# Trump Nominates a16z Crypto's Policy Chief for CFTC Chair

*Author: Kazu Umemoto*
*Published: Feb 12, 2025*
*Source: https://www.bankless.com/read/trump-nominat-a16z-cryptos-policy-chief-for-cftc-chair*

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President Trump has nominated Brian Quintenz, a16z Crypto’s policy chief and a former CFTC commissioner, to lead the agency. 

## **What’s the Scoop?**
- **Brian Quintenz for CFTC Chair:** Trump has nominated Quintenz, who previously served as a CFTC commissioner from 2017 to 2021 and is currently the Global Head of Policy of a16z Crypto. 
- **Pro-Crypto Shift:** This nomination further highlights Trump’s pro-crypto stance and could lead to a huge regulatory shift in what crypto assets are treated as commodities versus securities.
- **CFTC Chief Responsibilities: **Brain Quintenz will be in charge of managing the day-to-day operations of the agency and the CFTC’s regulatory and enforcement agenda.

## **Bankless Take**
Quintenz’s appointment would mark a major shift for crypto regulation in the U.S. Unlike the SEC’s aggressive enforcement approach, the CFTC has historically taken a more open stance on digital assets. With Quintenz at the helm, the agency could emerge as the industry’s preferred regulator, shifting oversight away from the SEC.

> New incoming CFTC chair is posting on Farcaster [https://t.co/wLs4ZoIm6m](https://t.co/wLs4ZoIm6m)— David Hoffman (@TrustlessState) [February 12, 2025](https://twitter.com/TrustlessState/status/1889736851474333932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)