Atkins Endorses Crypto in 401(k)s as Regulators Push Rule Alignment

SEC Chair Paul Atkins supports limited crypto in 401(k)s as SEC and CFTC push closer coordination on crypto regulation.

U.S. regulators are moving toward closer coordination as crypto policy debates continue in Congress.

SEC Chair Paul Atkins signaled support for limited crypto exposure in 401(k) plans. His remarks came as the SEC and CFTC convened a harmonization roundtable to align regulatory approaches.

Atkins supports limited crypto access in retirement plans

According to Crypto India, Chair Atkins said regulators are looking to allow people to access crypto via 401(k) retirement funds.

Atkins said crypto could be included in 401(k) plans under strict conditions. He stressed that professional managers and trustees must apply strong safeguards.

He noted that protecting retirees remains the main priority.

JUST IN: 🇺🇸 SEC Chair Atkins says they are “looking to allow people to access crypto via 401(k) retirement funds.” pic.twitter.com/S6Wkd0Iu3Q

— Crypto India (@CryptooIndia) January 29, 2026

He said many Americans already have indirect crypto exposure through managed pension funds.

According to Atkins, extending similar access to 401(k) plans could follow existing oversight models. He compared crypto exposure to private equity held in retirement portfolios.

Atkins also addressed concerns raised by Senator Elizabeth Warren. He acknowledged worries about volatility and losses for workers. However, he said structured access differs from direct retail crypto trading.

Regulators focus on closing gaps through coordination

During the discussion, Atkins described past regulatory gaps between the SEC and CFTC. He said unclear oversight caused some products to struggle.

He added that firms often faced uncertainty about which rules applied.

Atkins said both agencies now aim to work together more closely. He stated that coordination could help firms meet compliance requirements. He also said it may support responsible innovation across crypto markets.

CFTC Chair Mike Selig supported the cooperative approach. He said unclear jurisdictions created challenges for market participants. Selig added that clearer rules could reduce confusion and delays.

Related Reading: CFTC and SEC Unite: Crypto Capital Dream Revealed

Congressional talks continue amid policy delays

The regulators also discussed ongoing talks with Congress. Atkins said the SEC has assisted Senate Agriculture and Banking Committees. While speaking on CNBC’s Squawk Box. He said the agency has provided technical input for several months.

The CLARITY Act remains under review in the Senate. Lawmakers are debating how authority should be shared between regulators. Stablecoin rules and market structure remain key issues.

Selig said the CFTC is ready to act once Congress sets a framework. He stated, “We’re ready, willing, and able to work with whatever they come up with.” Both chairs confirmed a joint public meeting scheduled for today.

The Senate Agriculture Committee has opened a markup of its portion of the CLARITY Act. Chairman John Boozman began the session as negotiations continued.

Regulators said they will enforce any framework approved by lawmakers.

The SEC and CFTC roundtable follows an earlier postponement in January. Officials said continued dialogue remains important. Coordination is expected to continue as policy discussions move forward.