The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has released its 2026 examination priorities, notably omitting specific references to crypto assets. This marks a departure from previous years where the SEC highlighted risks associated with crypto issuance, trading, advice, and ETFs. The change is perceived as a potential softening of the regulatory stance towards cryptocurrencies. For 2026, the SEC will concentrate on traditional compliance areas such as fiduciary duties, custody, and client information protection. Additionally, the agency will address emerging technology risks, including AI and automation tools, and assess institutions' capabilities in handling cyber incidents, including ransomware attacks.