SEC Shifts Focus in Crypto Enforcement Actions

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has acknowledged that some enforcement actions against cryptocurrency companies have not directly protected investors. According to Odaily, the SEC highlighted misunderstandings in the interpretation of federal securities laws. Since the fiscal year 2022, the SEC has initiated 95 enforcement actions, resulting in approximately $2.3 billion in fines. However, some cases did not reveal actual investor harm or provide clear protection or benefits. The regulatory body noted a tendency to prioritize quantity over quality in these actions, along with improper resource allocation. Under the leadership of current Chairman Paul Atkins, the SEC has adjusted its enforcement strategy, shifting from focusing on the number of cases to targeting fraud and market manipulation, which have a more significant impact on investors. Data indicates that enforcement actions against public companies, including those in the crypto sector, decreased by about 30% in the fiscal year 2025 compared to the previous year.