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The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has removed crypto oversight from its 2026 examination priorities.
Notably, the update was released in Washington on November 17, 2025, as the agency outlined its new focus during the administration of President Donald Trump.
Shift in SEC Focus for the New Fiscal Year
The crypto sector is no longer listed as a separate priority in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s examination plan for 2026.
It was announced in the SEC’s annual statement, which was released in DC earlier this week.
The agency explained how it will direct its reviews in the fiscal year that ended on September 30, 2026.
Similarly, the Division of Examinations sets out its yearly priorities to show where it will place attention.
These priorities help firms understand what examiners might review. The list highlights fiduciary duty, standards of conduct, the custody rule, and data privacy requirements.
Likewise, these areas guide the Division’s work across investment advisers, broker-dealers, clearing agencies, and other regulated entities.
It is worth noting that the statement does not include a separate section for digital asset activity.
Previous lists contained clear references to crypto trading, asset volatility, and compliance concerns.
The absence of a dedicated section marks a change in how the SEC presents its direction for the coming year.
President Donald Trump expressed support for the growth of the digital asset sector. His administration encouraged the development of new financial technology.
The new examination plan reflects a different tone from past years, when the agency often raised concerns about fraud and gaps in compliance.
SEC Chairman Paul Atkins stated in the announcement that examinations should not serve as a “gotcha” process.
He noted that the list aims to help firms prepare and understand what the Division expects.
Acting Director Keith Cassidy added that the Division plans to continue improving its oversight in an environment that is becoming more complex.
Attention on Conduct, Custody, and Privacy Rules
The Division plans to review how firms handle key responsibilities. Fiduciary duty remains a central point, as advisers must act in the best interest of their clients.
Meanwhile, Standards of conduct also remain important, as examiners check whether firms follow the rules that govern recommendations and advice.
Custody of assets is another major area. Examiners look at how firms safeguard client funds and property.
Regulation S-P received added attention due to amendments adopted in 2024. These amendments require stronger protection of customer information.
Firms must keep data secure and respond effectively to incidents that could compromise client records.
Newly registered advisers and investment companies remain a priority group. The SEC often reviews these firms early to help guide them toward strong compliance systems.
These reviews can also identify risks in business models that are still developing.
Industry Reaction and Broader Policy Context
Market participants may see the shift as a sign of a lighter touch toward the crypto sector.
Firms that offer digital asset services could interpret the change as an opening for more activity.
The lack of a separate section does not remove oversight, but it does show a change in presentation compared with previous years.
More so, the Division’s four pillars continue to guide its work. These include promoting compliance, preventing fraud, monitoring risk, and informing policy.
In addition, firms are expected to adjust their programs to meet these expectations.
The updated priorities show how the agency organizes its focus while still leaving room for adjustments when risks appear.
President Donald Trump’s support for digital assets is shaping the broader environment in which the SEC operates.
His administration sets a direction that differs from the approach taken before 2025.
The new list reflects that change, while the Division maintains its core responsibilities.
