CFTC Welcomes Back Amir Zaidi as Chief of Staff Amidst Flourishing US Crypto Regulation
The Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has announced the return of Amir Zaidi as its Chief of Staff, a key policymaker who oversaw the launch of regulated Bitcoin futures in the US. Zaidi’s second stint at the CFTC comes at a time when the US crypto regulation landscape is rapidly evolving. In an announcement on Wednesday, CFTC Chairman Michael Selig emphasized the wealth of experience Zaidi will bring to the commission, particularly as Congress prepares to pass legislation governing the digital asset market.
Zaidi previously worked at the CFTC between 2010 and 2019, holding various roles, including director of the Market Oversight Division. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in establishing a regulated Bitcoin futures market in the United States. The introduction of regulated Bitcoin futures on the CBOE in 2017 marked a significant milestone in legitimizing Bitcoin, paving the way for mainstream acceptance. Zaidi’s expertise in the government and financial services industries will be invaluable as the CFTC develops regulations for the rapidly evolving commodities markets.
Zaidi’s Experience and Expertise
Before returning to the CFTC, Zaidi worked as head of global compliance at major broker-dealer TP ICAP, further solidifying his experience in the financial services industry. His extensive background in government and finance will enable him to provide valuable insights as the CFTC navigates the complex landscape of crypto regulation. As the US prepares to take a more significant role in shaping the global crypto market, Zaidi’s expertise will be essential in developing useful regulations that balance innovation with investor protection.
US lawmakers are expected to take up the market structure surcharge in January, and the CFTC is likely to play a key role in crypto regulation and supervision in 2026. With Zaidi on board, the CFTC will have a seasoned expert who can provide guidance on the development of regulations that will shape the future of the crypto market. CFTC Chairman Selig has vowed to support the current administration’s goal of “solidifying the US as the crypto capital of the world,” and Zaidi’s return is seen as a significant step towards achieving this objective.
Crypto-Friendly Figures in Government Agencies
The return of Zaidi to the CFTC marks another crypto-friendly figure taking on key positions in government agencies. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), under the leadership of Chairman Paul Atkins, has also taken a more friendly approach to the crypto market, with a surge in crypto exchange-traded funds entering the market and resolving long-standing legal disputes. As the US crypto regulation landscape continues to evolve, the presence of experienced and crypto-friendly figures like Zaidi will be crucial in shaping the future of the industry.
Source: Michael Selig
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