The crypto world is buzzing with renewed optimism following Paul Atkins’ appointment as the new head of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 21. Known for his deregulatory leanings from his previous tenure as SEC commissioner, Atkins steps in to replace Gary Gensler, whose aggressive approach toward the crypto sector had sparked years of tension.
In the latest Byte-Sized Insight podcast, major voices in the digital asset space shared their views on what this leadership change could mean for innovation, investment, and regulatory clarity.
A Promising New Chapter for Crypto
Chris Perkins, president of CoinFund, spoke with host Savannah Fortis about the potential for a more constructive regulatory environment under Atkins.
“We’ve been operating under a cloud of uncertainty,” Perkins said. “Investors are used to market volatility, but regulatory risk — that’s been the real barrier.”
He explained how the previous administration’s posture had created fear not only among investors but also among developers, many of whom felt personally targeted.
With a friendlier regulatory climate potentially emerging, Perkins sees a huge opportunity.
“You’re removing that looming threat of personal liability. The result? New institutional capital flows in, developers return — it could be a breakout era for venture investment and innovation.”
Katherine Dowling, general counsel and CCO at Bitwise Asset Management, echoed that sentiment, pointing to a clear shift already underway.
“There’s already a change in tone,” she noted. “We’ve seen several legal actions paused or dismissed — not because regulation is vanishing, but because it’s becoming more focused on defining the nature of these digital assets.”
Dowling emphasized that the goal isn’t to remove regulation but to make it more precise.
“It’s about understanding what these assets are and how they should be treated — a move toward clarity rather than chaos.”
Looking Ahead: What the Atkins Era Might Bring
James Gernetzke, CFO of Exodus, said he’s hopeful for a more balanced dialogue with regulators moving forward.
“Having a chance to engage regulators on fair terms — that’s going to make a big difference,” he said, predicting a more predictable path for crypto firms seeking capital and public listings.
“I think the IPO wave is just around the corner. Give it 10 to 12 months — it’s coming.”
Perkins summed up the hopeful mood around the pending market structure bill, calling it a game-changer.
“That bill could unlock everything,” he said. “Clear definitions, smoother capital formation, and a structured disclosure process — that’s the foundation for real growth.”
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