SEC Unveils 2026 Agenda With Major Crypto Rule Changes for Exchanges, Brokers

The SEC released its 2026 Regulatory Agenda Tuesday, outlining plans to modify rules for exchanges and broker dealers specifically to address how they apply to crypto assets. The agency is considering changes to rules requiring brokers to hold minimum liquid capital, rules protecting customer assets during broker insolvency, and broker dealer recordkeeping requirements.

Exchange Rules Also Under Review

The SEC said new exchange rule changes are meant to clarify the regulatory framework for crypto assets, aiming to provide clearer guidelines for issuing, custody, and trading digital assets while still discouraging bad actors from breaking the law.

Shift Continues Under Chair Paul Atkins

The agenda reflects a friendlier approach to crypto that has developed over the past year under SEC Chair Paul Atkins, marking a clear departure from former Chair Gary Gensler’s more cautious enforcement-heavy stance, during which the agency treated many cryptocurrencies as securities. Many of Gensler-era enforcement cases have since been dropped.

Building on Earlier Guidance

In March, the SEC joined the Commodity Futures Trading Commission in issuing guidance stating that most cryptocurrencies are not securities, along with criteria for when a digital asset might lose that status. The new agenda includes rules that could establish safe harbors and exemptions for crypto sales.

The SEC said the proposed changes aim to bring greater market certainty, support capital formation, and encourage innovation while still protecting investors and ensuring they have the information needed to make informed decisions.