CFTC Official Who Paved the Way for Bitcoin Futures Returns as Chief of Staff

Amir Zaidi Rejoins CFTC in Senior Leadership Role

The senior policymaker who played a pivotal role in bringing regulated Bitcoin futures to the United States has returned to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) after a six-year absence.

The CFTC announced on Wednesday that Amir Zaidi has been appointed chief of staff, a move that comes as US lawmakers advance comprehensive digital asset legislation and regulatory agencies prepare for expanded oversight of crypto markets.

CFTC Leadership Highlights Zaidi’s Bitcoin Futures Legacy

CFTC Chairman Michael Selig welcomed Zaidi’s return, pointing to his deep institutional knowledge and experience navigating complex market structures.

“I’m grateful for his willingness to return as chief of staff and for his continued dedication and service to both the CFTC and our stakeholders,” Selig said.

“Amir was instrumental in the historic launch of CFTC-regulated bitcoin futures contracts during President Trump’s first term.”

Selig added that Zaidi’s expertise will be critical as Congress moves closer to passing digital asset market structure legislation.

“With Congress poised to send digital asset market structure legislation to the President’s desk, he will bring tremendous experience and expertise to the CFTC as it develops fit-for-purpose regulations for our rapidly evolving commodity markets.”

Selig shared the announcement publicly via X (formerly Twitter)

Zaidi’s Return Comes as US Crypto Regulation Accelerates

Zaidi previously served at the CFTC from 2010 to 2019, holding multiple senior roles across the agency. During his final two years, he led the Division of Market Oversight, where he helped shape the regulatory framework that enabled the launch of CFTC-regulated Bitcoin futures.

Those futures contracts debuted on the CBOE in 2017, marking a major milestone for Bitcoin at a time when institutional skepticism toward crypto remained widespread and regulatory clarity was limited.

Deep Experience Across Government and Financial Markets

Beyond his public-sector background, Zaidi brings substantial private-sector experience. Prior to rejoining the CFTC, he served as head of global compliance at broker-dealer TP ICAP, giving him firsthand exposure to market infrastructure, risk management, and regulatory compliance at scale.

This blend of regulatory and industry experience positions Zaidi to help bridge gaps between policymakers and market participants as crypto markets mature.

Crypto-Friendly Leadership Takes Shape at US Agencies

Zaidi’s appointment comes amid broader leadership changes across US financial regulators. Chairman Michael Selig, who succeeded Caroline Pham in late December, has publicly committed to supporting the administration’s goal of positioning the United States as the “Crypto Capital of the World.”

At the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Chairman Paul Atkins has also adopted a more constructive stance toward the digital asset sector. Under his leadership, the SEC has approved a wave of crypto exchange-traded funds and moved to resolve several high-profile enforcement actions.

Why Zaidi’s Return Matters for Crypto Markets

With the CFTC expected to play a central role in overseeing crypto derivatives, spot market coordination, and digital asset market structure in 2026 and beyond, Zaidi’s return signals regulatory continuity at a critical moment.

His involvement in the original Bitcoin futures rollout suggests that future crypto regulations may emphasize market integrity, institutional participation, and regulated innovation, rather than outright restriction.

See all our insights: Bitcoin World News