Subject: File No. S7-04-23
From: Randolph Carroll

Dear Securities and Exchange Commission, I, Randolph Carroll, am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed rule "Safeguarding Advisory Client Assets." As an average American citizen, I am deeply concerned about the potential impact of this rule on my ability to access lucrative investment opportunities and improve my financial situation. I understand the need to enhance investor protections and address gaps in the custody rule, but it is critical to consider the impact on individuals like myself who are striving to get ahead financially. The proposed rule, particularly its application to digital assets like cryptocurrencies, has the potential to create additional barriers that limit my access to these investment opportunities. Digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, have increasingly been recognized as a transformative asset class that can offer significant returns and diversification. However, regulatory uncertainties and burdensome requirements have already made it challenging for average Americans like myself to participate in this market. Expanding the coverage of the rule to include a broader range of investments held in a client's account is admirable, but it is important to ensure that this does not further restrict my ability to invest in digital assets. The proposed rule, if implemented without proper considerations, may increase compliance burdens for investment advisers and limit the number of qualified custodians willing to provide services for these assets. By creating additional barriers and increasing compliance costs, the proposed rule may ultimately prevent individuals like myself from accessing potentially lucrative and transformative investment opportunities. This further perpetuates the wealth gap and limits my ability to improve my financial situation. I kindly request the Securities and Exchange Commission to reevaluate the potential impact of the proposed rule on individuals who are trying to get ahead financially. It is essential to strike a balance between investor protection and fostering opportunities for ordinary Americans to build wealth and have a fair chance at financial success. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to voice my concerns on this matter. I trust that the Securities and Exchange Commission will consider the impact on average American citizens and work towards creating a regulatory framework that fosters financial inclusion and opportunities for a brighter future. Sincerely, Randolph Carroll