Paul Atkins has been officially sworn in as the new chair of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the agency confirmed in a statement. His appointment follows Senate confirmation earlier this month after being nominated by President Donald Trump in January.

"I am pleased to join with my fellow Commissioners and the agency’s dedicated professionals to advance its mission to facilitate capital formation; maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets; and protect investors," Atkins said in his first statement as chair.

Atkins previously served as an SEC commissioner from 2002 to 2008 and was most recently the chief executive of Patomak Global Partners, a financial services consulting firm. His extensive experience in both public service and the private sector is seen as a strong asset to the regulatory body.

Known for his pro-crypto views, Atkins is expected to bring a more innovation-friendly approach to financial regulation. His leadership may signal an openness to clearer frameworks for digital assets and blockchain technologies, areas that have become increasingly important for investors and institutions alike.

As SEC chair, Atkins will be responsible for guiding the agency’s priorities around investor protection, market oversight, and financial transparency. His return to the Commission comes at a pivotal time as markets continue to evolve and demand stronger regulatory clarity in emerging sectors.

With bipartisan backing during the confirmation process and a track record of supporting market growth and innovation, Atkins is poised to lead the SEC into a new chapter focused on adaptability, accountability, and modernization of the financial regulatory landscape.