CFTC’s Fintech Research Unit to Hold Office Hours for Innovators

Published at: Feb. 12, 2020

The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s fintech lab will host office hours during New York Fintech Week.

In April, the CFTC’s fintech research unit, LabCFTC, will host office hours during New York Fintech Week to engage with innovators in the field, according to a recently published announcement.

LabCFTC’s objective is to promote market-enhancing fintech innovation and competition, as well as provide the CFTC with a better understanding of emerging technologies. The office hours will enable interested parties to participate in dedicated discussions and give a presentation to regulators. 

LabCFTC as a beacon in the emerging world of fintech

The CFTC established LabCFTC in 2017, with the department reporting directly to the authority’s chairman Heath Tarbert. Tarbert then said:

“Blockchain, digital assets, and other developments hold great promise for our economy. Now is the time for LabCFTC to play an even greater role as we work to develop and write the rules for these transformative new products. That reality requires engagement at the highest levels within the CFTC, which is why I am elevating LabCFTC to be an independent operating office of the agency and a direct report to me.”

In October 2019, the CFTC awarded LabCFTC status as an independent operating office. In addition to LabCFTC’s new status, the office also released its primer on artificial intelligence in financial markets.

Helping enter the market

As the fintech sector continues to mature, major industry players are keen to contribute to its development. Thus, last August, Bitcoin SV (BSV) blockchain developer and blockchain organization service Open Directory creator synfonaut launched an office hours consulting service.

The service connects developers in need of assistance with experienced Bitcoin SV developers for help on Bitcoin SV projects.

Also last year, New York-based blockchain firm ConsenSys released a new Blockchain and DApp Developer Job Kit to help aspiring Ethereum blockchain developers enter the market.

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