SEC Chair Paul Atkins’ comments on ICO classifications have reignited debate over how tokens should be regulated in the United States.
According to information shared by Wu Blockchain, Atkins favors a clearer framework for determining how crypto assets are categorized. His stance highlights that network tokens, digital collectibles and tokens with functional utility should not fall under securities rules.
Atkins argued that these categories should be reviewed by the CFTC instead of the SEC, suggesting that the SEC should focus solely on offerings that resemble traditional securities. This perspective adds a new angle to the long running question of which agency should oversee different types of tokens.
His comments are fueling expectations that ICO style fundraising could regain momentum in the US, particularly for innovation driven projects that may operate with lighter regulatory pressure. Meanwhile, Congress continues to debate a broad legislative package, and Atkins’ stance introduces fresh questions about how responsibilities between agencies may ultimately be divided.
