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Hester Peirce, also known as the “Crypto Mom” due to her pro-cryptocurrency and blockchain stance, assumed office as Commissioner of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on January 11, 2018. She was appointed to this position by former President Donald Trump. This appointment was a significant milestone in Peirce’s career, who had previously gained expertise in financial market regulation through her work as a researcher at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University.

## A Trailblazing Commissioner
Peirce is nicknamed the “Crypto Mom” due to her supportive stance on cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Her appointment as a Commissioner of the SEC was particularly significant because it marked the first time a known cryptocurrency advocate had taken on a regulatory role within the U.S. government agency responsible for enforcing securities laws and regulating the securities industry.

## Regulatory Experience
Before becoming a Commissioner, Peirce worked as a researcher at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. In this role, she focused on financial market regulation and the regulation of the Financial Stability Oversight Council. Her work provided her with valuable insights into the complexities of financial markets and regulatory systems, which positioned her well for her subsequent role at the SEC.

## Prior Advocacy
Peirce’s supportive stance on cryptocurrency and blockchain technology was evident before her appointment as an SEC Commissioner. She had consistently advocated for a more accommodative regulatory approach to these emerging technologies, arguing that innovation should not be stifled by overbearing regulation. Her appointment as Commissioner signaled a potential shift in the SEC’s approach to cryptocurrency and blockchain regulation.

## Impact on the Cryptocurrency Community
The appointment of Peirce as an SEC Commissioner was met with enthusiasm from the cryptocurrency community. Her vocal support for the industry indicated a potential shift in the regulatory environment, which had previously been characterized by uncertainty and ambiguity. Many in the cryptocurrency community hoped that her appointment would lead to more favorable and clear regulatory guidelines for the industry.

## Conclusion
Hester Peirce’s appointment as a Commissioner of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission marked a significant moment for the cryptocurrency industry. Her supportive stance on cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology indicated a potential shift in the SEC’s regulatory approach toward the industry. Her appointment was celebrated by many in the cryptocurrency community, who hoped that it would lead to more clarity and accommodation within the regulatory environment.