• The SEC released its 2026 examination priorities with no direct mention of crypto
• This is a major change from previous years, where crypto had its own section
• The shift appears aligned with President Trump’s more crypto-friendly approach
• The SEC says the list is not exhaustive and could still include crypto reviews
• Last year’s priorities specifically targeted Bitcoin and Ether ETFs
• The new 2026 list focuses on fiduciary duty, custody rules, customer protection
• The SEC will examine risks from AI, automation, and cybersecurity
• Trump’s administration has deregulated the crypto sector and expanded involvement
• The omission could signal reduced enforcement pressure on crypto

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its examination priorities for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026 — and for the first time in several years, the document makes no specific mention of crypto or digital assets. This marks a noticeable shift in tone from the agency, which previously listed crypto as an explicit area of focus.

The omission comes during a period of rapid growth in the U.S. crypto industry under President Donald Trump. His administration has pushed for less regulation, while the Trump family has entered the sector through a crypto trading platform, a mining company, a stablecoin initiative and several token projects.

In its announcement, the SEC clarified that the published priorities are not a full list and that the Division of Examinations may still review crypto-related firms when necessary. However, removing crypto from the priority list is still a major symbolic shift, especially compared with past years.

SEC Chair Paul Atkins said examinations are meant to be cooperative rather than punitive. He stressed that publishing these priorities should help firms prepare and encourage open communication with examiners.

The Division of Examinations oversees investment advisers, broker-dealers, stock exchanges and other regulated financial entities. In 2023 and 2024, the Division included dedicated sections on crypto assets and emerging financial technology. Under former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, the agency repeatedly targeted crypto activities such as token sales, exchange operations, and asset management. At that time, the SEC explicitly said it would monitor areas like spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs, trading practices and custody risks.

This year’s list looks very different. Instead of focusing on crypto, the SEC has shifted toward “core areas” like fiduciary duty, safeguarding customer funds, and protecting consumer information. The agency also highlighted risks tied to artificial intelligence, automated investment tools and cybersecurity — including concerns around ransomware.

Even though crypto isn’t named, the SEC’s general focus on new technologies suggests that some digital-asset companies may still be examined under broader categories. But overall, the lack of a dedicated crypto section suggests a softening stance and potentially fewer regulatory battles in 2026.

Final Thought

The SEC’s decision to remove crypto from its 2026 exam priorities marks a major shift in tone. While this does not eliminate regulatory oversight, it signals a less aggressive approach and aligns with the current administration’s pro-crypto stance. For the industry, this could mean more breathing room — but companies will still need to stay compliant with broader rules on custody, fiduciary duty and cybersecurity.