Paul Atkins at Bitcoin Conference Says Clarity Act Is the Only Thing That Stops Next Gensler

SEC Chair Paul Atkins, speaking at a Bitcoin conference, said a tokenization exemption is “weeks” away and stressed that only legislation — notably the Clarity Act — can lock in lasting legal certainty for crypto. He warned political risk is the main threat: a future administration could reverse recent pro-crypto progress unless Congress enacts statute. Senate movement is expected in May with a possible vote in June; the bill would then need House approval and the president’s signature. Atkins highlighted tokenised equities as a near‑term market opportunity that could cut intermediaries and settlement fees, but noted stakeholders with incumbent business models may resist. Market impact: imminent regulatory clarity could be bullish for tokenization projects and Bitcoin-linked investment flows, but significant political and legislative hurdles keep the outlook cautious.