SEC Scales Back Crypto Enforcement as Legal Actions Drop Under Trump Administration
The SEC has dismissed or paused nearly 60% of crypto-related cases since January, marking a significant retreat from its previously aggressive stance under the Biden administration. High-profile lawsuits against Ripple Labs and Binance have slowed to a crawl, while traditional market enforcement remains unchanged.
Leadership changes loom as Democratic Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw prepares to depart, creating uncertainty about future regulatory direction. The SEC denies political influence despite the timing coinciding with Trump-aligned entities facing reduced scrutiny.
This enforcement pullback contrasts sharply with ongoing actions in equities and bond markets, suggesting crypto has become a lower priority. The shift comes as the industry faces mounting pressure from banking regulators and Congress.