SEC's Crypto Enforcement Unit: We're Coming For You All

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) remains vigilant in its pursuit of crypto platforms and decentralized finance (DeFi) entities that it believes are infringing upon securities regulations, akin to the actions against Coinbase Global Inc. COIN and Binance, stated David Hirsch, the leader of the SEC's Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit.

Hirsch, speaking at the Securities Enforcement Forum Central in Chicago, highlighted that while his division has been notably active in its litigation efforts, the SEC's concerns aren't limited to just the prominent exchanges.

This comes as a pertinent reminder, especially with the upcoming Benzinga's Future of Digital Assets conference on Nov. 14, where such regulatory matters are expected to be discussed.

Hirsch emphasized, “We’re going to continue to bring those charges,” pointing out that several other firms, mirroring the operations of Coinbase and Binance, are under the SEC's scrutiny.

Despite facing challenges in some of its crypto-related cases, the SEC remains undeterred.

Hirsch added, "We're going to continue to be active as to intermediaries,” which encompasses brokers, dealers, exchanges and other entities in the crypto domain.

“We're going to continue to conduct investigations, we're gonna be active in the space, and adding the label of DeFi is not going to be something that's going to deter us from continuing our work,” he said.

Also Read: Crypto Ethos Vs. Regulatory Compliance: Who Will Win The Battle For DeFi?

Historically, the U.S. securities watchdog adopted a more measured enforcement approach, primarily targeting infractions at regulated entities.

With digital asset companies often challenging the SEC in court due to the existential threat posed by charges, the dynamics are shifting.

A. Kristina Littman, the event's moderator and Hirsch's predecessor at the SEC, now affiliated with Willkie Farr & Gallagher, noted the apparent strain on the SEC's resources.

Hirsch acknowledged the limitations, stating, "There are more tokens extant... than the SEC or any agency has the resources to pursue directly."

He also highlighted the existence of numerous centralized platforms, some of which might be functioning as unregistered exchanges.

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