Peirce Departs SEC Amid Ongoing Crypto Reg Debate

Hester Peirce, known as 'Crypto Mom', left her position at the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on October 2, 2026. Her departure is significant due to her role in shaping crypto regulations.

Peirce had been a commissioner since January 2018 and led the agency's Crypto Task Force since February 2025. She has been an advocate for self-custody and individual freedom of choice in crypto markets.

With Peirce's departure, the SEC now consists of two members: chair Paul Atkins and Mark Uyeda. The agency can still operate with a quorum, but contested rules may become easier to attack in court.

For German investors, the European rulebook remains the governing authority for crypto regulations. The EU's MiCA regulation expired on July 1, 2026, requiring all providers serving clients in the EU to obtain authorisation as a crypto-asset service provider.