Exchange Act Registration

Definition ∞ Exchange Act registration refers to the legal requirement for certain entities, such as securities exchanges or broker-dealers, to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This registration ensures compliance with federal regulations concerning market operations and investor protection. It imposes specific reporting and disclosure obligations.
Context ∞ In the digital asset sector, the applicability of Exchange Act registration to cryptocurrency platforms remains a key regulatory discussion. News often reports on SEC actions or statements concerning whether certain crypto exchanges or decentralized finance protocols must register. This regulatory clarity is vital for market participants operating within the United States. Compliance is a significant operational challenge for many entities.