The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has provided interim guidance stating that interfaces for self-custodied wallet transactions will not be treated as brokers if certain conditions are met. This temporary relief, issued by the SEC’s Trading and Markets Division, offers crypto firms a narrower operational pathway while the agency continues its broader review of cryptocurrency regulations.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a staff statement providing temporary relief for crypto firms. The agency will not treat interfaces used for self-custodied wallet transactions as brokers if specific conditions are met.
The SEC’s Trading and Markets Division indicated it “will not take issue” with a company providing such an interface without broker registration. Conditions include not soliciting investors, avoiding transaction discretion, and refraining from giving investment advice. Interfaces must also use neutral sorting methods and maintain transparent policies.
“This interim guidance narrows the pathways for crypto firms to provide wallet-linked features without having to be a broker-dealer,” the statement clarified. It was noted that this is a staff opinion and not an official rule or guidance.
The agency is still examining broader crypto questions. This action follows recent statements on memecoins, stablecoins, and staking.
The statement represents a step toward regulatory clarity for the industry. Crypto companies must continue to monitor and comply with evolving requirements as the environment changes.
