Trump Nominates Brian Quintenz from a16z Crypto as CFTC Chair

Donald Trump has reportedly tapped Brian Quintenz to take the helm at CFTC, according to Bloomberg and official records sent to Congress. Quintenz, who previously served as a CFTC commissioner under Trump, now heads crypto policy at a16z.

With a strong regulatory background, Quintenz worked at the CFTC from 2017 to 2021, during which he set up the Technology Advisory Committee. He has long argued that a self-regulatory body for crypto companies would be a game changer in keeping the industry in check without stifling growth.

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With experience spanning both regulatory agencies and venture capital, Quintenz is seen as a key figure in redefining the regulation of the massive $400 trillion derivatives market.

At present, Caroline Pham is acting Chair of the CFTC, having been appointed by President Donald Trump after Rostin Behnam stepped down.

Meanwhile, Kristin Smith, CEO of the Blockchain Association, highlighted Quintenz’s deep knowledge of both crypto markets and financial regulation, calling him an ideal choice to lead the agency. Analysts see this appointment as a pivotal step toward reinforcing the CFTC’s influence over cryptocurrencies and derivatives trading.

Trump’s regulatory shake-up doesn’t stop with Brian Quintenz. He’s also eyeing Jonathan Gould for Comptroller of the Currency and Jonathan McKernan for the top spot at the CFPB. These nominations are part of a bigger effort to modernize financial markets and push for innovation, which could lead to a major shift in how digital assets are regulated in the U.S.