Ripple Execs Applaud Trump’s SEC Nominee: A New Chapter for Crypto Regulation

Ripple Execs Applaud Trump’s SEC Nominee: A New Chapter for Crypto Regulation

Ripple executives are rallying behind President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for SEC Chair, Paul Atkins, marking a hopeful turn for the cryptocurrency industry. Known for his crypto-friendly stance, Atkins is set to replace Gary Gensler, whose tenure was characterized by stringent regulatory measures. This change could usher in a more innovation-friendly era for digital assets in the U.S.

Ripple Hails SEC Leadership Shift

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse voiced strong support for Atkins on social media platform X, saying:

"An outstanding choice – Paul Atkins at the helm of the SEC will bring common sense back to the agency. Along with Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda, it’s time to end the prohibition era on crypto, restoring freedom of choice, economic growth, and innovation."

Garlinghouse’s optimism aligns with the broader crypto community's desire for a balanced regulatory approach. Commissioners Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda, known for their pro-crypto views, are expected to collaborate with Atkins to create transparent guidelines that encourage growth while ensuring compliance.

Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer, Stuart Alderoty, also weighed in, calling Atkins’ nomination a step toward aligning the SEC’s actions with investor protection and rational policymaking:

"The triumvirate of Atkins, Peirce, and Uyeda at the SEC will not only bring common sense back to the agency but true investor protection as well."

A Departure from Gensler’s Approach

Gary Gensler, who championed aggressive enforcement actions against cryptocurrency platforms, announced his resignation effective January 20, 2025, the same day as Trump’s inauguration. Commissioner Jaime Lizárraga will also step down just days earlier. These departures are expected to pave the way for a seismic shift in the SEC's approach to cryptocurrency regulation.

Under Gensler, the SEC faced criticism for creating uncertainty in the crypto market, with enforcement actions perceived as stifling innovation. In contrast, Ripple executives and others in the industry hope Atkins’ leadership will prioritize clear, forward-thinking regulatory frameworks.

The Industry’s Anticipation

Ripple has been at the forefront of advocating for regulatory clarity in the cryptocurrency space. With ongoing scrutiny of the SEC’s past policies, the company’s leadership sees this transition as a chance to align crypto oversight with economic growth and market integrity.

If Atkins, Peirce, and Uyeda succeed in reshaping the SEC’s approach, the move could significantly boost investor confidence, accelerate innovation, and position the U.S. as a leader in the global cryptocurrency market.