TLDR
- CFTC added 35 members including major crypto and exchange CEOs.
- Panel includes Coinbase, Robinhood, Uniswap, Ripple, and Solana leaders.
- Committee also features CME, Nasdaq, ICE, and DTCC executives.
- Event contract firms Kalshi and Polymarket joined the advisory group.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has invited leading crypto executives into a new advisory committee. The move challenges the view that the agency focuses only on Bitcoin. The panel includes CEOs from Coinbase, Robinhood, Uniswap, Ripple, Solana Labs, Kraken, and Polymarket.
If the CFTC “only does Bitcoin,” why did it just invite crypto’s biggest CEOs into the room?https://t.co/j0BA8CryHE
— John Morgan (@johnmorganFL) February 13, 2026
On Feb. 12, the CFTC announced a new 35-member Innovation Advisory Committee. The list also includes leaders from CME Group, Nasdaq, Intercontinental Exchange, DTCC, and ISDA. The group brings together crypto firms and traditional market operators in one forum.
A broader table than Bitcoin alone
The CFTC is known for overseeing derivatives markets, including Bitcoin futures. Many market participants link the agency mainly with Bitcoin products. However, the new committee signals a wider scope.
The Innovation Advisory Committee includes centralized exchanges and decentralized protocol builders. It also includes clearinghouses and market infrastructure providers. These entities manage custody, settlement, and risk controls across markets.
The presence of Uniswap and Chainlink shows engagement with decentralized finance systems. The inclusion of Ripple and Solana Labs connects the panel to major blockchain networks. The structure reflects how digital assets interact with futures and derivatives markets.
The agency stated that the committee will focus on modernization and innovation. The membership suggests attention to digital commodities and new trading models.
Congress and digital commodity oversight
The timing of the announcement aligns with ongoing debates in Congress. Lawmakers are reviewing proposals that could expand the CFTC’s authority over digital commodities. One draft bill advanced in the Senate Agriculture Committee.
If adopted, such legislation would grant the CFTC broader oversight of crypto intermediaries. That would extend beyond Bitcoin futures and into spot digital commodity markets. The agency would then oversee trading venues and market conduct in new areas.
The CFTC and SEC have also issued joint staff statements on coordination. These statements address spot commodity products and venue flexibility. The coordination reflects efforts to manage overlapping jurisdiction.
By inviting major crypto executives, the CFTC gains direct industry input. This approach may assist the agency in drafting rules suited to evolving products. It also creates a structured dialogue between regulators and operators.
Prediction markets move into focus
The committee includes leaders from Kalshi and Polymarket. Both firms operate event-based prediction markets. These platforms have recorded rising trading volumes in recent months.
Public reports show that event contracts tied to sports and politics have gained users. Kalshi reported a $1 billion daily volume milestone during the Super Bowl, according to media coverage. Such figures have drawn regulatory attention.
Event contracts fall within derivatives oversight when structured as commodity futures. The CFTC chair has spoken about drafting clearer rules for these markets. The agency aims to define boundaries and compliance standards.
By placing prediction market executives on the advisory panel, the CFTC positions itself closer to this segment. The step indicates that event contracts are part of its innovation agenda.
Market structure and resource challenges
The advisory group also includes leaders from clearing corporations and exchange operators. These institutions manage risk, margin, and settlement across asset classes. Their participation links crypto markets with established financial systems.
At the same time, reports have noted staffing declines within CFTC enforcement divisions. Growth in crypto and event markets increases oversight demands. Advisory committees can provide technical guidance in complex areas.
The combined presence of crypto founders and Wall Street executives reflects convergence. Digital assets now interact with clearing systems and collateral frameworks used in traditional finance. The committee offers a setting to address these connections.
The question remains central: if the CFTC only handles Bitcoin, why invite a broad set of crypto leaders? The composition of the panel suggests preparation for expanded responsibilities. It also shows that digital asset markets extend beyond a single token.
