SEC Chair Paul Atkins Supports Cryptocurrency in 401(k) Retirement Plans

TLDR

• SEC Chair Paul Atkins endorses cryptocurrency inclusion in 401(k) retirement plans with appropriate safeguards for retirees.
• CFTC Chair Michael Selig forecasts digital asset growth under new U.S. regulatory framework currently under Senate review.
• Senate Agriculture Committee moved forward with crypto market structure legislation defining CFTC and SEC oversight roles.
• Trump’s August 2025 executive order already permits crypto in 401(k)s, potentially affecting $10 trillion in retirement assets.
• Both regulators want to establish clear rules to attract blockchain firms back to the United States from overseas.

SEC Chair Paul Atkins announced that cryptocurrency is ready for inclusion in 401(k) retirement accounts. He made these comments during a CNBC interview alongside CFTC Chair Michael Selig.

Atkins emphasized that crypto adoption in retirement plans should include proper safeguards. He noted many Americans already have indirect exposure to digital assets through their pension funds.

The Department of Labor previously advised extreme caution when adding cryptocurrency to 401(k) investment options. Regulators cited concerns about the volatile nature of digital assets.

President Trump shifted this position in August 2025 with an executive order. The order permits crypto investments in 401(k) plans across the country.

This policy change opens access to approximately $10 trillion in retirement savings. The White House stated that digital assets provide competitive returns and diversification options.

Senate Moves Forward on Crypto Legislation

The Senate Agriculture Committee advanced draft legislation on crypto market structure. The committee completed its markup in under one hour.

The bill clarifies oversight responsibilities between the CFTC and SEC. It would expand the CFTC’s authority over certain digital asset markets.

The legislation still requires approval from the full Senate. It must then pass through the House of Representatives before becoming law.

CFTC Chair Selig described this as a pivotal time for the crypto industry. He said clear regulations will allow digital assets to thrive in America.

Bringing Blockchain Companies Back to America

Selig highlighted that blockchain technology has existed for 15 years. He said it is changing how markets operate within the CFTC’s jurisdiction.

Many blockchain companies relocated overseas due to unclear U.S. regulations. Selig stressed the importance of bringing these firms back to American soil.

He expressed confidence that SEC and CFTC cooperation will create effective national standards. These rules aim to make the U.S. the leading destination for crypto businesses.

Selig predicted new products and onchain markets will emerge under clear regulations. He believes setting high standards will attract global innovation to America.

The CFTC chair said establishing a gold standard for crypto markets will benefit the entire industry. Financial applications and blockchain technology will advance more rapidly with regulatory certainty.

Bitcoin has dropped 19.54% over the past three months. Ethereum and Dogecoin have also experienced price declines during this period.

Both regulatory leaders are working with Senate lawmakers on finalizing the legislation. The bipartisan interest suggests momentum for creating comprehensive crypto regulations.

Atkins stressed that measured implementation matters when adding crypto to retirement plans. Guardrails must protect retirees while allowing access to digital assets.

The Senate Agriculture Committee’s swift action indicates strong support for crypto regulation. Both the SEC and CFTC are coordinating to establish clear oversight boundaries.

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