CFTC Names Innovation Task Force Members to Develop AI and Prediction-Market Rules

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission regulates derivatives markets, where the rapid expansion of crypto assets, AI-powered automated trading and prediction markets has introduced new products while raising concerns over market manipulation, insider trading and federal-state jurisdictional disputes. The CFTC formed the Innovation Task Force, or ITF, to establish consistent rules for blockchain, autonomous systems and event contracts and to coordinate with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

CFTC Chairman Michael S. Selig established the ITF on March 24, 2026, appointing senior adviser Michael J. Passalacqua to lead it. The agency announced the first five members on April 10, including Hank Balaban and Sam Canavos. Drawn from across the CFTC and the private sector, the team has experience in crypto assets, prediction markets and legal practice and will work with the Innovation Advisory Committee to advance the regulatory framework.