Story perspectives

SEC's Crypto Proposal Under Review for Innovation Exemption

4/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The SEC's crypto safe harbor proposal is under review by the White House's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA).
The proposal includes a startup exemption allowing projects to raise capital without registration.
It also provides an investment contract safe harbor clarifying when digital assets are not securities.
SEC Chair Paul Atkins cites the need for stability as the agency pursues an innovation exemption for an onchain-assets sandbox, sparking debate.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Securities Act of 1933 established federal regulation of securities, shifting from state blue sky laws to a disclosure-based framework. The SEC, formed in 1934, now proposes a startup exemption to facilitate capital raising without registration, echoing historical adaptations to market changes. This initiative could redefine digital asset regulations, balancing innovation with investor protection, much like past reforms aimed at enhancing market integrity.

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Story summary

The SEC's crypto safe harbor proposal is under review by the White House's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA).
The proposal includes a startup exemption allowing projects to raise capital without registration.
It also provides an investment contract safe harbor clarifying when digital assets are not securities.
SEC Chair Paul Atkins cites the need for stability as the agency pursues an innovation exemption for an onchain-assets sandbox, sparking debate.

1 / 2