The CFTC is bringing back Bitcoin futures veteran Amir Zaidi as chief of staff amid increasing crypto scrutiny.
Summary
- CFTC Chairman Michael Selig appointed Amir Zaidi chief of staff as the agency’s digital assets mandate grows
- Zaidi previously led the CFTC’s Market Surveillance Division and helped oversee the launch of U.S. Bitcoin futures contracts.
- His return comes as Congress proposes market structure bills that would expand CFTC authority over crypto markets and derivatives.
Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Michael Selig has named Amir Zaidi as the agency’s new chief of staff, the CFTC announced. Zaidi previously played a role in overseeing the launch of Bitcoin futures contracts at the commission.
Zaidi served at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission from 2010 to 2019, according to agency records. During his tenure, he participated in the launch of Bitcoin futures, the first federally regulated cryptocurrency product in the United States. He was appointed head of the Market Surveillance Department, where he oversaw contract certification and implementation.
Before returning to the CFTC, Zaidi’s professional background was global head of compliance at a major broker-dealer.
Chairman Selig cited Zaidi’s background in a statement, noting his role in the launch of Bitcoin futures contracts and describing him as instrumental in that effort.
The appointment comes as the CFTC’s role in regulating digital assets expands. Digital asset market structure legislation is currently moving through Congress, with proposals that would grant the CFTC additional authority over cryptocurrency markets.
The agency’s oversight responsibilities are expected to increase as lawmakers work to establish regulatory guidelines for the digital assets sector. Pending congressional bills would expand the CFTC’s regulatory powers over cryptocurrency products and markets.
Zaidi stated that during this period of market transformation, he would focus on promoting innovation while overseeing regulation.
The cryptocurrency industry has seen greater mainstream adoption of digital asset products in recent years. Market participants have called for regulatory clarity as the industry continues to expand and integrate with traditional financial markets.
