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Finance
Technology

SEC Issues Guidance on Crypto Asset Custody by Broker-Dealers

Securities and Exchange Commission
United States
Published Dec 17, 2025

Summary

The Division of Trading and Markets issued guidance on Rule 15c3-3 for broker-dealers that custody crypto asset securities. The Division will not object to a broker-dealer deeming itself to have 'physical possession' of a crypto asset security if it maintains policies, procedures and controls reasonably designed and consistent with industry best practices to protect private keys.

Key Changes

  • Clarified physical possession requirements for digital assets
  • Private key protection standards defined
  • Industry best practices framework established

Affected Industries

Broker-Dealers
Cryptocurrency Custodians
Financial Services

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