CFTC Moves to Regulate Spot Crypto Trading Amid Congressional Gridlock
While DC politicians bicker over crypto frameworks, the CFTC is seizing the reins—spot markets could soon get a federal stamp of approval.
Subheader: Regulatory End-Run Around Congress
The derivatives watchdog is quietly drafting rules to oversee Bitcoin and Ethereum spot trading, bypassing Capitol Hill's paralysis. Insiders say a proposal could drop before 2026.
Subheader: Wall Street's Worst Nightmare?
If approved, regulated spot trading would force institutional players to stop treating crypto like a casino side-bet—though some hedge funds will still find ways to lose your money.
Crypto Markets Turn Green as Political Stability Returns to Washington
Pham’s initiative comes during an unusual moment for the agency: she is the only active commissioner at the CFTC, granting her broad discretion to advance key policies despite Washington’s ongoing political gridlock. Her MOVE coincides with delays in confirming Trump’s nominee, Mike Selig, who is expected to eventually take over leadership of the agency.
The timing is also notable. In September, the SEC and CFTC jointly clarified that registered exchanges are not barred from facilitating spot commodity trading, paving the way for this development. Industry leaders view the step as a crucial milestone for integrating crypto into mainstream financial infrastructure.
“Having spot crypto markets under CFTC oversight is a breakthrough moment,” said Alexander Blume, CEO of Two Prime Digital Assets. “It brings transparency and credibility to an area that has long operated in regulatory gray zones.”
While Pham is reportedly considering a transition to MoonPay after her CFTC tenure, her latest move could become one of the most significant regulatory milestones in U.S. crypto history – positioning the CFTC as the first agency to formally legitimize leveraged spot crypto trading onshore.
