U.S. SEC Chair Gary Gensler, known for his antagonistic stance toward the cryptocurrency sector, announced he will resign effective noon on January 20, coinciding with Donald Trump's inauguration as president. Gensler will not only step down from his role as chair but will also leave the commission entirely, foregoing his position as a commissioner. His tenure since April 2021 was characterized by contentious enforcement actions against prominent cryptocurrency platforms such as Binance and Coinbase, which he accused of operating as unregistered securities brokers. Gensler had begun approving spot bitcoin and ether exchange-traded products, although he initially opposed them. His resignation leads to a commission comprising equal members from both parties until Trump appoints a new chair, creating uncertainty for future SEC regulatory directions in the evolving crypto market. In his farewell statement, Gensler thanked staff and emphasized the SEC's mission of protecting investors.

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