CFTC looks to strengthen innovation and market integrity with new appointments
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has appointed Donald Battle as chief data innovation officer and J Matthew Haws as senior advisor to the Chairman’s Office.
Battle joins the CFTC from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), where he most recently served as senior advisor to Commissioner Hester Peirce on the agency’s Crypto Task Force.
Prior to the SEC, Battle served as a virtual currency enforcement officer at the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) at the US Department of Treasury.
“I am thrilled to welcome Don Battle to the CFTC,” said chairman Michael Selig. “Don brings a wealth of expertise in data science, blockchain forensics, programming interfaces, and cutting-edge AI solutions.
“His contributions will be instrumental in driving the agency forward in fostering innovation and ensuring we continue to adapt to the evolving technological landscape.”
Commenting on his new role, Battle said: “I was lucky enough to work for Chairman Selig on the SEC’s Crypto Task Force, and to be asked to follow him to the CFTC is a true honor.
“We are living in the age of data, and I could not be more driven to help the Chairman and talented CFTC staff to be a force multiplier for integrity and innovation in the United States.”
The second appointment sees J Matthew Haws join the CFTC as senior advisor in the Office of the Chairman, and as the Chicago Regional Administrator.
“Matt will be a vital addition to our Chicago office as the agency continues to staff up throughout the country,” said Selig. “His extensive background in derivatives markets will help drive forward the agency’s mission to protect our markets and market participants from fraud, manipulation, and other abuses.”
Haws most recently served as senior legal counsel at financial services company Marex.
“I am honored to join the CFTC at this exciting time in its history,” Haws commented. “At this critical moment for innovation in American financial markets, I look forward to contributing to the Commission’s efforts to support responsible innovation and ensure market integrity.”