CFTC Chair Mike Selig Proposes U.S. Crypto Rules

CFTC Chair Michael Selig has unveiled a set of proposed rules aimed at establishing a formal regulatory framework for U.S. crypto markets, signaling a more active posture from the derivatives regulator toward digital assets. The proposal marks one of Selig’s first major policy moves since the Senate confirmed his chairmanship.

What the Proposed Framework Would Cover

Selig, who was confirmed as CFTC Chairman by the Senate earlier this year, is now using that mandate to push forward crypto-specific rulemaking. The CFTC has jurisdiction over crypto derivatives and commodity spot markets, positioning it as a key counterpart to the SEC in shaping U.S. digital asset oversight. For related coverage, see Bitcoin Near $80K as AVAX Resists the Crypto Market Sell-Off.

The proposed rules are directed at U.S. crypto markets broadly, though the precise scope, including which asset classes, trading venues, or instruments fall under the framework, remains subject to the formal rulemaking process. No final rule text has been adopted.

This development follows a period of regulatory uncertainty in which Coinbase filed for U.S. stock perpetual futures amid a broader CFTC standstill, illustrating the industry pressure on the regulator to provide clearer guidance.

What Comes Next in the Rulemaking Process

A proposed rule is not an enforceable requirement. After publication, the CFTC opens a public comment period, during which exchanges, traders, legal counsel, and advocacy groups can submit written responses. The agency reviews those comments before issuing a final rule, which carries its own effective date and implementation timeline.

Participants in crypto derivatives and spot commodity markets should track the official CFTC rulemaking docket for publication details, comment deadlines, and any revised drafts. The gap between a proposal and a final rule can span months or, in contested cases, years.

The CFTC’s move comes as SEC Chair Paul Atkins has separately signaled his agency is working on crypto regulatory clarity, suggesting a parallel but distinct effort across the two primary U.S. financial regulators. Jurisdictional boundaries between the two agencies remain an open question that the rulemaking process may also address.

Readers tracking U.S. crypto policy should also note that Illinois has drafted crypto tax rules that could apply from 2027, a reminder that state-level frameworks are advancing alongside federal efforts. Watch for the CFTC’s Federal Register publication and the opening of the public comment window as the next concrete milestones.

Additional source references: source document 1, source document 2.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency and digital asset markets carry significant risk. Always do your own research before making decisions.