Chris Giancarlo is leaving legal practice to become a full-time adviser to crypto and fintech firms, marking a deeper shift into the digital asset sector.
Giancarlo, who previously chaired the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, said he is departing law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher to focus on advising founders, CEOs and boards in crypto and financial technology.
“From here on, I'll devote my time to advising founders & builders of FinTech & Digital Assets and their CEOs and boards, research & writing on public policy issues, and continuing work with non-profit programs,”
He said.
Giancarlo oversaw the approval of the first Bitcoin futures markets in the US during his tenure and earned the nickname “Crypto Dad” for his early support of digital assets and regulatory clarity.
He has remained active in the sector since leaving office, including advising crypto bank Sygnum on global regulation and strategic partnerships.
Giancarlo has also argued that regulators like the CFTC and SEC can still advance crypto rules even if legislation stalls, though he warned delays could discourage bank participation.
His move follows a broader trend of former regulators entering the crypto industry, including former acting CFTC chair Caroline Pham joining MoonPay as chief legal officer.
At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $74,435.22.