SEC Chair Atkins: Agency ready to write crypto rules if CLARITY Act stalls

SEC Chair Paul Atkins said the agency is prepared to introduce its own rules covering key crypto market structure issues if Congress fails to pass the CLARITY Act, though he expressed confidence the legislation would clear Congress.

"We're doing all we can to help them answer their questions and provide technical assistance. But ultimately, statute is the way to future-proof something," Atkins said in a CNBC interview. "We are ready, willing and able to come out with rules that address the same issues in clarity and in other aspects of the crypto market."

The SEC is actively assisting lawmakers with technical guidance as they work through the proposed crypto market structure legislation. Atkins said the agency could address many of the same regulatory issues through its own rulemaking authority, but stressed that congressional action remains the preferred path. The legislation would provide lasting regulatory certainty and give the SEC clear direction for overseeing the crypto market, he argued.