The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has removed cryptocurrency as a distinct risk category in its 2026 Examination Priorities, opting for a technology-neutral focus. This shift means that crypto activities will now be addressed under broader categories such as custody, anti-money laundering (AML), and data privacy. The SEC's decision reflects a comprehensive risk management strategy, moving away from sector-specific concerns. While the regulatory pressure on crypto-specific activities may ease, stringent rules on AML and custody remain in place. The change aligns with the SEC's historical trend of focusing on cross-cutting risk topics, ensuring that crypto remains under general investor-protection and market-integrity mandates.