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ARTICLE · 13 MAY 2026

The SEC’s New Definition Of Crypto Assets As Securities

Patterson Law Firm
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The landscape of digital assets has long been described as the “Wild West” of finance. However, the frontier is rapidly being fenced in. In a landmark move, the U.S.

United StatesTechnology
Michael Haeberle
Michael Haeberle

The new SEC crypto asset security definition marks a seismic shift in digital finance, increasing the risk of business lawsuits and professional malpractice claims for firms handling blockchain assets.

The landscape of digital assets has long been described as the “Wild West” of finance. However, the frontier is rapidly being fenced in. In a landmark move, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued its first-ever formal definitions regarding which crypto assets qualify as securities. This shift represents a seismic change for digital asset issuers, investors, and the legal teams that represent them.

For businesses operating in or adjacent to the blockchain space, this is no longer a matter of theoretical regulatory debate. It is a matter of immediate compliance and potential liability.

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