Bitcoin Futures Veteran Amir Zaidi Returns to CFTC as Chief of Staff

GateUser-afe07a92 · 2026-01-01T13:20:23+00:00

Amir Zaidi has been appointed Chief of Staff at the CFTC, focusing on regulatory oversight of cryptocurrency as Congress advances legislation to expand the agency's authority over digital assets.

GateUser-afe07a92

2026-01-01 13:20:23

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Source: Cryptonews Original Title: Bitcoin futures veteran Amir Zaidi returns to CFTC as chief of staff Original Link: https://crypto.news/bitcoin-futures-veteran-amir-zaidi-returns-to-cftc-as-chief-of-staff/ Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chair Michael Selig has appointed Amir Zaidi as the agency’s new Chief of Staff, marking a significant move as the CFTC’s digital asset mandate expands.

Background

Zaidi previously served at the CFTC from 2010 to 2019, where he played a key role in overseeing the launch of Bitcoin futures contracts—the first federally regulated cryptocurrency product in the United States. During his tenure, he led the Division of Market Oversight and oversaw contract certification and deployment.

Before returning to the CFTC, Zaidi served as global head of compliance at a major broker-dealer.

Expanding Regulatory Authority

The appointment occurs amid significant legislative developments. Congress is advancing market-structure bills that would expand CFTC authority over cryptocurrency markets and derivatives. These proposals aim to establish clearer regulatory guidelines for the digital asset sector as it continues to integrate with traditional financial markets.

Focus on Innovation and Oversight

Zaidi stated he would focus on promoting innovation while maintaining regulatory oversight during this period of market transformation. The cryptocurrency industry’s increased mainstream adoption of digital asset products has prompted market participants to call for regulatory clarity.

Chairman Selig highlighted Zaidi’s instrumental role in the Bitcoin futures launch, emphasizing his expertise as crucial for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.

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Token_Sherpa

· 2h ago

amir zaidi back at cftc? honestly, the revolving door between crypto and traditional finance keeps spinning... at least he knows his way around futures mechanics, won't have to explain basis spreads to him like we're talking to kindergarteners

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FrontRunFighter

· 5h ago

zaidi back at cftc? ngl this smells like regulatory capture waiting to happen. futures vet knows all the dark forest plays, now he's got the keys to the kingdom... wonder what "transparency" means when the house always wins

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MetaverseLandlord

· 5h ago

Whoa, did Zaidi return to the CFTC? Looks like regulators are about to make a move.

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AirdropHunter007

· 5h ago

Wow, Amir Zaidi returns to the CFTC as Chief of Staff. What does this mean? Is regulation about to get serious?

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LiquidatedThrice

· 5h ago

The dark history is back again. This time, entering the CFTC as Chief of Staff? These people in the crypto circle really turn around and become elites within the system.

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WhaleSurfer