SEC’s Hester Peirce Urges Crypto Community to Take Responsibility

At Bitcoin 2025 in Las Vegas, U.S. SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, known as “Crypto Mom,” emphasized the importance of accountability within the crypto community. Addressing libertarian-minded crypto enthusiasts, she criticized those who advocate for minimal government interference yet seek bailouts when markets crash. “Let’s have some consistency,” Peirce said. “If you want freedom to make your own choices, accept the consequences when things go wrong—learn and move forward.”

Peirce highlighted that many crypto tokens do not qualify as securities, and thus, platforms trading them may not need SEC registration unless they’re dealing in traditional securities. She noted that the SEC is carving out areas like memecoins and certain stablecoins from its enforcement priorities, indicating a more focused approach to regulation. However, she also stressed that if the crypto industry wants a dedicated federal regulator, it’s up to Congress to legislate that role into existence.

When asked whether a U.S. federal crypto regulator is necessary, one attendee shouted “NO!”—a sentiment Peirce acknowledged with a smile.

On memecoins, Peirce reiterated the need for personal responsibility: “If you want to speculate, go ahead. But don’t come crying to the government if it goes wrong.” She also commented on companies holding digital assets in their treasuries, affirming that as long as disclosures are transparent, firms are free to make those decisions.

Peirce’s remarks underscore a growing push for maturity and self-regulation within the crypto space, urging participants to embrace the risks that come with financial freedom. With evolving SEC guidance and ongoing legislative efforts in Congress, the regulatory future of crypto remains in flux—but personal responsibility, according to Peirce, must remain constant.