US Crypto Regulation Evolves as SEC Proposes New Framework

Cryptocurrency regulation varies significantly across different jurisdictions and asset types. In the United States, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversees securities markets, while the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) regulates derivatives under the Commodity Exchange Act.

The SEC issued an interpretation in March 2026 categorizing five crypto-asset categories: digital commodities, digital collectibles, digital tools, stablecoins, and digital securities. The CFTC joined this interpretation regarding administration of the Commodity Exchange Act.

In August 2026, the SEC proposed Regulation Crypto Assets, a tailored securities-offering framework for certain investment contracts involving crypto assets. This proposal builds on the agency's March interpretation but remains a proposed rule rather than a finalized regulation.