CFTC Announces Formation of New Innovation Task Force

CFTC Press Releases

Published March 24th, 2026

Detected March 25th, 2026

Summary

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has announced the formation of a new Innovation Task Force. This task force will focus on developing clear rules for innovators in areas such as crypto assets, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and prediction markets within U.S. derivatives markets.

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What changed

CFTC Chairman Michael S. Selig has announced the establishment of a new Innovation Task Force, dedicated to creating clear regulatory guidelines for novel products and technologies in U.S. derivatives markets. The task force will focus on crypto assets, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and prediction markets, working in conjunction with the Innovation Advisory Committee and other federal agencies like the SEC.

This initiative aims to foster responsible innovation and ensure American market participants remain competitive. While this is an announcement of a new internal task force and not a new rule or enforcement action, it signals the CFTC's focus on emerging technologies. Compliance officers should note the areas of focus for potential future regulatory developments and ensure their firms are aware of the CFTC's evolving stance on these technologies.

What to do next

Monitor CFTC communications regarding the Innovation Task Force's activities and outputs.
Assess current and planned use of crypto assets, AI, and prediction markets against evolving regulatory frameworks.

Source document (simplified)

Release Number 9201-26

Chairman Selig Announces Formation of New Innovation Task Force

March 24, 2026

WASHINGTON — Today, Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Michael S. Selig launched the Innovation Task Force, which is dedicated to advancing clear rules of the road for American innovators building novel products and technologies within U.S. derivatives markets.

The Innovation Task Force, in partnership with the Innovation Advisory Committee, will work with the Commission to develop a clear regulatory framework for innovators focused on: (i) crypto assets and blockchain technologies; (ii) artificial intelligence and autonomous systems; and (iii) prediction markets and event contracts.

“By establishing a clear regulatory framework for innovators building on the new frontier of finance, we can foster responsible innovation at home and ensure American market participants are not left on the sidelines,” said Chairman Selig.

The Innovation Task Force is charged with executing on the Commission’s innovation agenda, and will coordinate with federal agencies and departments, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and its Crypto Task Force, on innovation initiatives.

Michael J. Passalacqua, senior advisor to the Chairman, will lead the Innovation Task Force.

-CFTC-