SEC’s Crypto Task Force Assembles Mix of Agency Veterans, Industry Experts

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has named members of its Crypto Task Force, bringing together a mix of longtime agency officials and specialists with experience in digital assets.

Led by Commissioner Hester Peirce, a vocal advocate for clearer crypto regulations, the task force includes SEC veterans and advisors with backgrounds in law, policy, and blockchain-focused regulation. 

The initiative aims to guide the agency’s approach to crypto oversight as the industry faces increased scrutiny.

Peirce said in a statement Monday the task force would work to find “workable solutions” to regulatory challenges, signaling engagement with industry stakeholders.

Richard Gabbert, a longtime SEC staffer and Peirce’s former counsel, will serve as chief of staff, while Michael Selig, previously a partner at law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher, has been appointed chief counsel. 

Taylor Asher, who advised former Commissioner Mark Uyeda on policy matters, will take the role of chief policy advisor.

Other members include Landon Zinda, previously with Coin Center, a think tank advocating for crypto-friendly policies, and Veronica Reynolds, a former attorney at Baker Hostetler LLP specializing in NFTs and metaverse regulations. 

Bernard Nolan, formerly in the SEC’s Division of Investment Management, brings experience in blockchain-related securities laws.

The task force’s formation comes amid growing pressure for the SEC to clarify its stance on crypto regulation. 

Industry participants had previously criticized the agency’s enforcement-first approach, when former Chair Gary Gensler was at the helm. Gensler had maintained that most crypto assets qualified as securities.

While the SEC has not detailed specific initiatives, the composition of the task force suggests a focus on both traditional securities law and emerging crypto frameworks. 

The group is expected to play a key role in shaping policy recommendations and enforcement priorities in the months ahead.