# DeFi Tokens Surge as SEC Chair Hints at 'Innovation Exemption'

*Author: Bankless*
*Published: Jun 10, 2025*
*Source: https://www.bankless.com/read/defi-tokens-surge-as-sec-chair-hints-at-innovation-exemption*

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Ethereum DeFi tokens surged after SEC Chair Paul Atkins proposed an 'innovation exemption' for the DeFi sector, stirring market optimism.

## **What’s the Scoop?**
- **Ethereum Tokens Rise**: Governance tokens from Ethereum-based DeFi platforms like Uniswap, Aave, and Sky saw significant price increases following the announcement.
- **SEC's Innovation Exemption**: SEC Chair Paul Atkins proposed a framework allowing crypto subsector entities to operate under reduced regulatory scrutiny.
- **Market Reaction**: The proposal sparked optimism during a DeFi-focused roundtable, leading to heavy trading volume and lifting Ethereum's price.
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