The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has announced Harry Jung as its Acting Chief of Staff, a role that places him at the forefront of the agency’s initiatives in the rapidly evolving crypto and digital asset sector. Jung’s appointment highlights the CFTC’s ongoing commitment to navigating the complexities of these emerging markets.
Having joined the CFTC in 2023 as a Counselor and Senior Policy Advisor, Jung brings a wealth of experience to his new position. Before his tenure at the commission, he held influential roles at Citigroup and Morgan Stanley, where his work centered on regulatory engagement within the digital asset space. This background equips him with the expertise to lead the agency’s efforts in shaping policies and frameworks for this burgeoning industry.
This leadership shift coincides with significant changes at the agency under Caroline Pham, who was recently appointed as Acting Chair of the CFTC by President Trump. Pham has wasted no time in restructuring the leadership team, marking a new chapter for the commission as it adapts to the challenges posed by the digital economy. In addition to naming Jung as Acting Chief of Staff, Pham has appointed Meghan Tente as Acting General Counsel, Taylor Foy as Acting Director of Public Affairs, and Nicholas Elliot as Acting Director of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs. These changes reflect a deliberate effort to align the agency with Pham’s vision of proactive engagement with stakeholders and the creation of well-functioning markets.
Pham has consistently underscored the importance of the CFTC’s mission in supporting economic growth and market stability. “Our priority is to engage with stakeholders to foster markets that function effectively while addressing risks associated with emerging technologies like digital assets,” she remarked in a recent statement. Pham’s leadership has already seen the introduction of initiatives like the Digital Asset Markets subcommittee, which focuses on governance and risk management in the crypto sector.
Despite the momentum these appointments have generated, the Trump administration has yet to announce a permanent successor to Rostin Behnam, who stepped down as CFTC Chair on Inauguration Day. Behnam’s term officially concludes on February 7, leaving the agency in a transitional period. Among the names floated as potential candidates for the permanent chair position is Brian Quintenz, a former CFTC Commissioner known for his expertise in the crypto space.
As the agency positions itself to tackle the complexities of regulating digital assets, Jung’s appointment signals a forward-thinking approach to addressing both the opportunities and challenges presented by this dynamic market. His leadership, combined with Pham’s strategic direction, aims to ensure the CFTC remains a pivotal force in shaping the future of financial markets.