SEC Refines Stablecoin Accounting Standards in Regulatory Modernization Push

The US Securities and Exchange Commission has updated its staff guidance, proposing that USD stablecoins meeting specific safeguards—such as guaranteed redemption and asset-backed stability—may be recognized as cash equivalents in accounting practices.

This interim guidance aligns with SEC Chair Paul Atkins’ broader agenda to streamline crypto regulations. Earlier this year, the commission excluded certain stablecoins from securities classification and waived registration requirements for issuers.

Atkins’ newly announced Project Crypto seeks to adapt securities rules for blockchain integration, building on recommendations from the President’s Working Group. Bernstein analysts view the framework as a pivotal step in establishing US leadership in digital asset regulation.