Bitcoin Futures Pioneer Returns to the CFTC as Chief of Staff
The US derivatives regulator is bringing back a key figure from Bitcoin’s early days in regulated markets. Amir Zaidi is returning to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) as chief of staff, just as Washington prepares for what officials describe as a pivotal year for crypto regulation.
The CFTC announced on Dec. 31 that Chairman Michael S. Selig had appointed Zaidi to the role. Zaidi previously spent nearly a decade at the agency before moving into the private sector.
“Amir brings deep experience both at the Commission and across the financial services industry,” Selig said, pointing to Zaidi’s background as the agency works to shape clearer rules for digital asset markets.
From Market Oversight to Bitcoin Futures
Zaidi worked at the CFTC from 2010 to 2019, most recently leading the Division of Market Oversight. During that time, he helped oversee one of crypto’s biggest milestones: the launch of the first federally regulated Bitcoin futures contracts.
In late 2017, the CFTC allowed CME and Cboe Futures Exchange to self-certify Bitcoin futures, paving the way for US-listed trading just days later. The move marked Bitcoin’s first major step into regulated US markets.
After leaving the CFTC, Zaidi became global head of compliance at TP ICAP, bringing his regulatory experience into the private sector.
A Return During a Regulatory Shift
Zaidi said he was looking forward to returning to the agency. “I am excited to return to the CFTC and thank Chairman Selig for appointing me to this important role,” he said, adding that he plans to support the chairman’s pro-innovation agenda as derivatives markets continue to evolve.
His return comes just days after Selig was sworn in as the 16th chairman of the CFTC, following his nomination by former President Donald Trump and Senate confirmation on Dec. 18.
Selig has signaled a shift away from regulation by enforcement toward clearer, more predictable rules. Under his leadership, the CFTC has already taken steps that bring regulated US venues closer to spot-style crypto trading.
For crypto markets, Zaidi’s appointment is another sign that the CFTC expects to play a central role in shaping US crypto market structure in 2026, as digital asset legislation moves closer to the president’s desk and policymakers push to keep crypto activity onshore.
