Paul S. Atkins has been sworn in as the 34th Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Nominated by President Donald J. Trump on January 20, 2025, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 9, 2025, Chairman Atkins expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him. He emphasized the importance of facilitating capital formation, maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and protecting investors. His goal is to ensure that the U.S. remains the premier destination for investment and business.
Before rejoining the SEC, Atkins served as the CEO of Patomak Global Partners, a company he founded in 2009. During this time, he contributed to developing best practices for the digital asset sector and acted as an independent director and non-executive chairman of BATS Global Markets, Inc. from 2012 to 2015.
Chairman Atkins initially joined the SEC as a Commissioner under President George W. Bush from 2002 to 2008. During his tenure, he championed transparency, consistency, and cost-benefit analysis within the agency. He also represented the SEC at various international financial meetings.
Prior to his role as Commissioner, Atkins worked as a consultant specializing in securities and investment management. Earlier in his career, he served on the staff of two SEC chairmen and began his professional journey as a lawyer in New York, focusing on corporate transactions.
Chairman Atkins holds a J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law and an A.B. from Wofford College. Originally from North Carolina, he resides in Florida with his wife Sarah and their three sons.
— new from SEC.gov