Paul Atkins has dramatically reshaped the SEC’s approach to digital assets during his first year at the helm. Breaking sharply from the aggressive enforcement tactics of previous administrations, Atkins’ regulator has quietly dropped several high-profile cases against crypto firms. This strategic pivot signals a softer, more collaborative era for the industry, offering much-needed relief to companies previously stifled by relentless litigation.

Despite this regulatory thaw, a cloud of uncertainty remains. The agency is currently in a holding pattern, anxiously awaiting Congress to pass a comprehensive market