SEC Chair Paul S. Atkins introduced Regulation Crypto Assets today to establish a clear framework for digital markets. This proposal seeks to organize crypto capital markets and resolve regulatory ambiguity that pushed innovation offshore.
The framework creates two new registration exemptions to help entrepreneurs raise capital under federal securities laws. Startups may raise up to $5 million under the first exemption. A second, broader exemption allows fundraising up to $75 million if the company provides audited financial statements.
The proposal also introduces a conditional safe harbor to prevent some crypto assets from being classified as securities. This measure will fundamentally change how tokens are issued and traded within the United States.