of these new proposed rule changes. Even so, with clearer guidelines for exchanges, custodians, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other industry players, it should make it easier for everyone, including big institutions, to buy, sell, and invest in Bitcoin.

In terms of mass adoption, it’s looking like a good sign.

Most importantly, though, even with all these proposed changes, the SEC’s core job is still to protect investors. Their focus is now shifting towards clear fraud, with risky projects or scams in the crosshairs. 

What's Next?

Where do we go from here?

Well, there’s a long journey ahead. Creating good relationships and regulations takes time, and by many accounts, the way crypto has been treated in the past creates a bit of a setback.

Adding to this are the other interested parties in the picture.

The SEC isn’t the only player here. There’s also the President’s Working Group, other agencies (like the CFTC for commodities), and potentially Congress. That last one is important, as Congress could pass laws that change the whole picture.

The good news is that the SEC is actively asking for feedback from industry players and the crypto community.

This is a positive sign for the future development of rules that make sense in practice.

Start Your Crypto Journey with Bitcoin Depot

The SEC’s Crypto Tax Force will certainly change the landscape of regulations for industry, investors, and holders like you. In many ways, it’s a new era for Bitcoin and crypto. 

But, not everything is written in stone just yet. While we’ve seen a flurry of positive news, keeping an eye on what’s actually happening will be the best way to stay up to date and informed. 

When it comes to buying Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, there’s no better place to start than with us here at Bitcoin Depot.

Not only do we operate the largest network of Bitcoin ATMs, with over 8,500 locations (as of April 2025) across the U.S., Canada, and Australia, but you can also purchase Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies online using our buy online service.

For cash purchase of Bitcoin, though, our Bitcoin ATMs are your go-to choice.

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