Trump Expected to Announce New SEC Chair as Early as Tomorrow

President-elect Donald Trump is poised to reveal his choice for the next SEC Chair, potentially as early as tomorrow, according to a report from FOX Business journalist Eleanor Terrett. The transition team is actively evaluating candidates to lead the agency following the departure of Gary Gensler, whose term concludes on January 20, 2025.

Paul Atkins Emerges as Front-Runner in SEC Chair Race

Market sentiment, particularly from prediction platform Kalshi, positions Paul Atkins as the leading contender for the role. A former SEC commissioner, Atkins has garnered a 70% probability of appointment, significantly outpacing Brian Brooks, who trails with a 20% likelihood.

Atkins is recognized for his pro-innovation stance, particularly regarding digital assets and fintech. He has consistently criticized the SEC’s current “regulation-by-enforcement” strategy under Gensler, advocating instead for transparent and innovation-friendly regulatory frameworks. His potential appointment signals a shift toward more balanced crypto regulations, fostering clarity and growth within the industry.

Other Contenders in the Running

While Atkins leads the prediction polls, other candidates remain in consideration. These include:

• Mark Uyeda, current SEC Commissioner, known for his expertise in securities law.
• Dan Gallagher, Robinhood’s Chief Legal Officer and former SEC Commissioner.
• Heath Tarbert, former CFTC Chair with a robust regulatory track record.

Each of these candidates brings unique strengths to the table, reflecting the diverse priorities of Trump’s transition team.

The End of an Era for Gary Gensler

Gary Gensler’s tenure as the SEC Chair will officially end on January 20, 2025. His leadership has been marked by aggressive oversight of the cryptocurrency sector, including numerous enforcement actions against intermediaries for fraud and registration violations. Gensler’s exit marks a pivotal moment for the SEC, as the agency prepares for potential shifts in regulatory philosophy under new leadership.

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