Enforcement actions related to cryptocurrencies at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission have decreased by 60%.

During Atkins' tenure

29 digital currency cases were resolved last year, including 7 cases settled during Atkins' presidency.

A director at Cornerstone Research stated that enforcement measures taken during Chairwoman Atkins' tenure demonstrate a shift in the SEC's approach to overseeing digital assets.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission issued significantly fewer legal actions related to cryptocurrencies last year. A report from Cornerstone Research also indicated a sharp shift in priorities following the appointment of Trump administration official Paul Atkins as SEC Chair (#SEC ).

The report noted that the SEC led about 13 cryptocurrency-related actions last year, down from 33 in 2024, representing a 60% decrease and the lowest level since 2017. Of these actions, 5 were carried out during Atkins' administration, with 8 alleging fraud.

As the SEC's focus shifts toward fraud cases, attention has moved from broad registration theories to cases based on clear harm to investors, which are easier to adjudicate in courts.

The report also highlighted the settlement of 29 cryptocurrency-related actions last year, including 7 cases resolved during Atkins' administration. Meanwhile, total financial penalties imposed on digital asset market participants reached $142 million in 2025. Cornerstone also noted that this amount accounts for less than 3% of penalties imposed a year earlier.

Shift During Atkins' Administration

Robert Leitson, director at Cornerstone Research, explained that enforcement actions taken during Chairwoman Atkins' tenure show a shift in the SEC's approach to overseeing digital assets, aligning with priorities set at the beginning of 2025.

He added that regulation of digital assets continues to evolve, and this year they will pay close attention to it.

The SEC leadership was handed over to Atkins in April 2025, followed shortly by an interim period. Legal observers also noted a noticeable change in the agency's direction since the leadership change.

If the SEC continues to prioritize cases it classifies as fraud, the next phase of U.S. oversight of cryptocurrencies may focus less on surprise lawsuits and more on establishing rules and guidelines.

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