Bitcoin futures veteran Amir Zaidi returns to CFTC as chief of staff

The CFTC brings back Bitcoin futures veteran Amir Zaidi as chief of staff amid expanding crypto oversight.
Summary

• CFTC Chair Michael Selig named Amir Zaidi chief of staff as the agency’s digital asset mandate grows.
• Zaidi previously led the CFTC’s Division of Market Oversight and helped oversee the launch of U.S. Bitcoin futures contracts.
• His return comes as Congress advances market-structure bills that would expand CFTC authority over crypto markets and derivatives.

Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chair Michael Selig has appointed Amir Zaidi as the agency’s new Chief of Staff, the CFTC announced. Zaidi previously played a role in overseeing the launch of Bitcoin futures contracts at the commission.

Zaidi served at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission from 2010 to 2019, according to agency records. During his tenure, he participated in the launch of Bitcoin futures, the first federally regulated cryptocurrency product in the United States. He was appointed to lead the Division of Market Oversight, where he oversaw contract certification and deployment.

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

Chairman Selig cited Zaidi’s background in a statement, noting his role in the launch of Bitcoin futures contracts and describing him as instrumental in that effort.

The appointment occurs as the CFTC’s role in regulating digital assets expands. Legislation on digital asset market structure is currently progressing through Congress, with proposals that would grant the CFTC additional authority over cryptocurrency markets.

The agency’s oversight responsibilities are expected to increase as lawmakers work toward establishing regulatory guidelines for the digital asset sector. Congressional bills under consideration would enhance the CFTC’s regulatory powers over cryptocurrency products and markets.

Zaidi stated he would focus on promoting innovation while maintaining regulatory oversight during this period of market transformation, according to the announcement.

The cryptocurrency industry has seen increased mainstream adoption of digital asset products in recent years. Market participants have called for regulatory clarity as the sector continues to expand and integrate with traditional financial markets.