Regulators in the United States have been ramping up their efforts to regulate the crypto space, and the latest move from the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is no exception. The SEC has announced that it is seeking to hire general attorneys for its Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit in the Division of Enforcement. This unit is responsible for enforcing laws and regulations governing the use of crypto assets and cyber issues.
The job posting, which is available on the official government website, states that the successful candidates will be responsible for conducting “complex, fast-moving investigations” involving crypto asset securities and cyber issues. They will also be required to draft subpoenas or document requests, question witnesses through interviews, evaluate evidence and more.
This announcement comes shortly after the SEC’s chairman, Gary Gensler, asked for nearly $2.4 billion in funding to help the agency chase down crypto “misconduct” on March 29. This move highlights the regulatory pressure that the crypto community has been facing in the United States over the last year.
The crackdown on the crypto industry by US regulators has been ongoing, with local regulators planning to introduce new taxes directed towards the industry. Some industry insiders are concerned that these and other regulations could “choke” the industry and prevent much-needed innovation.
The Beaxy cryptocurrency exchange recently shut down after the SEC filed multiple charges against the company’s founder. Japan-based decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) Sushi is also facing a subpoena from the SEC. These actions demonstrate the SEC’s commitment to enforcing regulations governing the use of crypto assets.
However, not everyone in positions of regulatory authority is on board with the SEC’s approach. Congressman Tom Emmer has called Gensler a “bad faith regulator” and questioned his methods of industry oversight. Emmer’s comments highlight the ongoing debate about the appropriate level of regulation for the crypto industry.
In conclusion, the SEC’s move to hire general attorneys for its Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit in the Division of Enforcement is a clear sign that the agency is taking the regulation of the crypto industry seriously. This move follows a string of regulatory actions against crypto companies, and the ongoing debate about the appropriate level of regulation is likely to continue. The future of the crypto industry in the United States remains uncertain, but it is clear that regulators are not backing down from their efforts to enforce the law.