CFTC launches “scalable” program

The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has launched a new program called Future-Proof to modernize its rules for crypto assets and prediction markets.

CFTC Chairman Mike Selig said the agency’s current regulations were originally written for agricultural futures and are no longer suited to today’s rapidly growing crypto and fintech markets. Selig explained that prediction markets and digital assets have grown rapidly, but clear regulations have not followed. Crypto is now a multi-billion dollar global industry, and the CFTC believes that updated and transparent rules are necessary to protect investors while allowing innovation to flourish.

Today, I am launching the “Future-Proof” initiative at @CFTC.

We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in the evolution of American financial markets. The CFTC must be equipped to serve the markets of the future.

Read my full opinion piece in today’s @washingtonpost: /1

– Mike Selig (@ChairmanSelig) January 20, 2026

To guide this process, the agency will rely on its Innovation Advisory Committee, which will make policy recommendations on crypto, prediction markets, and other emerging asset classes. Selig also criticized the CFTC’s past approach of relying primarily on enforcement actions. As part of the Future-Proof initiative, the agency wants to move toward a balanced regulatory strategy that protects markets without slowing innovation.

CFTC pushes for clearer crypto rules

Selig also stressed that the rules must be clear, flexible and designed for modern financial systems. The program also recognizes the growing role of artificial intelligence and blockchain in finance. These technologies now allow trading 24/7. For example, the New York Stock Exchange announced plans to use blockchain for its tokenization platform, enabling trading of stocks and ETFs around the clock.

Looking ahead, Selig said the CFTC must prepare for broader responsibilities as the crypto market continues to grow. Under the CLARITY bill, the CFTC and SEC would share increased oversight of the industry. Selig believes the CFTC is well-positioned to regulate blockchain-based assets.

The announcement follows years of tension between US regulators and cryptocurrency companies. Industry leaders, including Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, have argued that unclear rules in the United States have slowed innovation and forced some companies to set up operations abroad. Selig said the CFTC would move away from “regulation by enforcement” and instead introduce goal-specific rules through public consultation.

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