CFTC advances crypto regulation plan after CLARITY Act defeat in Senate

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has initiated its backup plan following the failure of the CLARITY Act to advance in the Senate. The Act, which aimed to establish a comprehensive federal framework for crypto-market regulation, was narrowly defeated in a Senate vote on September 15, 2026. As a result, the CFTC is moving forward with a proposed rulemaking under its current statutory powers, focusing on leveraged retail crypto transactions and a new crypto-asset-market exchange category. This development highlights the CFTC’s proactive measures to regulate the crypto market despite the absence of new legislation. Key Takeaways The CFTC’s recent actions suggest uncertainty around the passage of the CLARITY Act, influencing market expectations. Market activity indicates a moderate decrease in the likelihood of the CLARITY Act being signed into law in 2026. The CFTC is utilizing its existing authority to develop federal oversight, consistent with scenarios where the CLARITY Act remains unsigned. What to Watch Observers will be attentive to any further regulatory moves by the CFTC that could impact the crypto market landscape. Key actors such as President Donald Trump, Sen...