Catenaa, Sunday, January 18, 2026- Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Michael Selig announced the creation of a newly renamed Innovation Advisory Committee to guide US policy on digital assets, crypto markets and prediction markets as the agency refines its regulatory role.
The committee replaces the former Technology Advisory Committee and reflects a shift toward addressing blockchain-based markets, artificial intelligence and cloud-driven financial infrastructure.
The CFTC said the panel will advise on how emerging technologies affect derivatives markets and how regulation should adapt to new trading models.
Selig plans to nominate the CEO Innovation Council as the committee’s initial members.
The group includes executives from prediction market platforms Polymarket and Kalshi, crypto exchange Gemini and market operator Nasdaq. Public nominations for additional members are open through January 31.
The move comes as Congress considers legislation that could broaden the CFTC’s authority over digital asset markets.
Lawmakers are debating a market structure bill that would clarify oversight responsibilities between federal regulators and formally expand the agency’s jurisdiction over certain crypto products.
The CFTC has already signaled a larger role. In late 2025, it allowed the first regulated exchange to list spot crypto products, marking a step beyond its traditional focus on futures and derivatives.
Prediction markets are also drawing attention. These platforms allow users to trade contracts tied to future events, including elections and policy outcomes.
Reports of insider trading and politically sensitive wagers have prompted lawmakers to explore restrictions on some forms of activity.
The advisory committee is expected to influence how the CFTC approaches both crypto trading venues and prediction markets as federal policy evolves.
