SEC Removes Cryptocurrencies from Priority List! “But in a Good Way!”

In its latest statement, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) did not mention cryptocurrencies as an area of focus next year, unlike previous years, in its review priorities document.

Accordingly, the SEC announced its inspection and audit priorities for fiscal year 2026, and for the first time, cryptocurrencies were not specified as a specific focus area.

The SEC has de-emphasized oversight of companies offering crypto-asset-related services among its priorities for examining and auditing Wall Street firms for the current fiscal year, which began on October 1.

The SEC’s statement notably omitted the regular section on cryptocurrency oversight, in line with US President Donald Trump’s support for the industry.

At this point, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) are not on the SEC’s list of review priorities for 2026.

This signals a major shift towards normalization of cryptocurrencies rather than sanctions during the Trump era.

However, experts point out that removing crypto from the SEC’s primary regulatory focus doesn’t mean it’s abandoning oversight. Rather, cryptocurrencies are no longer considered a problem area. They’re being integrated into the broader regulatory system alongside other assets and technologies.

The removal of crypto from priority review for 2026 doesn’t mean the SEC won’t review digital assets at all. On the contrary, the SEC can still intervene when digital assets pose risks, but the approach is shifting toward normalization rather than punishment.

“Given the volatility and activity in the cryptocurrency markets, the Division will continue to monitor and, where appropriate, examine registered entities that offer services related to crypto assets,” the SEC’s Division of Examinations said in a statement last year.

The SEC’s Division of Examinations is responsible for overseeing compliance with federal securities laws by organizations including investment advisers, broker-dealers, clearinghouses and exchanges.

*This is not investment advice.