In a significant development for the crypto industry, SEC Chair Paul Atkins revealed that the agency is exploring an “innovation exemption” within its regulatory framework to encourage the tokenization of real-world assets. The move is designed to allow new trading mechanisms and provide targeted regulatory relief to accelerate the adoption of blockchain-based financial systems.

“If it can be tokenized, it will be tokenized,” Atkins said, emphasizing the inevitability of assets moving on-chain.

This approach marks a major departure from the enforcement-heavy stance under former Chair Gary Gensler. The proposal aligns with broader legislative momentum seen in the recent passage of the GENIUS Act, a bill aimed at clarifying crypto regulations in the U.S.


GENIUS Act Passes, Paving Way for Tokenized Securities

The GENIUS Act, along with the CLARITY Act and the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, was passed by the U.S. House and is now awaiting President Donald Trump’s signature. Once signed into law, the regulatory framework will become active either 18 months after approval or 120 days after final rulemaking by the Treasury and Federal Reserve.

These legislative efforts are widely seen as pro-innovation steps, especially among crypto developers and blockchain entrepreneurs. Industry leaders have hailed the acts as a “clear signal” that decentralized finance (DeFi) is gaining legitimacy in Washington.


Crypto Industry Applauds; Critics Raise Consumer Protection Concerns

The crypto sector responded positively to the SEC’s new direction. Developers and investors argue that a dedicated innovation exemption would allow startups to test new models without facing immediate regulatory hurdles.

However, Senator Elizabeth Warren voiced sharp criticism, warning that the proposed changes do not offer enough consumer protection. She argued that the bills fail to address risks like market manipulation and fraud, which could leave retail investors vulnerable.

“It’s not enough to just move fast — we also need to protect people along the way,” Warren said in a public statement.


U.S. Moves Closer to Tokenized Future

With the SEC showing signs of flexibility and the GENIUS Act on the verge of becoming law, the United States is positioning itself as a leader in the tokenization revolution. While the debate around regulatory balance and consumer safety continues, it is clear that on-chain financial infrastructure is becoming a policy priority.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.

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