05.08.2025 00:44
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has initiated a groundbreaking program, dubbed "Crypto Sprint," to revolutionize the landscape of cryptocurrency trading within the United States. This ambitious undertaking aims to streamline and harmonize the regulation of spot cryptocurrency trading by facilitating its integration onto existing futures exchanges.
Through this initiative, the CFTC intends to significantly advance the integration of digital assets into the existing federal market regulatory framework. Acting Chairwoman Caroline D. Pham announced the launch, emphasizing the Crypto Sprint's role as a crucial first step in implementing the recommendations of the President's Working Group report on digital asset markets. The initiative's primary focus lies in enabling CFTC-registered futures exchanges – designated contract markets (DCMs) – to offer spot contracts for various cryptocurrencies, potentially including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana.
This significant regulatory move is closely coordinated with the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) Project Crypto, showcasing interagency cooperation in addressing the complexities of the digital asset space. Leveraging existing powers granted under the Commodity Exchange Act, the CFTC will ensure that retail commodity trades involving leverage or margin take place exclusively on regulated platforms. Chairwoman Pham's approach builds upon her previous proposals for federal oversight of spot digital asset markets, made in 2022.
The CFTC is actively seeking input from market participants to refine the Crypto Sprint framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on aligning spot crypto contracts with the requirements outlined in section 2(c)(2)(D) of the Commodity Exchange Act and Part 40 of CFTC regulations. The program seeks to clarify the process for listing and selling non-security digital assets on open markets within the bounds of existing federal rules.
Chairwoman Pham lauded the effort, highlighting its alignment with her vision and its contribution to establishing the United States as a global leader in regulated cryptocurrency trading. The CFTC invites public comment on the initiative until August 18th, with all submissions to be made publicly available on the agency's official website. This unprecedented step promises to reshape the U.S. cryptocurrency regulatory landscape.
