Blockchain Association CEO Kristin Smith Slams SEC Over Crypto.com Enforcement: “The Crypto Industry Is Here For Good”

Blockchain Association CEO Kristin Smith publicly supported Crypto.com’s lawsuit against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Tuesday, arguing that the regulator’s overreach threatens the crypto industry in the United States.

.@cryptocom's leadership sends a clear message to the SEC: The crypto industry is here for good.

The following statement is attributed to @BlockchainAssn CEO @KMSmithDC: https://t.co/FG99eIkclO pic.twitter.com/7IFLXa6dhD

— Blockchain Association (@BlockchainAssn) October 8, 2024

In a statement posted on X, Smith highlighted that the lawsuit was a critical move to push for the regulatory clarity needed for the U.S. crypto industry to thrive.

Smith’s statement on X read, “Crypto.com’s leadership sends a clear message to the SEC: The crypto industry is here for good.”

She emphasized that the lawsuit is not just a defense for the company but also for the broader U.S. crypto community and its users, as they fight against what she sees as regulatory overreach.

Crypto.com Files Lawsuit Against SEC

The lawsuit came shortly after Crypto.com’s CEO and co-founder, Kris Marszalek, announced that the company would take legal action against the SEC.

🚨 @cryptocom is fighting back after receiving a Wells notice from the @SECGov, arguing the agency is overstepping its authority by treating token sales as securities under federal law. #CryptoRegulations #BlockchainRegulationhttps://t.co/6w0TrjA54I

— Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) October 8, 2024

According to the official complaint, the SEC issued a Wells notice on August 22, accusing Crypto.com of violating U.S. securities law.

Marszalek revealed that Crypto.com decided to sue after receiving the notice, which he described as part of the SEC’s “unjust regulation by enforcement” campaign.

He noted that despite bipartisan indications that future administrations may take a more constructive approach to crypto regulation, the current climate remains challenging for businesses in the space.

“Improper SEC enforcement actions have become a significant challenge for legitimate crypto businesses operating in the U.S.,” Marszalek stated, reflecting the frustrations of many in the industry.

Broader Criticism of the SEC

The SEC has often faced backlash from the crypto community for its regulation-by-enforcement approach.

Major players like Binance and Coinbase have also been targeted by the Commission in recent months.

Many in the blockchain sector argue that this aggressive stance is driving innovation offshore.

Despite this, some political leaders have expressed support for a more balanced regulatory framework.

At a campaign event in Pittsburgh last month, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris emphasized the need for innovation in digital assets while also ensuring consumer protection.

“We will create a safe business environment with consistent and transparent rules of the road,” Harris remarked, acknowledging the growing influence of digital assets in the U.S. economy.

As of now, the SEC has not responded to Crypto.com’s legal action.