However, later representatives of the department clarified that these priorities are not "an exhaustive list of all areas that the department will pay attention to next year."

Inspections are an important element of the agency's mission, but they should not be formal. Today's release of the "Examination Priorities" should allow firms to prepare for a constructive dialogue with SEC experts and ensure transparency of the priorities of the agency's most public division, said Paul Atkins, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Atkins' position differs significantly from the views of his predecessor, Gary Gensler, who called for a close watch on companies related to the crypto industry.

The SEC's Audit Department is responsible for monitoring organizations, including investment advisors, broker-dealers, clearing agencies, and stock exchanges, for compliance with federal securities laws. Next year, officials will focus on "the risks associated with using the latest technologies," which include artificial intelligence and automated investment tools.

The agency will also pay "special attention" to the ability of companies to respond to cyber incidents and recover from them, "including after attacks using ransomware."