CFTC Appoints Harry Jung as Acting Chief of Staff for Crypto Engagement

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced the appointment of Harry Jung as Acting Chief of Staff, tasked with leading the agency's engagement in crypto and digital assets.

Jung, who joined the CFTC in 2023 as a Counselor and Senior Policy Advisor, previously held significant roles at Citigroup and Morgan Stanley, focusing on digital asset regulatory engagement.

This leadership change comes as President Trump appointed Caroline Pham as CFTC Acting Chair. Pham, who has been involved in various digital asset initiatives, has already made several changes to the agency's leadership team, replacing members appointed by her predecessor, Rostin Behnam.

Alongside Jung, 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.

Pham emphasized the importance of the CFTC's mission, stating her intent to engage with stakeholders to foster well-functioning markets that support economic growth. She has previously led initiatives including the creation of a Digital Asset Markets subcommittee, aimed at addressing governance and risk in the digital asset space.

Despite these appointments, the Trump administration has yet to announce a permanent replacement for Behnam, who stepped down on Inauguration Day.

Benham’s term at the CFTC concludes on Feb. 7. Reports indicate that former CFTC Commissioner Brian Quintenz is among the frontrunners for the permanent chair position.