Bipartisan Senate Proposal Seeks to Extend CFTC’s Reach Into Crypto Spot Markets
A bipartisan discussion draft from the Senate Agriculture Committee aims to give the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) authority over spot-market trading of digital commodities like Bitcoin and other non-security crypto tokens. Senators John Boozman and Cory Booker introduced the proposal, emphasizing the necessity for clear regulatory rules in the emerging crypto market while protecting consumer interests. The draft mandates exchanges, brokers, and dealers to register with the CFTC and outlines protections for self-custody wallet rights. The legislation proposes a dedicated funding stream for CFTC's new spot market oversight, establishing a transition period for existing operators awaiting registration. However, sections of the draft regarding decentralized finance (DeFi) and anti-money laundering regulations remain unresolved. The push reflects an effort to harmonize regulatory efforts between the CFTC and the SEC, marking a significant development in U.S. financial oversight as both agencies look to reduce duplication and conflict in their regulatory frameworks.
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