regulatory
New South Wales Treasury Proposes Flexible Regulatory Reform For Blockchain
Australia’s New South Wales is proposing a flexible regulatory reform to accommodate the thriving blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem
Ripple Expands Global Regulatory Team and Joins Blockchain Association
Ripple, the San Francisco-based blockchain startup, just announced its inclusion of four new members into its global regulatory team in Washington D.C.
G20 Lays Regulatory Foundation to Accept Digital Payments by November Summit
G20 officials have announced that they will begin the preliminary regulatory groundwork for the group to accept digital payments.
Taiwanese Singer Chen Lingjiu Implicated in JPEX Cryptocurrency Fraud Case
Taiwanese singer Chen Lingjiu faces fraud case involving JPEX, highlighting potential pitfalls of celebrity endorsements in cryptocurrency investments and the need for robust regulatory measures.
Kraken Amplifies European Footprint with BCM Acquisition
US-based cryptocurrency exchange, Kraken, has announced its plan to acquire Dutch crypto broker BCM as part of its European expansion strategy. This move aligns with the new MiCA regulatory framework, promoting a favorable investment climate in the region. The acquisition will enhance Kraken's service offerings and market position in the Netherlands.
Singapore's MAS Unveils Stablecoin Regulatory Framework
Singapore's MAS releases a regulatory framework for stablecoins after public consultation in 2022. It aims to ensure value stability and sets key requirements for issuers.
Crypto Regulatory Developments: Congressional Review Act, DOJ Charges, and More
A summary of recent regulatory actions and legal developments impacting the global crypto industry, for the period May 5 – May 20, 2024.
SFC Initiates Legal Action Against SoftMedx Healthcare and Former Directors
The SFC has commenced legal proceedings against SoftMedx Healthcare Limited and its former directors for alleged regulatory violations.
Crypto Exchange Blockchain.Com Joins Exchanges in Italy
Blockchain.com said the registration is an important part of its global plans to provide services across Europe and across the world, as the exchange just get approval from the Italian regulator.
Paradigm Challenges SEC's Authority in Lawsuit Against Binance
Paradigm, a venture capital firm, has filed an amicus brief in the SEC's ongoing lawsuit against cryptocurrency exchange Binance. The brief criticizes the SEC's approach, arguing that the agency is overstepping its regulatory boundaries. Paradigm emphasizes that the SEC's actions could have far-reaching implications for securities law.
Conflux to Deploy Uniswap v3 on Network
Conflux plans to deploy Uniswap v3 on its network, offering access to millions of potential new users in the Chinese and Asian markets. The move comes after the Uniswap v3 code license expired, allowing developers to fork the protocol and deploy their own decentralized exchange. Conflux has experienced a spike in traffic in the first quarter of 2023 and has a market capitalization of nearly $1 billion.
Cboe Digital Set to Launch Bitcoin and Ether Futures Trading in January 2024
Cboe Digital, the first US-regulated crypto native exchange, will launch Bitcoin and Ether futures trading, enhancing capital efficiency and market liquidity.
China’s Central Bank Reveals First Cohort of its FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Pilot
The Chinese central bank’s Shanghai headquarters has recently revealed the Shanghai FinTech Innovation regulatory sandbox application list. The People’s Bank of China’s (PBoC) Shanghai branch is currently soliciting opinions from the public on eight applications to be included in the FinTech innovation supervision pilot.
UN Research Unveils Bitcoin's Environmental Toll Beyond Carbon Emissions
A UN study reveals Bitcoin mining's significant environmental impact, including carbon emissions, water and land damage, and heavy reliance on fossil fuels. It calls for urgent regulatory and technological interventions to promote a sustainable digital currency ecosystem.
FTC Settles with Voyager Digital Over Misleading FDIC Claims, Former CEO Charged
The FTC settles with Voyager Digital, barring it from handling consumer assets post allegations of misleading FDIC insurance claims. The settlement highlights regulatory efforts to ensure transparency in the crypto industry amid a broader crackdown on deceptive practices.
Philippines Spearheads ASEAN AI Regulatory Framework
Philippines' Congress Speaker Martin Romualdez plans to introduce an AI regulatory framework to ASEAN during its chairmanship in 2026, focusing on digitization, cybersecurity, and managing generative AI in economic policies.
Bittrex to Shut Down U.S. Platform
Bittrex will close its U.S. platform on April 30, citing the current regulatory and economic environment. Customer funds are safe and available for withdrawal. The shutdown will not affect Bittrex Global, which will remain open for trading.
Bitcoin ETF Approval Expected to Propel Market Influx
The fervor surrounding a US-regulated spot Bitcoin ETF is palpable, with its approval expected to significantly bolster Bitcoin's market adoption. Addressing the current inefficiencies in Bitcoin investment, a spot ETF promises cost efficiency, enhanced liquidity, ease of access, and regulatory compliance. The formal recognition by regulators and established financial brands could further fuel Bitcoin's market acceptance. The estimations indicate a substantial market influx post ETF approval, not just within the US but potentially extending to global markets, laying the groundwork for a robust 2024 for Bitcoin, as per the analysis by Charles Yu of Galaxy.
Breaking: Binance Sells Russian Operations to CommEX, Exits Market
Binance has announced the sale of its entire Russia business to CommEX, citing compliance issues as the primary reason for the exit. The transition process for existing Russian users is expected to take up to one year, with no financial strings attached to the deal for Binance.
ING Bank-Led Security Token-Focused Project Pyctor Was Selected by UK's FCA for its Regulatory Sandbox
Led by ING Bank, in collaboration with ABN AMRO, BNP Paribas Securities Services, Invesco US, Société Générale – Forge, State Street, and others have launched a digital asset project — Pcytor.
Bitcoin Forms “Ascending Triangle”, Tries to Rebound Above $35,000 Crucial Level
Bitcoin has formed an ascending Triangle thus hinting a bullish trend. The cryptocurrency will need to reclaim the $35,000 level as resistance to avoid bull-ending price action.
Federal Reserve's Bowman Discusses Digital Currency Innovations Amid CBDC Debate
Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman, in a discussion at Harvard Law School, explored the evolving digital payment landscape, touching on CBDC, stablecoins, and the necessity for a robust regulatory framework. While recognizing the potential of digital assets, she emphasized a cautious approach, underscoring the importance of continued research and international collaboration to navigate the digital transformation responsibly.
South Koreans transacted $4.3 billion through illegal crypto exchanges
In 2022, South Koreans transacted $4.3 billion through illegal crypto exchanges, comprising almost 70% of all illicit money traffic captured by officers. The transactions aimed to purchase foreign virtual assets to sell in the country later due to the South Korean regulatory regime isolating the local market.
Binance Crypto Withdrawals Spike Before CFTC Accusations
Almost a billion dollars in cryptocurrency was withdrawn from Binance shortly before the US CFTC accused the exchange of regulatory violations. The total amount withdrawn from multiple platforms in the 12 hours preceding the indictment was almost $1.5 billion, with over half of that amount coming from Binance. Despite the withdrawals, Binance still holds over $63 billion worth of cryptocurrency assets.
Coinbase Amplifies Anti-Terrorism Financing Measures Through Blockchain Analytics
Coinbase, on October 17, 2023, outlined its robust measures to curb terrorism financing and other illicit activities through a rigorous compliance framework and blockchain analytics. The discourse emphasizes the importance of regulatory clarity in the U.S to minimize offshore risks associated with digital assets. With a dedicated team and technological tools, Coinbase demonstrates a proactive approach in maintaining the integrity of the crypto ecosystem.
SEC Files Application to Compel Elon Musk's Compliance with Subpoena
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has filed an application to compel Tesla CEO Elon Musk to comply with an administrative subpoena. The SEC is investigating Musk's 2022 Twitter stock purchases and his related statements and SEC filings. Despite initially agreeing to testify, Musk later refused to comply with the subpoena, prompting the SEC to seek court intervention.
Andreessen Horowitz Appoints FinCEN Exec Michele Korver as Head of Regulatory
Michele Korver brings a wealth of digital currency expertise, and will therefore help coordinate efforts to maximize a16z’s contribution to the crypto and web3 projects.
Financial Stability Board Finalizes Global Crypto Asset Regulatory Framework
FSB finalizes a global regulatory framework for crypto assets, aiming for consistent regulation. The framework includes high-level recommendations for crypto-asset activities and stablecoins.
South Korean Gaming Giant Wemade Faces $41 Million Tax Bill for Crypto Operations
South Korean gaming firm Wemade faces a $41 million tax bill for its crypto operations, highlighting the complexities of regulatory compliance in the blockchain gaming industry.
IMF Proposes Framework to Assess Crypto Asset Risks
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released a working paper that delves into the macrofinancial risks tied to crypto assets. The paper, part of the IMF's Working Papers series, proposes a framework aimed at aiding policymakers and regulatory authorities in understanding and tracking systemic risks from the crypto sector. This framework is crucial as traditional financial tools are not well-suited for assessing crypto-related risks.
German Crypto Firm USI Tech Founder Charged in $150 Million Fraud Scheme
Horst Jicha, founder of USI Tech, has been charged with defrauding investors of $150 million in a fraudulent crypto scheme, marking a significant development in regulatory action against crypto-related crimes.
Binance.US Struggles to Find Banking Partner in the U.S.
Binance.US is facing challenges in finding a bank partner to serve as a fiat on-ramp and off-ramp for its clients in the United States, following the recent failures of Silvergate and Signature Bank. The regulatory crackdown on banks with crypto clients is another factor contributing to the exchange's struggles.
Hong Kong Crypto Exchange HKVAEX Announces Phased Shutdown
HKVAEX, a Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange, has initiated a phased suspension of their services, leading to a complete shutdown by May 1, 2024.
dYdX to Exit Canadian Market Amid Regulatory Restrictions
Cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, dYdX, is withdrawing its services from Canada due to increased regulatory restrictions. The exchange will halt new user onboarding on April 7 and move existing users to "close-only mode" on April 14.
R3 Highlights the Transformative Potential of Tokenization in Finance
R3, a leading enterprise blockchain software firm, discusses the transformative potential of tokenization in the financial sector. The company emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks and industry standards to unlock the full benefits of digital assets. According to a June 2023 report from Bernstein, $5 trillion in assets could be tokenized in the next five years, offering significant opportunities for market participants.
US House to Hold Joint Hearings on Digital Assets
The House Financial Services Committee, Agriculture Committee, and subcommittees will hold joint hearings in May on establishing a bill to provide regulatory clarity to the digital asset ecosystem. The hearings will focus on addressing the market structure and striking a balance between protecting consumers and promoting responsible innovation. The goal is to report a bill out that deals with the capital raising piece for digital assets, all the way through to how a product can go from a securities regime to commodities regime, while preserving rights around products that do not fit into either regime.
Binance set to reenter Japanese crypto market
Binance is set to reenter the Japanese crypto market after acquiring the regulated crypto exchange platform, Sakura Exchange Bitcoin (SEBC). The SEBC platform will terminate its current crypto exchange and brokerage services by May 31, 2023, and reopen as Binance Japan in June. Binance had to fold its Japan operations in 2018 after regulatory warnings, but has since mended relations with regulators and reentered other markets through acquisitions.
Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan Discusses Amended Spot Bitcoin ETF Application
Matt Hougan, CIO of Bitwise, used a Twitter thread to elaborate on the firm's amended spot Bitcoin ETF application. He emphasized the need to prove that the CME bitcoin futures market is a "regulated market of significant size" for surveillance purposes and highlighted Bitwise's history of original research in their ETF filings.
Tether Implements Wallet-Freezing Policy Aligned with US Regulations
Tether's wallet-freezing policy, in line with US OFAC regulations, is a proactive approach to cybercrime, setting a new standard in the crypto industry.
Bermuda’s Jewel Bank Receives Regulatory Approval to Run as Digital Asset Bank
Jewel Bank announces that it acquire licenses from a local regulator to become the first digital asset bank in the island nation.
Alchemy Pay Expands U.S. Footprint with Iowa Money Services License
Alchemy Pay, a prominent crypto-fiat payment gateway, has secured a Money Services License in Iowa, marking a significant expansion in the U.S. market and enhancing its global compliance portfolio.
Coinbase's Custodial Role in New Bitcoin Spot ETFs Marks a Crypto Milestone
Coinbase's role in the newly approved Bitcoin spot ETFs by the SEC marks a crucial advancement in cryptocurrency's integration into mainstream finance, bringing regulatory clarity and institutional investment opportunities.
Binance Survey: Institutional Investors Bullish on Crypto's Long-Term Prospects
Binance Research, in collaboration with Binance VIP & Institutional, has recently unveiled the results of their Institutional Crypto Outlook Survey. The study reveals a strong positive sentiment towards cryptocurrencies among institutional investors, with 63.5% expressing optimism for the next year and a striking 88% displaying a positive outlook for the next decade.
He Yi Discusses Binance's Regulatory Strategy Amid Actions Against Binance and Zhao Changpen
In a public letter, He Yi, Co-founder of Binance, discusses the company's compliance strategy, which gains significance amidst a U.S. Department of Justice inquiry initiated on May 6, 2023, 13 SEC charges, and the company's recent exit from the Russian market.
ACE Exchange President Michael Wang Arrested
Michael Wang, President of ACE Exchange, was recently arrested on charges of fraud and money laundering, marking a significant event in the cryptocurrency industry.
Binance Stops Trading Of Stock Tokens amid increasing Global Regulatory Scrutiny
Binance has announced that it will suspend providing digital versions of stocks such as Coinbase, Apple, and Tesla, a time when the exchange faces rising pressure from regulators across the globe.
Conflux to Deploy Uniswap v3 on Its Blockchain
Conflux plans to deploy Uniswap v3 on its blockchain, which would offer access to millions of potential new users, particularly in China and Asian markets. This comes days after the Uniswap v3 code license expired, allowing developers to fork the protocol and deploy their own decentralized exchange. Conflux has a market capitalization of nearly $1 billion and has $45 million in total value locked on-chain. The network also announced a partnership with China Telecom to develop a blockchain SIM card.
Vodafone Follows PayPal and Visa to Leave Facebook's Libra Association
Maybe what Facebook is not doing right that costs it to lose founding partners? Breaking news shows that Facebook’s Libra has lost another member of its council. This time round, Vodafone has confirmed to have left Libra Association.
Rollbit Shuts Down Degen EXchange and Rollbot.com Amid Regulatory Concerns
Rollbit has announced the discontinuation of its Degen EXchange and sister site Rollbot.com due to regulatory challenges and low user adoption. However, the company's core product, Rollbit.com, and its $RLB token functionality remain unaffected. The firm also hinted at exciting future releases.
Laser Digital Secures In-Principal Approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market
Laser Digital, Nomura's digital asset subsidiary, has received In-Principal Approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market's Financial Services Regulatory Authority. The approval allows the company to offer broker-dealer and asset management services in the UAE, subject to fulfilling specific conditions.
ADGM Launches Pioneering DLT Foundations Regime
Abu Dhabi Global Market's Registration Authority has introduced the Distributed Ledger Technology Foundations Regulations 2023, a global legislative framework designed to facilitate token issuance, promote governance, and drive transparency in the crypto sector.
Japan's JCBA Submits Initial Proposal for IEO Regulatory Reform to JVCEA
JCBA submits an initial proposal for IEO regulatory reform to JVCEA, outlining four key agendas aimed at stabilizing the IEO market and enhancing user protection. The reform aims to make domestic IEOs more attractive than foreign exchanges.
THORSwap Resumes Operations with Enhanced Security Measures to Combat Illicit Funds Transfer
THORSwap, a decentralized exchange (DEX) leveraging the THORChain protocol, resumed operations on October 13, following a temporary shutdown to address concerns of illicit funds transfer. The platform has enhanced its security measures, updated its terms of service, and partnered with an industry leader to prevent the movement of illicit funds. Although the move was met with mixed reactions from the community, it underscores THORSwap's commitment to providing a secure trading environment amid rising regulatory pressures in the DeFi sector.
Indian Crypto Exchanges Seek Clarity on Legal Status and Taxability from the Reserve Bank of India
Crypto exchanges and companies in India are still seeking regulatory clarity and tax status from the Reserve Bank of India following a Supreme Court ruling in favor of the crypto industry earlier this year. India’s Supreme Court reversed the ban placed by the central bank on financial institutions offering crypto-related banking services. It is two months after lifting the ban, crypto exchanges and firms are now seeking clarification regarding the nature of their operations.
Kraken Fights IRS Over Customer Information
Kraken is contesting the United States Internal Revenue Service's demand for critical exchange user information, citing it as an "unjustified treasure hunt." Kraken has requested federal court intervention, pointing out that the IRS has gone "far beyond" its intrusive summons. The fight against IRS is Kraken's response to the agency's February summons, which demanded additional user information to identify Kraken accounts that did at least $20,000 of cryptocurrency trading in any single year between 2016 and 2020.
BlackRock Has No Plans for XRP ETF
BlackRock Inc., the world's largest asset manager, halts its plans for a spot XRP ETF due to ongoing regulatory uncertainties and concerns over XRP's legal status in the midst of the Ripple vs. SEC case.
Grayscale Investment Company Receives FINRA Approval to Trade Bitcoin Cash and Litecoin Publicly
US regulators have approved shares of Grayscale Investment’s Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash Trusts for public trading.
Circle Files with The US SEC Intends to Become a National Cryptocurrency Bank
Circle intends to become a full reserve national commercial bank as a part of the potential solution, the company explains its core services heavily rely on third parties that create business risks.
Hong Kong's 2024 Budget Introduces 'Regulatory Sandbox' for Stablecoin Testing
Hong Kong to launch a 'regulatory sandbox' for testing stablecoin issuance and business models, as outlined in the city's 2024 budget plan.
Dee Templeton Joins OpenAI's Board Amidst Corporate Governance Overhaul
Microsoft's Dee Templeton joins OpenAI's board as a nonvoting observer amidst significant corporate governance changes following CEO Sam Altman's brief ouster and reinstatement.
Coinbase vs SEC: Legal Battle Heats Up
The US Court of Appeals has ordered the SEC to respond to Coinbase’s writ of mandamus within 10 days. The largest US cryptocurrency exchange filed a lawsuit in April requesting regulatory clarity, but has faced increased enforcement and warnings from the SEC, leading to a downgraded rating by Citigroup.
Paxos Gets Nod to Operate Digital Payments Token Services in Singapore
It is a positive sign for Paxos as it means that the blockchain company is a compliant business and MAS is supportive to it.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Criticizes Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton's Regulatory Approach
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse criticizes former SEC Chair Jay Clayton for his aggressive regulatory approach, citing hypocrisy based on a 2020 lawsuit against Ripple. The ongoing legal tussle and recent developments highlight the broader regulatory uncertainties in the crypto industry.
Dubai's VARA Appoints Matthew White as CEO
Dubai's VARA is appointing Matthew White as its new CEO, focusing on regulatory compliance in the cryptocurrency space, following a leadership transition.
Crypto Lending Firm Delio Faces Regulatory Sanctions for Compliance Failures in South Korea
South Korean crypto asset management firm Delio has been fined KRW 1.896 billion and suspended for three months by the Financial Services Commission's Financial Intelligence Unit due to non-compliance with financial transaction laws.
Sygnum Singapore Secures MPI License from MAS
Sygnum Singapore’s acquisition of a Major Payment Institution Licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore comes amidst a wave of similar regulatory approvals by entities like Coinbase, Blockchain.com, and Crypto.com. This development broadens Sygnum's service offerings and positions it strongly in a competitive yet regulated digital asset market landscape in Singapore, thereby potentially attracting a wider segment of institutional clientele.
Hong Kong's VSFG Set to Pioneer Spot Bitcoin ETF in Q1 2024
Hong Kong's VSFG is set to launch a spot Bitcoin ETF in Q1 2024, aiming for $500 million in assets. This aligns with Hong Kong's regulatory shift towards cryptocurrency and its ambition to become a digital asset hub.
SEC Delays Decision on Invesco and Galaxy Digital's Ether ETF
The SEC extends the review period for the Invesco and Galaxy Digital's Ether ETF until February 6, 2024, signaling continued caution in cryptocurrency product approvals.
Crypto Bank Anchorage Cuts 20% of Workforce
Anchorage Digital has laid off 75 employees, citing regulatory uncertainty and market volatility. The crypto bank expressed confidence in the digital asset landscape but acknowledged headwinds for its business and the crypto industry.
Ripple Executives Cleared of SEC Charges in Landmark Decision
In a major development, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Executive Chairman Chris Larsen were cleared of all charges by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This is the third legal victory for the executives and Ripple, leaving the crypto industry questioning the SEC's approach.
Former Voyager Digital CEO Faces Fraud Charges Amid CFTC and FTC Crackdown
The CFTC and FTC have levelled fraud charges against former Voyager Digital CEO Stephen Ehrlich, spotlighting the case as a notable instance of regulatory enforcement within the digital asset sector. The charges underscore the market's inherent risks and the imperative for robust regulatory compliance to ensure investor protection.
Binance.US Distances Itself from Binance.com; CZ Steps Down as Chairman
Binance.US declares operational independence from Binance.com, reassures customers, and remains compliant with U.S. regulations, following a $4.3 billion settlement. Chairman Changpeng Zhao steps down.
40 German Banks Are Seeking Regulatory Approval to Offer Bitcoin Custody
Many German banks have filed a request to introduce a digital asset custody business. Germany’s Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, popularly identified as BaFin, has received over 40 applications from German banks interested in offering crypto custody services.
Binance.US Struggles to Find a Bank Partner in the United States
Binance.US is facing challenges in securing a bank partner to serve as a fiat on-ramp and off-ramp for its clients in the United States. Recent regulatory crackdowns on banks with crypto clients, along with failed attempts to establish direct banking relationships, have left Binance.US without banking services.
FCA Restricts Rebuildingsociety.com, Impeding Binance's UK Compliance Efforts
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has imposed restrictions on Rebuildingsociety.com Ltd, a peer-to-peer lending platform, impacting its recent partnership with crypto exchange Binance for complying with the FCA's marketing regime. The regulation mandates firms to ensure transparent and fair marketing, affecting Binance’s strategy to serve the UK market. The move showcases the FCA's stringent stance towards ensuring marketing compliance, especially within the crypto sector.
Russian Top Digital Bank Tinkoff Explores Crypto Investment Services
Despite Russia’s Central Bank imposed ban and restrictions on cryptocurrency usage in the country, Tinkoff bank is examining potential cryptocurrency investments services to offer to its clients.
Taiwan's Legislature Considers Virtual Asset Management Bill to Protect Consumers
The Taiwanese Legislature is deliberating on a new Virtual Asset Management Bill aimed at fostering better consumer protection and industry oversight. The bill, seen as moderate, outlines pragmatic mandates for VASPs while leaving room for further regulatory fine-tuning, marking a significant step in Taiwan’s evolving digital asset regulatory landscape.
Hong Kong Security Chief Vows to Hunt Down JPEX Crypto Scam Ringleaders
Hong Kong authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend the key operators behind JPEX, a cryptocurrency platform implicated in the city's largest alleged financial fraud. The police have arrested 15 individuals and seized assets worth HK$85 million ($10.8 million). Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po emphasized the need for a proper regulatory framework for Web3-related businesses.
Lesley O'Neill was Appointed as Binance.US Chief Compliance Officer
Lesley O’Neill's appointment as Binance.US Chief Compliance Officer marks a strategic response to heightened SEC scrutiny, emphasizing the crypto industry's shift towards compliance and regulatory adherence.
French Bank SocGen Obtains Regulatory Approval to Offer Crypto Assets Services
Société Générale now engages in regulated crypto-related business activities.
Nomura's Laser Digital Launches Ethereum Adoption Fund for Institutional Investors
Nomura's Laser Digital has launched an Ethereum Adoption Fund, focusing on institutional investors, with a strategy involving staking and regulated custody, aiming to increase institutional engagement in Ethereum investments.
Nasdaq to Launch Digital Asset Custody Services
Nasdaq is preparing to launch its custody services for digital assets by the end of Q2 2022, starting with Bitcoin and Ether. The exchange has applied for a limited-purpose trust company charter from the New York Department of Financial Services to oversee the new business and aims to eventually build a broad suite of services for its digital assets division. Its entry into the crypto market could potentially boost institutional investor confidence and pave the way for more traditional financial institutions to offer similar services.
SEC's Gag Rule Faces Criticism: Commissioner Hester Peirce Calls for Reform
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has publicly disagreed with the agency's refusal to amend the 1972 gag rule, raising concerns over its impact on free speech and regulatory integrity. The rule, which prevents defendants from criticizing SEC allegations post-settlement, is being challenged for its constitutional implications.
GSR Secures Major Payment Institution Licence from Singapore's MAS
GSR, a global cryptocurrency trading firm, has received In-Principle Approval for a Major Payment Institution licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The approval allows GSR's Singapore subsidiary, GSR Markets Pte. Ltd., to better serve the cryptocurrency community. The news comes a day after Coinbase Singapore announced its full licence, highlighting the competitive yet regulated crypto landscape in Singapore.
Malaysia’s Financial Regulator Says Binance is Not Authorized to Operate in the Country
The Securities Commission (SC) of Malaysia, the country’s financial regulator, has announced that Binance cryptocurrency exchange is not unauthorized to operate in the country. The financial watchdog has, therefore, put the crypto exchange on the list of unlicensed companies.
Bittrex Global to End Trading on Dec 4, 2023
Bittrex Global, a Liechtenstein-based cryptocurrency exchange, will cease operations on December 4, 2023, following regulatory challenges and legal proceedings, requiring customers to convert U.S. dollar holdings.
Sean Patrick Maloney's OECD Role Amidst Crypto Advisory Background
Sean Patrick Maloney, after serving in the U.S. House and on Coinbase's Advisory Council, faces scrutiny over potential conflicts in his OECD ambassador role, signaling a pivotal moment for crypto regulation.
SEC Regrets Missteps in Debt Box Case: A Lesson in Legal Accountability
The SEC's acknowledgement of errors in the Debt Box case highlights the significance of accuracy and candor in legal proceedings, impacting regulatory practices in the cryptocurrency sector.
Nomura's Laser Digital Partners with WebN Group to Launch Libre Protocol on Polygon
Nomura's Laser Digital and WebN Group have unveiled the Libre protocol, a fund tokenization infrastructure powered by Polygon technology, set to launch in Q1 2024. The protocol aims to revolutionize the management and distribution of alternative investments, with Brevan Howard and Hamilton Lane as initial users.
SEC Extends Review Period for ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF
The SEC has postponed its decision on the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF till January 10, 2024, marking another delay in the approval process. Amid broader calls for swifter approvals, the SEC's meticulous review approach underscores the regulatory cautiousness enveloping cryptocurrency-based financial offerings.
South Korean Crypto Exchanges Reveal 'Compensation Reserve Funds'; Upbit Leads with KRW 20 Billion
The disclosure of 'Compensation Reserve Funds' by South Korean crypto exchanges, led by Upbit with KRW 20 billion, reflects the country's broader regulatory strides aimed at ensuring user protection, transaction transparency, and market discipline. This move aligns with the new regulatory framework set to be implemented in 2024, spotlighting the government's agenda to foster a robust infrastructure for digital assets, with the reserve fund mandate forming a cornerstone of this initiative.
BlackRock and ARK Invest Conform to SEC's Cash Redemption Model for Bitcoin ETF
Major ETF issuers BlackRock and ARK Invest comply with SEC's cash redemption model for their spot Bitcoin ETFs, potentially paving the way for regulatory approval.
Celsius to Transition to Mining-Only NewCo following Bankruptcy Court's Confirmation of Plan
Celsius Network, following bankruptcy court approval, is transitioning to a Bitcoin mining-focused entity to address regulatory challenges from the SEC.
Indian Minister Reveals Crypto Regulatory Measures to Tame Terrorism
G. Kishan Reddy, India’s Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs disclosed that the nation would incorporate the standards of the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to deter terrorism by cutting off funding sources, especially cryptocurrencies.
Elon Musk's X to Launch In-App Payment Services by Mid-2024
Elon Musk's X plans to launch in-app payment services by mid-2024, indicating a shift from his previous crypto interests to fiat currency.
Congressional Memo Challenges SEC's SAB 121
Congress members question the enforceability of the Securities and Exchange Commission's Staff Accounting Bulletin 121, arguing it deviates from standard accounting practices, misrepresents custodians' responsibilities, and increases consumer risk.
China Has Kickstarted the Experimentation of a Blockchain Pilot in its Equity Trading Industry
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) has kickstarted the experimentation of a blockchain pilot for the equity trading industry in the country. Announced by the Beijing Local Financial Supervision and Administration, CSRC will be assisting the Beijing Equity Trading Center for the blockchain pilot.
Yield Protocol and Utopia Labs Announce Wind-Down
Yield Protocol and Utopia Labs have recently disclosed the cessation of their current operations due to various factors. While Yield Protocol cites inadequate demand for fixed-rate borrowing and regulatory hurdles, Utopia Labs is pivoting away from its existing product, though it remains upbeat about the crypto sector.
Bittrex to Wind Down US Operations
Cryptocurrency exchange Bittrex will wind down its US operations due to regulatory and economic challenges. US customers are advised to withdraw their funds by April 30, 2023.
SEC Delays Decision on Ether ETFs to May 2024, Impacting Key Proposals
The SEC has postponed its decision on several Ether ETFs, including Hashdex Nasdaq Ethereum ETF and Grayscale Ethereum Futures ETF, affecting the future of Ethereum-based financial products.
Tether Appoints Jesse Spiro as Head of Government Affairs Amid Regulatory Challenges
Tether appoints Jesse Spiro as Head of Government Affairs to strengthen regulatory relations amid U.S. scrutiny, leveraging his PayPal and Chainalysis experience.
Enigma Settles With US SEC Over Unregistered 2017 ICO
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently announced it has settled charges against blockchain startup Enigma MPC.
US House Committees To Hold Joint Hearings On Digital Asset Regulations
The US House Financial Services and Agriculture Committees, along with the Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Inclusion Subcommittee, and the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee will hold joint hearings in May to establish regulatory clarity for the digital asset ecosystem. Representative Patrick McHenry, the House Financial Services Committee chairman, has announced that the hearings aim to establish a bill providing regulatory clarity to the crypto sector, which adds to the work on a bipartisan bill led by crypto-friendly Senator Cynthia Lummis and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
dYdX to Exit Canadian Market
Cryptocurrency derivatives exchange dYdX is set to exit the Canadian market due to regulatory restrictions. The exchange will stop onboarding new Canadian users and move existing users to "close-only mode" over the next seven days, allowing them to only withdraw funds. dYdX is hoping for a change in the regulatory climate to resume services in the country.
Tornado Cash Token Plummets Following Binance Delisting Announcement
The Tornado Cash token's value significantly decreased following Binance's delisting announcement, amid regulatory and market compliance issues in the cryptocurrency sector.
Coinbase Calls for Judicial Intervention on SEC's Inaction
Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, has filed a formal response with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, urging a mandamus order to compel the SEC to act on Coinbase’s rulemaking petition within 30 days, highlighting the SEC's prolonged inaction and the pressing need for regulatory clarity surrounding digital assets.
Circle Formally Refutes Allegations of Illicit Financing and Connections to Justin Sun
Circle denies CfA's allegations of illicit financing and Justin Sun ties, emphasizing regulatory compliance and advocating for stronger stablecoin laws, as clarified by Dante Disparte.
Coinbase CEO Compares SEC to Soccer Refs in Criticism of Lack of Clarity Around Crypto Regulation
Coinbase CEO, Brian Armstrong, compared the SEC to “soccer refs” in a game of pickleball, criticizing the regulator for their lack of clarity around crypto regulation. The comments came after Coinbase revealed they had been issued a Wells notice, which typically precedes an enforcement action. The crypto community has widely condemned the recent notice, with many agreeing that the SEC has reversed its earlier position regarding Coinbase.
HKPF and SFC Form Joint Working Group to Tackle Illicit Activities in VATPs
The HKPF and SFC have formed a joint working group to enhance monitoring and investigation of illegal activities related to VATPs. The group aims to facilitate information sharing, assess risks, and collaborate on investigations. The move comes amid ongoing investigations into the unlicensed operations of the Dubai-based JPEX exchange.
Traversing Through the Crypto Regulatory Landscape in 2019
Blockchain and crypto regulation has seen its ups and downs in 2019, with endless regulators evolving along with the realm of the new technology development and use cases. From countries that view blockchain as a threat to learning to embrace the technology; let’s have a look at some of the major regulatory changes in 2019.
Nigeria Eyes New Regulatory Framework to Boost Crypto and Blockchain Adoption
Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance is collaborating with the nation’s capital market watchdog, to provide a new regulatory environment for the blockchain and crypto space.
FINRA Ends Regulatory Unclarity By Awarding Harbor with Crypto Broker-Dealer License
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) awarded Harbor Square Investments a broker-dealer license. Harbor Square Investments is a subsidiary of tokenized securities platform-Harbor.
The Cayman Islands Creates Regulatory Framework to Attract Virtual Asset Business
The Ministry of Financial Services of the Cayman Islands announced that it is building regulatory frameworks for individuals and entities that offer digital assets in business.
ING Warns Facebook’s Ties With Banks May Be Breached Due To Libra Regulatory Concerns
Ralph Hamers, the CEO of ING, warned that Facebook's relationships with banks will probably be cut off due to its inability to address Libra regulatory issues, especially the money-laundering fears.
Singapore's Central Bank Paves the Way for Regulatory Oversight of Cryptocurrency Derivatives Trading
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has revealed regulatory plans to permit the trading of cryptocurrency derivatives on select platforms. This oversight strategy is being fronted because investors are considerably favoring these products.
Perianne Boring: Fostering Blockchain Through Regulatory Uncertainty
Perianne Boring is the President and Founder of the Chamber of Digital Commerce, the world's first and largest blockchain trade association. Boring began her career as a legislative analyst in the U.S. House of Representatives, advising on finance, economics, tax, and healthcare policy. Prior to forming the Chamber, Boring was a television host and anchor of an international finance program that aired in more than 100 countries to over 650 million viewers.
European Central Bank Encourages Clear Regulatory Structure for Stablecoins to Reap the Benefits While Minimizing Potential Risks
The European Central Bank (ECB) published an in-depth report on global stablecoins, focusing on highlighting the requirement for clear regulatory parameters for stablecoins, and the risks it may pose to financial stability. The ECB suggests that a “robust regulatory framework” must be established to address risks before its benefits could be explored.
Hawaii Pushes Out New Digital Currency Regulatory Sandbox to Boost Crypto Growth
The government of Hawaii has recently announced its establishment of a regulatory sandbox for digital currency companies. The partnership between the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Division of Financial Institutions (DFI) and Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) will see the launch of Hawaii’s first pilot program aimed for digital currencies.