Season 1 Episode 2:

Basswood Counsel Discusses New SEC Chairman

The appointment of a new SEC Chairman often signals more than a leadership change - it sets the tone for regulatory priorities ahead. In this episode, we examine how Chairman Paul Atkins’ approach may influence enforcement, rulemaking, and capital formation across public and private markets.

On April 21, 2025, Paul S. Atkins was sworn into office as the 34th Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Basswood Counsel attorneys Jephte Lanthia and Haz Mugwagwa sat down to discuss the current regulatory landscape for market participants, including investors,  the crypto industry, the IPO market, and private funds, and what to expect under the Atkins chairmanship.

This episode covers:

  • An overview of the SEC’s mission and structure, and how leadership changes influence regulatory priorities.

  • What Chairman Paul Atkins’ confirmation signals for the balance between investor protection and capital formation.

  • How enforcement discretion may evolve—particularly in crypto, fintech, and emerging asset classes.

  • Why smaller companies and emerging fund managers may see renewed focus on IPO accessibility and fundraising pathways.

  • Key considerations around accredited investor rules and the case for modernizing access to private investments.

  • What private fund managers should watch as the Commission reassesses rules impacting private capital markets.

Host: Jephte Lanthia

Jephte Lanthia advises on corporate and securities, fintech, and compliance, assisting fund managers with investments, securities offerings, broker-dealer regulation, and industry compliance matters.

Host: Hazvinei Mugwagwa

Hazvinei approaches deal-making and transactions like soccer, valuing teamwork and achieving success when every participant brings their best effort to deliver optimal outcomes on and off the field.

If this episode resonates with what you’re working through, contact info@basswoodcounsel.com. We’ll help you bring clarity to the key decisions, risks, and priorities, with the right support across our complementary practice areas.

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