CFTC Taps Mike Passalacqua as Senior Advisor on Crypto Regulation

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has brought on Mike Passalacqua, a seasoned attorney with deep expertise in cryptocurrency and blockchain litigation, as Senior Advisor. The appointment signals the regulator’s commitment to strengthening its technical and legal capabilities in overseeing digital asset markets during a period of rapid industry evolution.

Deep Crypto and Blockchain Credentials

Mike Passalacqua brings substantial experience from multiple sectors within the digital asset ecosystem. Previously, he was counsel at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, an elite international law firm known for its work on complex financial and regulatory matters. Beyond his law firm background, Passalacqua also held the position of Assistant General Counsel at a cryptocurrency asset capital markets firm, where he focused on regulatory compliance and trading operations—giving him practical insight into how crypto businesses navigate the regulatory environment.

Strengthening CFTC’s Regulatory Capabilities

This appointment reflects the CFTC’s broader effort to attract specialized talent capable of addressing the complexities of digital asset regulation. As digital markets continue to expand and evolve, the commission requires advisors who understand both the technical underpinnings of blockchain technology and the nuanced legal challenges that emerge. Mike Passalacqua’s background in both securities law and crypto asset operations positions him to advise on policy issues ranging from market manipulation prevention to custody standards—critical areas where regulatory clarity remains a work in progress across the industry.