The Commodity Futures Trading Commission joined the interpretation, saying its staff will administer the Commodity Exchange Act consistent with the SEC's guidance. The interpretation covers the regulatory treatment of digital commodities, digital collectibles, digital tools, stablecoins, and digital securities under federal law.
"After more than a decade of uncertainty, this interpretation will provide market participants with a clear understanding of how the Commission treats crypto assets under federal securities laws," Atkins said. "This is what regulatory agencies are supposed to do: draw clear lines in clear terms."
The guidance addresses how non-security crypto assets may become subject to investment contract analysis and how they may cease to be subject to such treatment. Atkins also acknowledged "that investment contracts can come to an end," the SEC said. The agency said the interpretation also covers airdrops, protocol mining, protocol staking, and the wrapping of non-security crypto assets.
CFTC Chairman Michael S. Selig said "American builders, innovators, and entrepreneurs have awaited clear guidance on the status of crypto assets under the federal securities and commodity laws," declaring "the wait is over."
Atkins described the guidance as serving as "an important bridge for entrepreneurs and investors as Congress works to advance bipartisan market structure legislation," according to the SEC.
The interpretation will be published on SEC.gov and in the Federal Register, the agency said.