SEC Goes After Crypto Investing With Game-Show Ads

Cryptocurrency speculation is lumped in with other highly risky ventures in a series of new U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ads meant to educate potential investors by comparing some investment choices with a game show.

“Investing is not a game,” says a voice-over in each of the public-service spots released by the SEC on Wednesday. The ads caution viewers to do research before making choices with their money.

In one ad, the mock host invites contestants to choose from a classic game-show board of options that includes a range of dubious investments. The possible selections include one square labeled “crypto to the moon,” mixed among others such as “stock tips from your uncle,” “meme stocks” and “tulip bulbs.”

In another, a contestant says, “I’ll take celebrity endorsements,” with a mock celebrity responding, “You should buy crypto, trust me – I’m an actor.”

This series appears to be the SEC’s answer to the recent proliferation of crypto advertising on television, including in such popular and expensive time slots as the Super Bowl commercial breaks.

“It’s as important as ever for investors to take time to educate themselves,” SEC Chair Gary Gensler said in a statement.