Coinbase CEO to Next SEC Chair: Withdraw Cases, Apologize

Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, recently posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), calling for the next SEC Chairman to “withdraw all frivolous cases” and issue an apology to the American public. Armstrong’s bold statement highlights the frustration felt within the crypto community in regards to the agency’s inconsistent approach towards digital assets.

The next SEC chair should withdraw all frivolous cases, and issue an apology to the American people.

It would not undue the damage done to the country, but it would start the process of restoring trust in the SEC as an institution. pic.twitter.com/kWVx73vYMs

— Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) October 29, 2024

Regulatory Confusion in Crypto Industry

The image attached below indicates the persisting confusion revolving around the digital assets. It shows the agency’s contradictory views over the years (from 2018 to 2024) on issues like whether digital assets are securities based on the Howey test, Bitcoin’s classification, and the regulatory power that prevails over digital asset exchanges. Form the image it can be seen how the agency’s stance has changed over the years without any solid base to support their verdict. This has led to establishment of unclear regulatory guidelines, through which the investors and crypto community are trying to navigate.

SEC’s cryptocurrency stance over the years (Source: X Post)

SEC Must Apologize

Armstrong believes that an apology from the next SEC Chair cannot erase the damage done but could act as a step towards rebuilding trust amongst the community members. His post reflects the broader sentiment in the crypto community that regulatory clarity is essential for industrial growth and stability.

As the pressure increases, the community hopes that the agency takes necessary measures to clarify their stance and provide a more stable, clear and transparent framework for digital assets in the U.S.

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