Financial Literacy Lessons from SEC with a Crypto Twist
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has unveiled a series of educational events aimed at underrepresented demographics, including high school students, military personnel, senior citizens, and Native Americans. Interestingly, the financial watchdog’s agenda includes advising attendees to “exercise caution” with cryptocurrencies.
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On April 3, the SEC announced its dedication to fostering financial literacy and ensuring “inclusive investing.” However, the regulator seems to link cryptocurrencies to scams and fraud, as it intends to provide guidance on “how to dodge falling prey to fraud” involving digital assets during these events.
The SEC's tongue-in-cheek approach references its March 23 alert, wherein it encouraged individuals to exercise caution when evaluating investments in crypto projects that might be classified as securities:
Only risk money you can afford to lose entirely with any speculative investment.
Though the U.S. government has advocated financial literacy initiatives, such as National Financial Capability Month since 2003, the SEC's recent announcement arrives amidst criticism over its seemingly paradoxical position on crypto enterprises. While the regulator asserts a desire for firms to “come in and talk,” it simultaneously pursues enforcement actions.
Case in point, U.S.-based crypto exchange Coinbase disclosed on March 22 that it had received a Wells notice from the SEC after engaging in over 30 meetings with representatives across nine months. Additionally, SEC Chair Gary Gensler has requested a $2.4 billion budget for the 2024 fiscal year, arguing that the regulator requires “new tools, expertise, and resources” to tackle misconduct in the crypto industry.
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