SEC Appoints Jamie Selway as Director of Trading and Markets
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has appointed Jamie Selway, a former global head of institutional markets at Blockchain.com, as the new Director of the Division of Trading and Markets. Selway brings substantial experience from both traditional finance and digital asset markets, signaling a notable shift in the SEC’s approach toward crypto regulation.
Selway’s role at Blockchain.com from 2018 to 2019 provided him with direct exposure to institutional crypto trading and infrastructure.
He joins the SEC during a time of evolving financial oversight, with regulatory agencies under pressure to define clear roles in overseeing blockchain technology and digital assets.
Brian Daly Tapped to Lead Investment Management Division
Alongside Selway, Brian Daly—a partner at a prominent Washington, DC-based law firm—has been named the new Director of the Division of Investment Management. Daly’s background includes expertise in digital assets, blockchain compliance, and traditional financial services.
“I’ve long respected the SEC’s mission and regulatory oversight,” said Daly, referring to his previous work with institutional clients and public policy engagement.
His appointment further aligns the SEC’s leadership with professionals experienced in crypto-native and emerging technologies.
Congress Eyes Regulatory Clarity for Digital Assets
These appointments come as Congress debates new legislation, including the CLARITY Act, designed to define jurisdictional boundaries between the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The act is moving through the House and could soon head for a floor vote.
The legislation aims to clarify which agency will regulate digital assets, potentially reshaping the oversight of DeFi protocols and crypto exchanges.
On Thursday, the SEC also announced the withdrawal of certain rulemaking notices—some targeting the crypto sector—that were originally proposed between March 2022 and November 2023.
These proposals included plans to expand the definition of “exchange” to cover decentralized platforms and add new custody requirements.
Leadership Gaps Still Remain in U.S. Financial Agencies
Despite recent additions, both the SEC and CFTC remain partially understaffed. One commissioner seat at the SEC remains vacant, and Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw is expected to leave by mid-2026.
The CFTC currently faces three leadership vacancies, including the chair position. Former commissioner Brian Quintenz is being considered by the Senate to return as CFTC Chair, though no additional nominations have been announced.
As regulators prepare for expanded oversight of digital assets, leadership and staffing decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of U.S. crypto regulation.