Donald Trump selects Brian Quintenz from a16z as crypto advocate for CFTC leadership position
According to Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terret, Donald Trump has reportedly chosen Brian Quintenz, the current Head of Policy at a16z Crypto, to lead the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
If confirmed, Quintenz will take over from acting Chair Caroline Pham.
Who is Quintenz?
Having served as a CFTC commissioner from 2017 to 2021, Quintenz played a significant role in advancing technological oversight at the agency. He chaired the Technology Advisory Committee and advocated for a self-regulatory body for the crypto sector.
Following his time at the Commission, he joined a16z Crypto, where he has been influential in shaping policy strategies. This venture capital firm was a major player in the 2024 election, contributing $47 million to Fairshake and other political organizations.
His nomination reflects Trump’s broader aim to redefine financial regulation, especially in the crypto and derivatives markets.
If Congress passes market structure legislation giving more authority to the CFTC, Quintenz will be tasked with drafting interpretive rules to govern the enforcement of these new regulations.
The crypto industry has long advocated for CFTC oversight, believing it would offer a more innovation-friendly approach compared to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Industry reaction
While the White House has not officially announced Quintenz’s nomination, key industry figures have already shown support for it.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong and other crypto leaders have welcomed the decision and expressed confidence in Quintenz’s ability to lead the agency.
Crypto attorney Jeremy Hogan pointed out that the CFTC Chair could have more influence in crypto regulation than the SEC’s leadership, and praised Quintenz as a strong choice for the Commission.
Hogan stated: “The head of the CFTC will, eventually, likely be more important to the crypto space than the head of the SEC. And Brian Quintenz is a solid ‘A!'”
Finance lawyer Scott Johnsson highlighted Quintenz’s role in launching CME Bitcoin Futures, which paved the way for Spot Bitcoin ETFs. He believes this history reinforces confidence in Quintenz’s ability to effectively lead the agency.
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