In a landmark decision dated September 30, 2025, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has articulated a clear path for how investment advisors can manage cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum through state trust companies. By issuing a “no-action” letter, the SEC has resolved a long‑standing ambiguity about the custody of digital assets at the federal level, providing a regulatory green light that financial institutions have been eagerly anticipating.
How Will State Trusts Influence Crypto Custody?
The SEC’s directive underlines that state trust companies are deemed suitable custodians, as per the 1940 Investment Company Act. These trusts are now allowed to hold not only cash but also cryptocurrencies, treating them with the same legal protections as conventional cash instruments. This decision is seen as a substantial shift in regulatory strategy, offering much‑needed reassurance to participants in the cryptocurrency markets.
What Are the Political Implications of the SEC’s Decision?
Following the SEC’s move, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming showed her support via social media, pointing to her state’s advanced regulations established in 2020. These rules have been at the forefront of cryptocurrency trust development, and Lummis views the SEC’s decision as a validation of Wyoming’s regulatory framework. This could potentially influence broader national acceptance of similar strategies.
The ruling stemmed from a formal request by the law firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, which sought assurance that investment advisors utilizing state trusts would remain free from sanctions. The SEC’s softer regulatory approach marks a stark departure from previous enforcement actions, notably during the Operation Choke Point 2.0, which stymied financial services for crypto companies.
State trusts bring valuable attributes to cryptocurrency custody, acting as capable handlers of its intricate processes. The recognition of these institutions could widen cryptocurrency accessibility for institutional investors, paving the way for the introduction of new financial products that were previously stalled due to regulatory uncertainty.
In effect, the SEC’s action is a pivotal advance in investor protection and legal certainty in the burgeoning field of digital finance. Market experts foresee this as the beginning of strengthened ties between financial entities and cryptocurrencies, facilitating a seamless integration in the fiscal landscape.
“The SEC’s guidance is a welcome development, confirming our state’s proactive approach to cryptocurrency regulation,” stated Senator Cynthia Lummis.
- •The SEC’s “no-action” letter offers clarity for crypto custody.
- •State trust companies can serve as qualified custodians for digital assets.
- •This decision may catalyze more comprehensive financial offerings.
- •Federal scrutiny on crypto firms could lessen with this stance.
- •Potential for new financial products increases with regulatory assurance.
With this significant regulatory decision, the SEC has demonstrated an openness to integrating cryptocurrencies more profoundly within the financial sector, easing regulatory concerns and reinforcing trust. This leap could accelerate the maturation of the cryptocurrency industry and demystify the asset space for traditional investors.