SEC Issues New Guidance on Crypto Asset Securities

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued new guidance clarifying which crypto assets are considered securities. This move aims to provide clearer regulatory frameworks for digital assets.

The guidance outlines specific criteria that determine whether a crypto asset qualifies as a security under U.S. law. This is the first time the SEC has provided such detailed definitions, which could significantly impact how crypto assets are issued and traded.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has also been involved in discussions, emphasizing that most digital assets do not fall under the category of securities. This joint effort aims to streamline regulatory approaches across different agencies.

This development is significant for crypto market participants as it provides more clarity on compliance requirements and could influence the future of crypto asset offerings and trading.

Key facts

• The SEC issued new guidance on crypto asset securities.
• Criteria for determining securities status have been outlined.
• This is the first detailed definition from the SEC on this matter.
• The CFTC also participated in the regulatory discussions.

Sources

• https://www.coindesk.com/policy/2026/03/17/u-s-sec-issues-first-ever-definitions-for-what-crypto-assets-are-securities
• https://www.theblock.co/post/394018/sec-cftc-crypto-guidance-declaring-most-digital-assets-are-not-securities