SEC Chairman Flags Crypto Custody Rules for Advisers and Funds
Key Takeaways
- 01SEC Chairman Paul Atkins identified crypto custody as a subject for a proposed framework affecting investment advisers and regulated funds.
- 02The potential framework may address use of state trust companies as digital-asset custodians.
- 03The SEC is also considering whether and when advisers or funds could use self-custody.
- 04Detailed requirements and effective dates have not yet been established.
SEC Chairman Paul Atkins said the agency is considering a proposed regulatory framework for crypto custody by investment advisers and regulated funds.
At the Solana Policy Institute Summit on September 14, 2026, Atkins identified several issues the framework may address. These include whether advisers and funds may use state-chartered trust companies as crypto custodians and whether self-custody could be permitted in some circumstances.
The remarks signal that custody remains a central SEC policy issue for firms managing client or fund assets in digital assets. Any future framework could affect how registered investment advisers, investment companies, and their service providers select custodians, structure asset controls, and document safeguarding arrangements. Specific requirements, eligibility standards, and implementation dates have not been established.