After months of anticipation, Paul Atkins has been confirmed as the new Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Known for his business acumen and ties to the cryptocurrency industry, Atkins’ appointment offers a unique perspective on financial regulation. Here are five key insights into his background: 1) **Legal Expertise:** Atkins holds a law degree from Vanderbilt University School of Law and has practiced as a lawyer across corporate transactions, public offerings, and mergers before entering private sector finance. This experience also includes government work at firms in the fintech space, where he is noted for introducing functional regulations. 2) **Early SEC Service:** Paul Atkins’ appointment was initiated by President George W. Bush and saw him appointed to the SEC commission in 2002. Notably, he opposed the Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX), a significant piece of legislation following major financial scandals like Enron. His view on SOX regulations is noteworthy for its potential impact on corporate oversight and transparency in the financial industry. 3) **Deregulatory Environment:** Atkins’ tenure saw the SEC adopt a deregulatory stance, which has been attributed to contributing factors in the global financial crisis of 2008. His appointment has reignited discussions about the need for appropriate regulatory measures in the face of emerging risks and market volatility. 4) **SEC Leadership and FTX Involvement:** Atkins left the SEC in 2008 and founded Patomak Global Partners, a consultancy firm advising major asset management companies. He later served as an advisor to FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange that faced bankruptcy in 2022. His work with FTX highlights his expertise in digital asset management and adds complexity to his role as SEC chairman. 5) **Crypto Advocacy:** Throughout his career, Atkins has been outspoken about cryptocurrencies and their regulation. He served on the Token Alliance, a prominent lobbying group for crypto companies, and his personal investments in cryptocurrency further demonstrate his interest in the space. This experience and his advocacy for clear regulatory frameworks make him an influential figure in shaping the future of digital finance. 5) **Looking Ahead:** The financial industry anticipates Atkins’s leadership will significantly influence the future direction of the SEC. His focus on blockchain technology, crypto exchanges, and the development of a robust regulatory framework for cryptocurrency is expected to shape the course of US regulations and international market forces.