Summary:
• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commissioner Hester Peirce discussed the possibility of a crypto legal framework in the United States, noting that not all uses are financial.
• She believes any framework should take a reserved approach but allow enough clarity for people to try things out.
• Peirce also noted that the SEC should rethink its approach to innovation and avoid coming up with enforcement actions later on.
Hester Peirce on Crypto Laws
Securities and Exchange Commissioner Hester Peirce discussed a possible United States crypto legal framework, giving a reminder that not all uses are financial.
Protection Without Over-Regulation
Peirce believes any legal framework should take “a reserved approach” but include “enough clarity that people feel that they can try things.” She argued against regulating the technology as though every use is financial, emphasizing other uses such as enabling people to interact without requiring a centralized entity.
“Appropriate” Approaches to Innovation
In her opinion, the SEC should rethink its approach to innovation and come up with laws that don’t restrict new uses of crypto and blockchain technologies. The commissioner also advised the industry to pay attention to counterparty risks and conduct self-regulation.
“Crypto Mom” Advocating for Change
Asked about her advocacy for cryptocurrency, Peirce said she thinks the SEC “can do better” than it currently is. She believes if she can’t speak freely in her position at the regulator, then there is no reason for her being there.
“Reserved” Regulatory Framework Needed
Summing up her thoughts on how regulators should approach crypto laws in the United States, Peirce said it needs to be “reserved,” while still providing enough clarity so people feel comfortable experimenting with cryptocurrency projects.