SEC, CFTC Chiefs Quash Merger Speculation, Combat Market Anxiety

U.S. financial regulators delivered a firm rejection of agency consolidation rumors during a rare joint appearance in Washington. SEC Chair Paul Atkins and acting CFTC Chair Caroline Pham explicitly denied merger discussions, labeling them as distractions from pressing regulatory coordination challenges.

"Harmonization, not merger" became the defining message as both chairs sought to calm cryptocurrency markets rattled by weeks of speculation. Atkins dismissed the talks as "fanciful," while Pham directly addressed what she called market "FUD" - fear, uncertainty, and doubt - surrounding potential organizational changes.

The regulatory unity displayed marks a significant effort to stabilize digital asset markets that have shown sensitivity to oversight uncertainties. The joint appearance strategically emphasized continuity in crypto oversight approaches rather than structural upheaval.