As the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman, Paul Atkins, prepares to discuss Project Crypto, the US is expected to witness a massive growth in the digital asset industry. After the GENIUS Act launch last month, several institutions and banks have already set their sights on crypto adoption in the country. Now, with Project Crypto unfolding, the crypto atmosphere in the US could shine and sparkle, according to analysts.
What is Project Crypto?
A comprehensive regulatory framework for the digital asset industry in the US, a small definition that has more to provide. The new compliance framework is aimed at providing clearer distinctions between tokens considered securities, commodities, or cash equivalents.
Paul Atkins announced Project Crypto on July 31, 2025, at the America First Policy Institute, signaling the SEC’s strong approach towards the digital asset industry, aiming for regulatory clarity, market competition, and more.
Atkins to discuss Project Crypto in ‘Mornings with Maria’
Reportedly, the SEC Chairman is scheduled to discuss the new regulatory framework with Maria Bartiromo on the ‘Mornings with Maria’ television program AT 20:30 (UTC+8).
Why Project Crypto matters?
So, why should traditional financial investors and crypto traders watch for this comprehensive framework? The project is expected to unfold a clear idea on legal clarity, custody modernization, super-app platforms, and innovation exemption for crypto startups.
Clear regulatory framework for digital assets – legal clarity over types of tokens can mitigate risk and uncertainty.
Not all tokens are securities– the SEC will bring guidelines to help determine if a digital asset is a commodity, security, stablecoin, or any other type of asset.
Custody and trading freedom– modernize rules by enabling more options for institutional crypto custody and protecting self-custody as a foundational right.
Super-apps for crypto and securities – bolstering crypto platforms for trading, lending, and staking for a simplified user experience. The apps also merge security and non-security assets on unified platforms.
Regulatory space for DeFi, on-chain trading & tokenization – the commission will provide clarity on Decentralized Finance (DeFi) protocols, tokenization of bonds, stocks, and other securities, and on-chain integration of financial markets.
Flexible regulations for crypto startups – New crypto startups joining the industry can experience an innovation exemption or flexible regulations.
What critics are saying about Project Crypto?
Some industry critics warn that Project Crypto gives a more permissive regulatory framework; therefore, it could lead to an increase in risk and fraud. Too relaxed rules in crypto regulations are a big win for business. However, it could allure dishonest players who are waiting for their chance.
Bottom Line
Project Crypto is more than a policy pivot—it’s the SEC’s roadmap to upgrading U.S. crypto regulation. With clarity over digital assets, more custody options, and relaxed rules for crypto startups, Project Crypto could be a challenging framework in the competitive crypto market. As experts oversee, the project’s easy rules can also give birth to potential risks or fraud.
