What is the SEC?

Why does a US agency show up so often in crypto news? Because some tokens, or the way they’re sold, can fall under US rules for securities, such as stocks and bonds.

The SEC was founded in 1934. Its responsibilities include protecting investors, overseeing securities markets and tackling violations of the relevant laws. It isn’t the authority that controls every cryptocurrency everywhere in the world.

Think of a company that issues tokens representing its shares. Using a blockchain instead of a conventional register doesn’t make its legal obligations disappear. Likewise, a token that isn’t a security in itself may be sold as part of an investment contract. What counts are the features and circumstances of the transaction, not just what the token is called.

Why it matters

An SEC action can affect how a token is offered, the services of an exchange or US customers’ access to certain products. These developments can also affect users outside the US when they use the same platform.

We always separate an allegation from a final court ruling. The SEC going after a company doesn’t mean its claims have already been upheld by a court.

What to watch out for

Holding or trading crypto doesn’t by itself create an obligation to register with the SEC or pay it any fee. Activities with a US connection, however, may raise issues under US law. Also, a rule proposal isn’t a rule in force yet, and a regulatory approval is no guarantee of returns.

In Greece

The SEC isn’t the Hellenic Capital Market Commission (HCMC) and doesn’t determine your taxes. For crypto services in Greece, the main framework is the EU’s MiCA regulation, with national implementing measures in Law 5193/2025. Depending on the case, the Hellenic Capital Market Commission and the Bank of Greece are the competent authorities. Some financial instruments in token form fall under other financial legislation instead of MiCA. Any specific cross-border activity needs an individual legal review.