SEC Outlines 2025 Examination Priorities, Focusing on Traditional Themes and Emerging Technologies.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its examination priorities for 2025, maintaining focus on familiar areas while addressing emerging market trends. The priorities include capital markets, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, anti-money-laundering controls, and crypto assets. The SEC's enforcement division has grown significantly over the past three decades, now employing over 1,100 staff members with specialized capabilities in various areas.

While the priorities remain largely consistent with previous years, the SEC has emphasized its interest in dual registrants and the use of artificial intelligence. The agency has already taken action on cybersecurity, fining four companies $7 million for downplaying breaches related to the SolarWinds hack.

Regarding crypto assets, the SEC plans to focus on the offer, sale, recommendation, advice, and trading of crypto assets that are offered and sold as securities or related products. The agency will examine whether registrants meet and follow standards of conduct when dealing with crypto assets and review their compliance practices, risk disclosures, and operational resiliency.

Report by The National Law Journal