The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has introduced a comprehensive guide for investors exploring the world of crypto assets. FINRA is a non-governmental organization that oversees brokerage firms and their registered representatives in the U.S.
Commenting on the new FINRA crypto section, Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett shared on social media platform X on Tuesday:
FINRA has added a new section on crypto to its website. While there is no mention of the term ‘crypto asset security’ (except in a link to a 2023 SEC Investor Alert in the ‘Learn More’ section), FINRA still notes that a crypto asset itself can be considered a security in addition to a crypto asset transaction.
“The section provides an in-depth overview of the various types of crypto assets, how they can be bought and sold, and the potential risks associated with them. It also links to other crypto-related resources on its own website as well as other regulators like the SEC, CFTC, and FTC,” she added.
FINRA explains the various types of crypto assets, including native tokens like bitcoin and ether, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and stablecoins, highlighting their distinct characteristics and potential risks. The regulator also discusses the challenges associated with unregistered offerings, decentralized finance (defi) protocols, and trading on platforms that lack regulatory oversight.
The organization underscores the importance of conducting thorough research before investing and warns against decisions driven by speculative trends or fear of missing out (FOMO). Investors are reminded to utilize resources like Brokercheck to verify the registration and credibility of broker-dealers involved in crypto transactions. Additionally, FINRA emphasizes vigilance against scams, fraud, and cybersecurity risks that continue to pervade the crypto landscape. FINRA wrote:
Avoid investing based on FOMO — the fear of missing out.
This followed the announcement of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Gary Gensler’s resignation, effective Jan. 20, 2025, coinciding with President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Gensler’s tenure is marked by strict regulatory actions against the cryptocurrency sector, including enforcement against major crypto exchanges like Binance and Coinbase. In contrast, Trump has shifted to a supportive stance on cryptocurrencies, pledging to make the U.S. a global leader in the industry and considering the establishment of a strategic bitcoin reserve.
