Trump Reportedly Offered SEC Chair Role to Pro-Crypto Candidate Paul Atkins

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December 4, 2024 12:56 PM

In Brief:
Paul Atkins, a pro-crypto advocate and former SEC commissioner, has reportedly been offered the SEC chair position by President-elect Donald Trump.
Atkins has been vocal about supporting clear and innovation-friendly crypto regulations, contrasting sharply with Gary Gensler's stringent policies.
Rumors of Atkins' potential appointment have already influenced the crypto market, with XRP rising 1.5% and Reserve Rights (RSR) surging 30%.

Paul Atkins, known for his forward-thinking stance on digital assets, may soon helm the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under President-elect Donald Trump. Multiple sources suggest Trump has formally extended the offer, signaling a significant shift in the agency’s regulatory approach to cryptocurrencies.

Atkins, a former SEC commissioner under President George W. Bush, has actively criticized the SEC's lawsuit against Ripple and XRP, advocating for fairer crypto regulations. If confirmed, his leadership is expected to boost the U.S.'s role in global crypto innovation.

While rumors have sparked market enthusiasm, including a surge in XRP and Reserve Rights (RSR) tokens, Atkins has yet to officially accept the role. His extensive business interests could make the position less appealing, despite its potential impact on reshaping the SEC's crypto policies.

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