SEC 2027 Exam Priorities: Familiar Priorities, Evolving Markets

On October 23, 2026, the SEC Division of Examinations (the Division or Exams) published its fiscal year 2027 examination priorities.¹ In announcing the priorities, Chairman Paul Atkins noted, “Examinations provide critical insight into emerging risks, evolving business practices, and market developments across our financial system.” Exams Director Keith Cassidy likewise emphasized that as markets continue to evolve rapidly, “the examination program must evolve with them.”² As we observed last year, the Division took a back-to-basics approach centered on investor protection and market integrity, and we expect much the same again this year.³

This year’s examination priorities are organized similarly to last year’s, and the core examination themes remain largely intact. The most notable changes reflect developments in the markets rather than a fundamental shift in the Division’s examination philosophy. Such notable developments include the increased availability of private credit and