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Consensys Files Lawsuit Against SEC Over Ethereum Regulation
Consensys, a software development firm, has filed a lawsuit against the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its commissioners, claiming the SEC plans to regulate Ethereum as a security, highlighting the ongoing debate on cryptocurrencies' regulatory classification and potential industry impact.
Binance Faces Intensified Scrutiny in Nigeria Amid Accusations of Impacting Local Currency
Binance is under heightened scrutiny in Nigeria, with allegations of contributing to the naira's devaluation, challenging the crypto exchange's regulatory dialogues.
Binance Ends USDC Transactions on TRC20 Network
Binance will stop supporting USDC transactions on the TRC20 network from April 5, 2024, in response to Circle's policy changes.
Taiwan's Financial Regulator Cautions Investors Amidst Crypto Volatility
Taiwan's FSC urges public caution with virtual asset trading due to extreme price volatility, highlighting the speculative nature and risks involved.
Genesis settles with the SEC, agreeing to a $21 million penalty
Genesis Global Capital, LLC settles with the SEC, agreeing to a $21 million penalty for unregistered securities offerings through its Gemini Earn program.
Rep. French Hill Eyes Financial Services Committee Leadership Amid Crypto Focus
Arkansas Rep. French Hill is poised to assume leadership of the House Financial Services Committee, bringing a crypto-savvy perspective to the role.
Breaking: Bybit Receives Unlicensed Operation Warning from HK SFC
Hong Kong's SFC has issued a public warning against the unlicensed virtual asset trading platform Bybit, advising caution for potential investors.
HKMA Initiates Stablecoin Issuer Sandbox Program
The HKMA has announced the launch of a stablecoin issuer sandbox, a step forward for fintech innovation in Hong Kong, aligning with regulatory oversight.
LSE Set to Launch Bitcoin and Ethereum ETNs
LSE readies for Bitcoin & Ethereum ETN listings in Q2 2024, aligning with FCA's updated crypto stance, signaling a landmark for regulated crypto investments.
South Korea's National Tax Service Advances on Cryptocurrency Oversight with Integrated Management System
South Korea's National Tax Service is set to complete the 'Integrated Cryptocurrency Management System' by 2025, aiming to enhance tax compliance and prevent illicit activities.
UK Government Explores IP Challenges in Emergent Metaverse Ecosystems
A new UK government report delves into the complex realm of IP issues within the Metaverse, highlighting the lack of consensus on its definition and the IP challenges it poses.
South Korea Probes OKX for Unregistered Operations
South Korean financial authorities are investigating OKX, a cryptocurrency exchange, for potentially operating without proper registration, following allegations from the Digital Asset Exchange Association.
Japan Advances LLC-Type DAOs: Easing Tokenized Membership Rights Regulations
Japan proposes amendments to ease regulations on tokenized membership rights for Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), aligning tokenized rights with traditional company memberships, marking a significant step towards fostering DAO operations.
Regulating the Metaverse: BIS's Call for Unity
BIS emphasizes the need for interoperable payment technologies and robust regulatory framework to prevent metaverse fragmentation and private interests dominance, emphasizing Central Bank Digital Currencies' importance.
AI in the Dock: B.C. Supreme Court Tackles Fabricated Legal Cases
The B.C. Supreme Court case raises concerns about AI reliability in legal proceedings, highlighting the need for regulation, education, and ethical guidelines for legal professionals.
Federal Reserve Lifts Enforcement Action on FTX-Linked Farmington Bank
The Federal Reserve has terminated its enforcement action against Farmington State Bank, linked to the collapsed crypto exchange FTX, marking the bank's shift away from operations and reinforcing depositor protection efforts.
UK Invests 100M Pound in AI: Pioneering Healthcare Innovation and Regulatory Frameworks
The UK government announces a £100 million investment to establish AI research hubs and enhance regulatory frameworks, focusing on healthcare, chemistry, and mathematics, alongside global partnerships for responsible AI practices.
UK Extends Stablecoin Regulation Consultation Period, Seeks Inclusive Feedback
The Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority have extended the feedback deadline for stablecoin regulation to February 12, aiming for a comprehensive, inclusive regulatory framework.
Brazil's Tax Authority Cracks Down on Unreported Bitcoin Holdings
The Brazilian Federal Revenue Service identifies over 25,000 individuals with undeclared bitcoins, leveraging advanced technologies to enforce tax compliance in the cryptocurrency sector, signaling increased scrutiny and regulatory measures for crypto investors.
Genesis Agrees to $21 Million SEC Settlement in Bankruptcy Resolution Effort
Genesis Global settles with the SEC for $21 million over unregistered securities sales allegations, aiming to mitigate legal challenges and focus on repaying customers amid bankruptcy proceedings. The agreement, pending a February 14 hearing, marks a significant step towards resolving the company's financial and legal hurdles.
FTX's Restructuring Plan: Aiming for Full Customer Repayment Without Relaunching Exchange
FTX aims to fully reimburse its customers and creditors as part of its restructuring plan. This approach, focusing on repayment without relaunching the exchange, is based on valuations of assets as of November 2022, drawing mixed reactions from the crypto community.
Binance Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Support for Hamas in Israel Attack
Three families of victims from the Hamas attack on Israel have filed a lawsuit against Binance, its former CEO Changpeng Zhao, Iran, and Syria, alleging their support for terrorism. The suit claims these parties provided substantial assistance to Hamas, spotlighting the challenges of regulating cryptocurrency in combating terrorism financing.
SEC Withdraws Lawsuit Against Debt Box Amid Misleading Evidence Controversy
The SEC has withdrawn its lawsuit against Debt Box, accusing it of a $50 million fraudulent scheme, paving the way for future charges and a significant shift in crypto firm regulatory landscape.
ESMA Launches Key Consultations on Crypto-Asset Regulations under MiCA
ESMA conducts consultations on reverse solicitation exemptions and classifying crypto-assets as financial instruments, aiming to harmonize EU regulations with MiFID II.
OpenAI's ChatGPT Under GDPR Investigation in Italy: Facing 30-Day Defense Deadline
Italian Data Protection Authority, Garante, has raised concerns over potential GDPR violations by OpenAI's ChatGPT, requiring OpenAI to defend its processing of personal data for 30 days.
FSB 2024 Agenda: Strengthening Crypto Regulation and Embracing AI"
The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has announced its 2024 Work Programme, focusing on crypto regulation, AI, and digital innovation, aiming to enhance global cooperation and stability in finance.
Decline in Crypto Crime: Insights into 2024 Trends and Challenges
2024 sees a notable decline in crypto crimes, with hacking and scamming activities reduced. However, ransomware and darknet markets show resurgence, emphasizing the need for enhanced security and regulatory measures in the crypto industry.
California Court Fines Crowd Machine and Metavine in ICO Case
A California court orders Crowd Machine and Metavine to pay over $20 million for an unlawful 2018 ICO, highlighting the importance of adhering to securities laws in the crypto industry.
Meta's Digital Assets Expansion: A Scrutiny by Maxine Waters
Congresswoman Maxine Waters scrutinizes Meta's trademark applications, filed in March 2022, suggesting the company's continued involvement in the digital assets ecosystem, despite previous assurances of no ongoing projects in this area.
South Korea May Reconsider Stance on Bitcoin ETFs
South Korea's Presidential Office has urged the Financial Services Commission to reconsider its stance on Bitcoin ETFs, indicating a potential shift in the country's cryptocurrency regulation, following initial warnings against U.S.-based spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Canada Tightens Crypto Asset Regulations for Public Investment Funds
The Canadian Securities Administrators propose regulatory changes for public investment funds handling crypto assets, focusing on custodianship standards and limiting direct crypto dealings to specific fund types.
Australia Evaluates Mandatory AI Rules in High-Risk Areas
Australia is considering mandatory regulations for AI development in high-risk areas, balancing innovation with public safety, ethical concerns, and global alignment in AI governance.
EBA Issues Updated Guidelines for Crypto Asset Service Providers
The European Banking Authority (EBA) extends Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing measures to include crypto firms, aiming to harmonize regulatory approaches and mitigate financial crime risks in the EU.
IRS Delays Crypto Reporting Requirements for US Businesses
The IRS delays enforcing crypto transaction reporting requirements for US businesses, pending a comprehensive regulatory framework. This follows the crypto community's concerns over the practical challenges of complying with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's rules.
South Korea Tightens Regulations on Crypto Mixers Amid Money Laundering Concerns
South Korea's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is set to introduce new regulations targeting digital asset mixers, mirroring similar moves by the US. These measures aim to curb the use of crypto mixers for illegal money laundering.
GameStop Phases Out NFT Platform in Response to Regulatory Challenges
GameStop has announced the closure of its NFT marketplace, citing regulatory uncertainty. Effective from February 2, 2024, the platform will cease operations but assures that NFTs remain accessible on the blockchain.
FTX's Bankruptcy Plan Leaves Customers Struggling Amid Crypto Market Revival
The contrast between FTX's ongoing bankruptcy proceedings and the broader crypto market's revival underscores the volatility and risks in the cryptocurrency industry.
South Korea's Stance on Virtual Currency Investment and ETFs in 2024
South Korea reaffirms its prohibition of local financial institutions from owning, buying, or investing in cryptocurrencies and businesses offering crypto, including a strict ban on cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
BitGo Secures MPI License Approval in Singapore
BitGo has received in-principle approval for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license from Singapore's MAS, allowing it to expand its crypto services in the region. This aligns with Singapore's robust regulatory standards and BitGo's commitment to security in digital asset transactions.
Edward Snowden Criticizes SEC Following Twitter Hack and False Bitcoin ETF Announcement
Whistleblower Edward Snowden has openly criticized SEC Chair Gary Gensler following a misleading Bitcoin ETF approval post on the SEC's Twitter account. Snowden's comments highlight growing concerns about the SEC's credibility and regulatory approach in the crypto industry.
Microsoft's OpenAI Investment Faces EU Merger Regulation Scrutiny
The European Commission is investigating Microsoft's investment in OpenAI, a significant partnership since 2019, under the EU Merger Regulation, as part of a larger plan to control tech giants' influence in the AI field, focusing on potential anti-competitive impacts.
Mercari Japan Embraces Bitcoin Payments
Mercari, Japan's e-commerce leader, announces Bitcoin payment integration by June 2024, leveraging its subsidiary Melcoin. This reflects Japan's advanced crypto regulatory environment, fostering digital currency adoption in commerce.
UK Cryptocurrency Exchanges Adapt to Enhanced Regulatory Standards
The UK is intensifying regulatory standards for crypto exchanges under the Financial Services and Markets Act, aiming for parity with traditional financial services. Exchanges must comply with stringent risk assessments and finance tests, impacting both domestic and offshore entities.
Upbit Singapore Secures MAS's MPI Licence
Upbit Singapore receives a Major Payment Institution license from MAS, marking a key step in its expansion and compliance with Singapore's regulatory standards in the digital asset sector.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs: A Pivotal Decision by SEC Awaits
The SEC is nearing a decision on approving spot Bitcoin ETFs, which could significantly impact the cryptocurrency market and investor sentiment, with discussions focusing on minor amendments.
Coinbase to Boost European Derivatives Market Presence with MiFID II License Acquisition
Coinbase is set to expand in the EU derivatives market by acquiring a MiFID II licensed entity in Cyprus, targeting regulated derivatives offerings like futures and options in 2024.
California Spearheads AI Ethics and Safety with Senate Bills 892 and 893
California takes a pioneering role in AI regulation with Senate Bills 892 and 893, aiming to ensure AI safety, ethics, and public benefits.
OKX Introduces Mandatory Risk-Awareness Questionnaires for UK Users
OKX aligns with UK financial regulations by introducing mandatory risk-awareness questionnaires for its users, fostering responsible cryptocurrency trading and informed decision-making.
Zhao Dong's Conviction Highlights China's Stance on Cryptocurrency and Foreign Exchange Regulation
Zhao Dong's conviction in China's OTC crypto trading case underscores the country's strict cryptocurrencies and foreign exchange regulations, warning other entities operating in similar jurisdictions.
China Dismantles $2.2 Billion Underground Banking Operation Leveraging Cryptocurrencies
Chinese authorities have dismantled a $2.2 billion underground banking network that used cryptocurrencies to bypass financial controls, seizing $28,000 worth of digital currencies.
Hong Kong to introduce comprehensive stablecoin regulation, focusing on innovation and investor protection.
Hong Kong is launching a public consultation to establish comprehensive stablecoin regulations, aiming to balance innovation with investor protection, marking a significant step in cryptocurrency governance.
Coinbase Counters Senator Warren's Allegations
Coinbase denies Sen. Warren's allegations of using ex-government officials to resist digital asset regulations, highlighting its commitment to responsible crypto regulation.
South Korea and U.S. Set for High-Level Crypto Regulatory Talks in January
South Korea's FSS Chief, Lee Bok-hyun, is set to meet with SEC Chair Gary Gensler in January to discuss cryptocurrency market regulation in light of global market changes.
FDIC Mandates New Signage for Digital Platforms Starting 2025
The FDIC has updated its signage requirements, mandating digital display of a new black and navy blue sign on websites, apps, and ATMs from 2025 to align with modern banking practices.
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.
US Government Removes Cryptocurrency AML Provisions from NDAA
The US government has removed two AML provisions relating to cryptocurrencies from the NDAA, indicating a cautious approach to crypto regulation and raising concerns about future AML measures.
South Korea Intensifies Measures Against Unlicensed Crypto Exchanges
South Korea's financial regulators are urging public disclosure of unlicensed crypto exchanges, as part of their efforts to regulate the digital asset market and safeguard investors.
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.
Jump Crypto Enters Confidential Phase in SEC vs. Terraform Labs Case
Jump Crypto has been granted access to confidential documents in the SEC vs. Terraform Labs case, allegedly implicating them in the TerraUSD devaluation and Terra's collapse.
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.
Coinbase is challenging the U.S. Treasury over the recent tornado cash sanctions
Coinbase is suing the U.S. Treasury for listing Tornado Cash on the SDN List, arguing it violates digital privacy and regulatory authority in the cryptocurrency sector.
Craig S. Wright Explores 'Code is Law' Paradigm in Digital Governance Debate
Dr. Craig Wright's blog post on "Open-Source Development" rekindles debate on "Code is Law" principle, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach balancing code precision with legal considerations.
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.
SEC Chair Gensler Open to Lawful Revival of FTX
SEC Chair Gary Gensler emphasizes regulatory standards as FTX considers legal and compliant return, following founder Sam Bankman-Fried's conviction, marking a pivotal moment in crypto regulation.
Tom Emmer's Nonpartisan Amendment to Limit SEC's Enforcement on Digital Assets Passes House
GOP Majority Whip Tom Emmer passed a House amendment restricting SEC's enforcement against digital assets until relevant legislation is enacted, highlighting the push for legislative clarity in cryptocurrency regulation.
Kazakhstan Blocks Coinbase, Citing Digital Asset Law
Kazakhstan's Ministry of Culture and Information has blocked Coinbase due to legal conflicts with digital asset regulations, revisiting previous restrictions on other financial platforms.
Coinbase Bolsters Advisory Board with Security Experts
Coinbase has enlisted four national security experts to its Global Advisory Council, including former U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, former U.S. Representative Stephanie Murphy, Counterterrorism Advisor Frances Townsend, and strategist David Urban.
US NIST Initiates AI Safety Consortium to Promote Trustworthy AI Development
The US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has launched the Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute Consortium to promote safe AI development and responsible use, inviting organizations to collaborate on identifying proven safety techniques by December 4, 2023.
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.
PayPal Acquires UK Crypto License
PayPal has secured a cryptocurrency license from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority, marking a strategic move amid post-Brexit adjustments, and transitioning UK clients from PayPal Europe to a new UK-based entity.
SEC Commissioner Expresses Dissent on LBRY Case Outcome
SEC Commissioner Hester M. Peirce criticizes the commission's enforcement action against blockchain firm LBRY, Inc., highlighting the case as an example of regulatory overreach that stifles innovation and fails to adequately protect investors. Amidst ongoing legal actions against crypto enterprises, Peirce's dissent underscores the need for a balanced regulatory approach to foster innovation and investor protection in the blockchain and crypto sectors.
California Proposes Crypto ATM Regulations Amid Rising Fraud
California lawmakers propose regulations on cryptocurrency ATMs to combat escalating fraudulent activities. The bill, dubbed "Digital Financial Asset Transaction Kiosks," recommends a daily withdrawal limit of $1,000 and a cap on operators' fees, with implementation eyed for January 1, 2024. While some victims of ATM scams applaud the measure, crypto ATM operators express concerns over the potential adverse impact on small operators.
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.
California Governor Signs Digital Financial Assets Bill, Tightening Crypto Regulations from July 2025
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Digital Financial Assets Law on October 13, 2023, initiating a robust regulatory framework for cryptocurrency activities in the state from July 1, 2025. The law necessitates licensure from the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation for individuals and businesses dealing in digital assets. This regulatory shift, contrasting Newsom’s earlier stance in 2022, aligns with broader national trends towards formalizing digital asset transactions to curb fraud and enhance consumer protection.
Cyprus Tightens Crypto Regulations with Hefty Penalties for Non-Compliance
Cyprus is tightening its cryptocurrency regulations by introducing hefty penalties for non-compliance. The government aims to align with international AML/CFT standards and has submitted a legislative amendment for review. All crypto service providers must register with CySEC, facing fines or imprisonment for non-compliance.
Coinbase CLO Responds to SEC's Opposition
Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, responded to the SEC's opposition to the company's motion to dismiss the case against it. Grewal criticized the SEC for making unsupported legal claims and emphasized that the assets listed on Coinbase are not securities. He also called for regulation that listens to the crypto community and mentioned that Coinbase will file its reply on October 24, 2023.
Binance and CEO Changpeng Zhao Face Class-Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Market Manipulation Targeting FTX
Binance and its CEO, Changpeng Zhao, are facing a class-action lawsuit filed by plaintiff Nir Lahav, accusing them of unfair competition and SEC law violations. The lawsuit alleges that Binance manipulated the cryptocurrency market to harm competitor FTX, leading to a significant decline in FTX's utility token, FTT. The case brings into focus the broader implications of regulatory efforts in the crypto industry.
Coinbase Secures Major Payment Institution License from Singapore's Monetary Authority
Coinbase has obtained a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), marking a significant milestone in its expansion into the Asian market. The license will enable Coinbase to offer digital payment token services to both individual and institutional clients in Singapore. This move aligns with the company's strategy to tap into Singapore's growing crypto and Web3 ecosystem.
How Bitcoin will react to US Government Shutdown
The impending US government shutdown threatens to delay the SEC's approval for a spot Bitcoin ETF, amongst other financial repercussions. The scenario also underscores the growing frequency of federal shutdowns and the persistent concerns of credit rating agencies over the US's fiscal policymaking, all of which could have broader implications for both traditional and crypto financial markets.
Binance CEO Clarifies Details on CommEx Integration
Binance CEO, CZ, sheds light on Binance's association with CommEX through a tweet. Cryptocurrency transfers are ongoing, with potential ex-Binance team members joining CommEX. Amid regulatory challenges, Binance sells its Russian operations to CommEX but remains optimistic about global prospects.
Enabling Innovation in Asset Management: SFC's Approach
Christina Choi of the SFC spoke at the Bloomberg Buy-Side Forum Hong Kong 2023, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with regulation in the asset management industry. She highlighted the SFC's ongoing work on guidelines for tokenization of investment products.
Taiwan's Major Crypto Exchanges Form Association to Align with Upcoming Regulations
Taiwan's major crypto exchanges form an industry association to align with upcoming regulations by the Financial Supervisory Commission. The association aims to serve as a unified voice for the industry and facilitate effective communication with the government.
Taiwan Regulates Crypto Exchanges, Bans Unregistered Foreign Operators
Taiwan's FSC has released new guidelines for regulating Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in the country. The guidelines, effective from September 26, 2023, prohibit foreign VASPs from operating in Taiwan without proper registration and encourage self-regulation within the industry.
HK SFC Details JPEX Probe; CEO Affirms Hong Kong's Web3 Commitment
Hong Kong's SFC has provided a detailed timeline of its investigation into the fraudulent activities of the unlicensed virtual asset trading platform JPEX. Despite the ongoing case, SFC CEO Leung Fung-yee reaffirms that Hong Kong's commitment to developing a Web3 ecosystem will not waver.
South Korea Targets Crypto Major Shareholders with Proposed Financial Law Amendment
South Korea is taking steps to scrutinize the criminal records of major shareholders in cryptocurrency businesses. A proposed amendment to the Special Financial Information Law aims to bring the crypto market under a regulatory framework similar to traditional finance. If passed, the law would require existing crypto businesses to report details about their major shareholders within three months.
SEC Charges Citadel Securities Over Short Sale Regulation Violations
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has charged broker-dealer Citadel Securities for non-compliance with Regulation SHO, a framework aimed at curbing abusive short selling practices. Citadel Securities has agreed to pay a $7 million penalty to settle the charges, which involve mislabeled millions of orders over five years due to a coding error within its automated trading system.
KuCoin's Emphasis on Self-Regulation and User Security Highlighted at TOKEN2049
Alicia Kao, KuCoin's Managing Director, discussed the challenges and opportunities of cryptocurrency exchanges during the TOKEN2049 panel. She highlighted the importance of self-regulation and KuCoin's strict security protocols. KuCoin, a leading global exchange, has a user base of 29 million and endorses over 750 projects. The panel provided valuable insights into the crypto industry's future direction.
US Treasury and IRS Propose New Regulations on Digital Asset Reporting
The US Department of the Treasury and the IRS have issued proposed regulations to improve transparency and compliance in the digital asset sector. Starting Jan. 1, 2025, brokers must report gross proceeds, payee statements, and gain/loss and basis information for sales. The regulations aim to close the tax gap and ensure uniformity in tax rules.
Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission Drafts New Crypto Regulations
Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission drafts crypto regulations for 2023, focusing on anti-money laundering, token issuance, asset segregation, and transparent trading. Overseas platforms face advertising restrictions.
Indian Supreme Court Expresses Discontent Over Lack of Crypto Regulations
The absence of defined rules and regulations governing cryptocurrencies in India has lately drawn the attention of the country's Supreme Court.
FSB Releases High-Level Recommendations for Global Stablecoin Regulation
The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has published a comprehensive report outlining key recommendations for the regulation, supervision, and oversight of global stablecoin (GSC) arrangements. The report aims to address potential financial stability risks posed by GSCs at both the domestic and international level.
European Securities and Markets Authority Calls for Input on New EU Crypto Rules
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU's financial markets regulator, has initiated its first consultation package under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The authority is seeking stakeholder comments until September 20, 2023, marking a significant step towards establishing concrete rules for crypto markets in the EU.
Danish FSA Orders Saxo Bank to Divest Crypto Holdings, Indicating Tightening Regulation
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) on July 4, 2023, issued a directive to Saxo Bank, instructing the financial institution to divest its holdings in cryptoassets. This move is based on the current legal framework, which prohibits banks from trading cryptoassets for their own account.
Senator Michael Bennet Urges Tech Giants to Curb AI-Generated Misinformation
U.S. Senator Michael Bennet from Colorado has today called on leaders of prominent technology and artificial intelligence (AI) companies, including Meta, Alphabet, Microsoft, Twitter, TikTok, and OpenAI, to implement proactive strategies to combat the proliferation of misleading AI-generated content.
UK Embraces Crypto Innovation with Groundbreaking Financial Services Act
The UK government has taken a bold step forward in the financial services sector, embracing the dynamic world of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology with the passing of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023.
eToro and Robinhood Modify U.S. Cryptocurrency Offerings Amidst Regulatory Changes
The global cryptocurrency landscape is witnessing significant shifts, with leading trading platforms, eToro and Robinhood, adjusting their U.S. cryptocurrency offerings. Both platforms are responding to the rapidly evolving regulatory environment in the United States, affecting popular cryptocurrencies such as Algorand (ALGO), Decentraland (MANA), Dash (DASH), Polygon (MATIC), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA).
Binance Halts Certain Trading Pairs and Disables PayID AUD Deposits Amid Tightening Australian Regulations
In an ongoing adaptation to tighter Australian regulations, Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, has announced significant changes affecting its Australian users.
UK Legislators Advocate for Treating Crypto Trading Similar to Gambling Regulations
The report also calls for a shift in the regulatory approach towards unbacked cryptoassets, such as Bitcoin and Ether. Due to their volatility and lack of intrinsic value, the committee argues that these assets pose substantial risks to consumers, likening speculation in these assets to gambling.
Australian Crypto Community Remains Enthusiastic Despite Regulatory Concerns
Despite regulatory concerns dominating discussions at recent crypto conferences in the US and Australia, the crypto community remains enthusiastic about the potential of digital assets. Attendees are more focused on discussing intelligent questions around regulation and tax rather than the extravagances of past events. Interest in crypto remains high, and the rise in the price of Bitcoin is encouraging the crypto-curious to attend conferences and ask beginner-level questions.
Crypto Conferences Scale Back
Crypto conferences have toned down the extravagance in response to the extended crypto winter, with attendees focusing on discussing regulation and tax. The XRP Las Vegas conference for XRP enthusiasts and the “XRP Army” highlighted frustration over regulatory clarity in the United States. Meanwhile, regulation was the primary topic at a recent Binance Australia meetup event, where attendees asked intelligent questions despite the ongoing bear market. Interest in crypto remains strong, even as conferences scale back.
Japan Concerned About AI Chatbots
A new survey in Japan reveals that 69.4% of the population wants stricter regulation in the development of AI chatbots. This comes as Japanese officials consider integrating AI into their systems.
US Bank Regulators Confess Mistakes
US bank regulators have admitted to errors in supervision after high-profile bank failures, with the New York Department of Financial Services publishing its review of Signature Bank and the US Federal Reserve Board releasing its review of Silicon Valley Bank.
EU Drafts AI Bill to Address Copyright Concerns
The European Union has passed a draft bill that will classify AI tools according to their risk level and impose stricter transparency procedures for high-risk tools. The bill is part of the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act and aims to address concerns around the use of copyrighted materials in AI training.
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.
EU to Regulate AI Use of Copyrighted Material
The European Union has passed a draft bill to regulate AI use of copyrighted materials. AI tools will be classified according to their risk level, with high-risk tools subjected to stricter transparency procedures. The bill is part of the EU's Artificial Intelligence Act and aims to strike a balance between protecting citizens and fostering innovation.
Blockchain Fights Climate Change
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has published a white paper outlining how blockchain technology can aid in the fight against climate change. Blockchain can improve market transparency, enhance trust and ambition within climate negotiations, democratize access to climate action, and funnel more funds to project developers. The WEF also stressed the need for constructive regulation to support digital climate innovation.
South Korea Grants Central Bank More Power Over Crypto
The Bank of Korea (BoK) has been given more power to investigate cryptocurrency service providers, including the ability to request transaction data from crypto exchanges. The move comes amid ongoing discussions on virtual asset legislation in South Korea, with the Financial Services Commission (FSC) holding the final say on the regulation of the digital asset sector. The two institutions have been at odds for several years over crypto regulations.
US Treasury Suggests Easier Oversight for Nonbank Financial Institutions
The US Treasury and top financial regulators have proposed new rules to ease the Federal Reserve's designation of nonbank institutions as systemically important. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen raised concerns over nonbank institutions' lack of supervision and the potential for financial contagion during periods of distress.
Biden's Communications Director Restricted From Handling Crypto Firms
President Joe Biden's communications director, Ben LaBolt, will be barred from handling matters related to any cryptocurrency or technology firms he previously represented, but he will be allowed to advise on crypto regulation. LaBolt has disclosed owning $50,001-$100,000 in Bitcoin and $15,001-$50,000 in Ethereum 2. The restrictions are in line with ethics rules followed by senior White House staff.
US Treasury to Increase DeFi Regulation
The US Treasury conducted a risk assessment of DeFi, finding it lacking in AML/CFT compliance, and reported money laundering, scammers, and North Korean hackers benefiting from the sector. The Treasury response to Biden's executive order suggests more regulation for DeFi, including compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act.
European Union Introduces Comprehensive Crypto Law
The European Union has introduced a new crypto licensing regime called Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA), making it the first major jurisdiction in the world to introduce a comprehensive crypto law. The EU also voted in favor of a Transfer of Funds regulation that requires crypto operators to identify their customers in a bid to halt money laundering.
Bitget Registers as a Service Provider in Lithuania
Bitget has registered as a service provider in Lithuania after meeting compliance standards with regional laws and regulations. Lithuania is an emerging digital asset market and a popular location for cryptocurrency and blockchain projects.
Kraken Irish Subsidiary Awarded VASP Authorization by Central Bank of Ireland
Payward Europe Solutions, Kraken's Irish subsidiary, has been granted VASP authorization by the Central Bank of Ireland. This authorization comes at a critical time as the EU is set to vote on the MiCA regulation, which requires all companies operating as a crypto assets service provider in the EU to register with an authorized regulator.
US House Committee to Discuss Stablecoin Regulation
The US House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services will conduct a hearing on stablecoin regulation on April 19th, following the introduction of a draft bill on stablecoin regulation. The hearing will include testimonies from experts, including Austin Campbell, a managing partner at Zero Knowledge Consulting and adjunct professor at Columbia Business School, who believes stablecoins will expand the reach of the US dollar and increase financial inclusion.
UK Aims to Implement Crypto Regulation Soon
The UK plans to establish digital asset regulation within a year to take advantage of blockchain's benefits for the private sector and the economy, according to Andrew Griffith, the economic secretary to the UK Treasury.
NYDFS to Assess Supervisory Costs from Licensed Crypto Firms
The NYDFS will assess supervisory costs from licensed crypto firms in the state of New York to add top talent to its virtual currency team. This new regulation provides the Department with additional tools and resources to regulate the virtual currency industry.
US House Committee Chair Criticizes SEC on Digital Assets
US House Financial Services Committee Chair Patrick McHenry criticized the SEC’s approach to digital assets at an oversight hearing, demanding clear rules for crypto through legislation and pressing SEC Chair Gary Gensler for a definitive answer on whether Ether qualified as a security or a commodity.
Legislation Introduced to Remove SEC Chair Gensler from His Role
United States Representative Warren Davidson has announced plans to introduce legislation that would remove SEC Chair Gary Gensler from his role and replace it with an Executive Director that reports to the Board. The move follows the SEC's proposed rule amendments that could bring certain brokers under additional regulatory scrutiny and redefine an "exchange." While Gensler has said the proposed changes could benefit investors and markets, SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has criticized the move, accusing the regulator of stifling new technology and entrepreneurship. The SEC has faced criticism for using enforcement actions to develop the law on a case-by-case basis, rather than creating clear regulations.
Chinese Banks Embrace Crypto in Hong Kong
Chinese banks are collaborating with cryptocurrency companies in Hong Kong, providing account services and acting as settlement banks. Despite China's crackdown on crypto in the mainland, the country's state-affiliated banks are building partnerships in Hong Kong, taking advantage of the city's push to become a crypto hub.
BlackStar Seeks SEC Registration for On-Chain Stock Trading
BlackStar Enterprise Group plans to conduct over-the-counter stock trading on-chain and has sought registration with the SEC after two years of development and regulatory communication.
US Draft Bill Proposes Framework for Stablecoins
A new draft bill has been published in the United States proposing a regulatory framework for stablecoins. The bill would put the Federal Reserve in charge of non-bank stablecoin issuers, such as Tether and Circle. Insured depository institutions seeking to issue stablecoins would fall under federal banking agency supervision. The bill also includes a ban on issuing stablecoins not backed by tangible assets and proposes a study on "endogenously collateralized stablecoins."
Binance CEO Emphasizes Importance of Understanding Crypto for Proper Regulation
During a fireside chat at the Hong Kong Web3 Festival, Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) discussed the importance of regulators having a deep understanding of the crypto industry to properly regulate it. He emphasized the need for regulatory clarity and engagement with regulators. CZ also suggested that government efforts to restrict traditional financial markets may push more people towards crypto, ultimately leading to mass adoption.
US SEC Hiring Attorneys for Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit
The US SEC is hiring general attorneys in New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. for its Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit in the Division of Enforcement. The job will involve investigating crypto asset securities and cyber issues, drafting subpoenas, and questioning witnesses. This move comes after the SEC chairman Gary Gensler asked for $2.4 billion in funding to chase down crypto misconduct.
Hong Kong Embraces Web3 Despite Crypto Market Volatility
Hong Kong's financial secretary, Paul Chan, has emphasized the need for the city to embrace Web3 technology, despite the fluctuations in the crypto market. Chan has proposed a strategy that focuses on proper regulation and promoting development to facilitate Web3's steady growth. He also noted that Hong Kong plans to prioritize financial security, prevent systemic risks, and focus on investor education and protection. The region's approach to crypto regulation contrasts with that of the United States, which has adopted a more hardline response to the industry.
Arkansas passes Bitcoin mining regulation bill
Arkansas has passed a bill to regulate Bitcoin mining activity in the state, protecting miners from discriminatory regulations and taxes. Digital asset miners must pay applicable taxes and operate without causing stress to public utility generation capabilities. The move follows a similar initiative in Montana and New York's proof-of-work mining moratorium.
IOSCO to Consult on Crypto Regulation
The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) plans to launch a consultation for its crypto asset regulation report in Q2 2023. The final recommendations are expected to be published by the end of 2023, with separate workflows dedicated to crypto assets and decentralized finance.
Japan's Web3 Project Team Releases White Paper to Boost Crypto Industry
Japan's Web3 Project Team, a part of the country's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has released a white paper with recommendations for expanding the country's cryptocurrency industry. The paper suggests modifications to tax regulations, establishing accounting standards, and creating a DAO law, among other proposals.
Bitcoin Liquidity Drops Despite Price Surge
Despite a 45% price gain, Bitcoin's liquidity has dropped to a 10-month low due to the ongoing financial crisis and regulatory actions against crypto companies. The collapse of crypto-friendly banks has led to a liquidity crisis, causing increased price volatility and higher fees for traders.
Japan's FSA Warns Binance and Others for Operating Without Registration
Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) has warned several foreign cryptocurrency exchanges, including Binance, of conducting business in the country without proper registration, violating the nation's fund settlement laws. The FSA has been cracking down on unregistered crypto exchanges since 2020, and this warning signifies that the cryptocurrency industry in Japan and other nations is facing greater regulatory scrutiny.
Stablecoin Depeg Event Reveals Risks to DeFi and Traditional Finance
Recent failures of established financial institutions, such as Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, have highlighted the potential for distress to spread to the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector. The depegging of stablecoins, including Circle's USD coin (USDC), has also brought governance risks related to the custody of reserve assets to the forefront. Moody's anticipates that regulators could increase their scrutiny of stablecoins and require greater counterparty diversification.
US Crypto Crackdown Could Push Industry to Hong Kong
Paris-based Kaiko's CEO, Ambre Soubiran, has suggested that the recent US crackdown on cryptocurrency regulation could lead to a shift in the industry's center of gravity towards Hong Kong, which has been more favorable towards crypto. The Hong Kong government has been rolling out progressive regulation to support crypto and fintech firms in 2023, with over 80 virtual asset-related firms expressing interest in setting up shop there.
Sango Coin Listing Delayed in Central African Republic
The launch of the Central African Republic's Sango Coin has been postponed for a few weeks due to legal and regulatory obstacles. The Sango Project, which is behind the initiative, stated that the delay is necessary to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
Bermuda Remains Committed to Crypto Despite FTX Collapse
Bermuda's Premier and Finance Minister, Edward Burt, stated that despite the collapse of crypto exchange FTX in nearby Bahamas, Bermuda will continue to accommodate digital asset and blockchain technology companies due to the benefits they offer. The territory, which implemented a regulatory framework for digital assets, recently released its first stablecoin powered by the Polygon blockchain.
Regulated Stablecoins Likely to Remain in Use by 2030
A panel of digital regulatory experts at the World of Web3 (WOW) Summit in Hong Kong discussed the future of regulated stablecoins. The group concluded that regulated stablecoins are likely to remain in use by 2030 and that their growth rate in the market supports this idea. The panelists acknowledged the growth of the crypto industry and emphasized the importance of both centralized and decentralized approaches to digital assets.
Australian Senator Proposes Digital Asset Regulation Bill
Senator Andrew Bragg has proposed a Digital Assets (Market Regulation) Bill 2023 to regulate cryptocurrency services in Australia. The bill recommends stablecoin regulations, licensing of exchanges, and custody requirements to protect consumers and promote investment.
European Crypto Startups See Record VC Investment in 2022
Despite a challenging year for the crypto industry in 2022, VC investment in European crypto startups reached an all-time high of $5.7 billion, with decentralized finance startups seeing a 120% increase in investments. Europe is also home to the highest number of crypto startups, but lags behind the US in unicorns and startups with over $1 million in funding. Investment in financial service-based startups declined by 19% compared to 2021, while infrastructure grew by 24%. The EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets regulations are set for a final vote in April 2023.
Mastercard Enables USDC Spending in Asia
Mastercard has partnered with Stables to allow retail customers in the Asia-Pacific region to spend and save USDC through its network. Meanwhile, worldwide banking turmoil has not slowed the blending of traditional and decentralized finance (DeFi).
Global payment provider Mastercard has expanded its partnership with the Australian stablecoin platform, Stables, to enable retail customers in the Asia-Pacific region to spend and save USDC anywhere Mastercard is accepted. The wallet will accept deposits in several stablecoins, including Tether (USDT) and Binance USD (BUSD), with all deposits automatically converted into USDC. This move comes as worldwide banking turmoil and regulatory crackdowns continue to impact the crypto space.
Coinbase warns of losing crypto industry leadership
The U.S. SEC has issued a Wells notice to Coinbase. As a result, Coinbase warns that the U.S. government’s regulatory approach to crypto has created an uncertain and unstable environment. Meanwhile, other countries, such as France, the U.K., and the European Union, are building friendlier crypto regulation ecosystems and becoming crypto hubs, causing the U.S. to lose its status as the leading hub of the crypto sector.
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.
Banking crisis could push cryptocurrency regulation into gray area
Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire believes that the ongoing global banking crisis could lead to more uncertainty and gray area in the regulation of cryptocurrencies due to market anxiety over exposure to the US financial system and the risk of a large-scale banking system failure.
OKX to Halt Services in Canada Due to New Regulations
Cryptocurrency exchange OKX has notified its Canadian users that it will no longer provide services or allow new account openings in Canada, starting on March 24, 2023, due to new regulations. Existing Canadian customers must close open positions in options, margins, perpetual, and futures by June 22, 2023, and fiat or tokens must be withdrawn by the same date.
US Banking Crisis Fuels Regulation Debate
The recent fall of major banks in the US has reignited discussions about the most effective ways to safeguard the economy. Economist Peter Schiff argues that increasing banking regulations could contribute to a worsening economic crisis, while a group of economists warns that nearly 190 US banks are at risk of depositor-driven collapse due to monetary policies.
FTX Founder Allegedly Sought Federal Regulation Before Collapse
FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried allegedly sought federal regulation for the crypto exchange before its collapse and his resignation as CEO. A leaked email exchange with a top regulator showed Bankman-Fried's intent to meet with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation chairman in June 2022.
Moody warns of stablecoin adoption risk
Moody's Investors Service has warned that the recent turmoil in the traditional banking sector and USDC losing its peg could negatively impact stablecoin adoption and increase calls for regulation. The credit rating agency believes that fiat-backed stablecoins like USDC could face new resistance, limiting their stability and potentially causing a run on banks holding Circle's assets, which could lead to the depegging of other stablecoins.
Crypto Advocacy Group Calls on Regulators to Address De-Banking of Crypto Firms
The Blockchain Association has submitted Freedom of Information Act requests to U.S. financial regulators, seeking documents and communications that could reveal if regulators’ actions have contributed to the recent failures of banks that provide services to crypto firms. The association is investigating allegations of account closures and refusals to open new accounts by banks against crypto firms, which it believes should be treated like any other law-abiding business in the U.S.
Banks increase risks to stablecoins
The death of the Terra ecosystem triggered a bear market in 2022, causing losses in billions, affecting investor sentiment, and intensifying the regulatory spotlight over cryptocurrencies. Recently, Circle's disclosure that Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) did not process its $3.3 billion withdrawal request led to the depegging of its USD Coin (USDC). This event caused Binance CEO CZ to believe that traditional banks are a risk to stablecoins that are usually pegged 1:1 with fiat currencies, like the U.S. dollar.
US Federal Reserve to Create Cryptocurrency Team Amid Concerns Over Unregulated Stablecoins
The US Federal Reserve is planning to establish a specialized team of experts to keep up with developments in the cryptocurrency industry, specifically focusing on stablecoins. The move comes amid concerns that unregulated stablecoins could put households, businesses, and the broader economy at risk. While acknowledging the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies, the Federal Reserve believes that appropriate guardrails need to be in place to ensure that the benefits of innovation can be realized.
Nigerian President-elect's Manifesto Includes Blockchain and Crypto Regulations
Nigerian President-elect Bola Tinubu has released a manifesto proposing the implementation of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies in Nigeria's banking and finance sector. The manifesto suggests reforming existing Nigerian Security Exchange Commission regulations to create a more business-friendly framework for regulating digital assets. The proposed regulations would require digital asset companies to register with the SEC and comply with SEC regulations. The release of the manifesto coincides with the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies in Nigeria, with the government hoping that the proposed SEC regulation reforms will attract more investors in the digital and economic sectors and stimulate economic growth.
Russian Crypto Advocates Urge Putin to Address Delayed Regulations
The Russian Association of Crypto Industry and Blockchain (RACIB) has written an open letter to President Vladimir Putin urging him to address the risks of delayed cryptocurrency regulations in Russia. The letter argues that Russia has been too slow to implement legal regimes for crypto adoption and highlights the potential complications of proposed amendments to the current crypto law.
Ripple CEO Warns SEC's "Enforcement" Approach May Hurt US Crypto Industry
Ripple CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, has suggested that the US Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) approach to regulation is putting the US at risk of missing out on being an attractive hub for the next evolution of blockchain and crypto innovation. Garlinghouse noted that the SEC's case against Ripple is the SEC simply playing "offense" and "attacking" the industry as a whole. He added that the crypto industry has "already started moving outside" of the US given its crypto regulation process is "behind" other countries such as Australia, UK, Japan, Singapore, and Switzerland.
G20 Announces Standards for Global Crypto Regulation
G20 countries have announced that the Financial Stability Board, the International Monetary Fund, and the Bank for International Settlements will release recommendations on global crypto regulation by July.
IMF Prioritizes Regulation over Ban on Crypto
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) supports regulating digital money and prioritizes differentiating between central bank digital currencies and crypto assets, such as stablecoins. The IMF's Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, clarified that the nuclear option to ban cryptocurrencies remains on the table, but the agency would prefer to pursue good regulations, predictability, and consumer protection.
Crypto Staking in South Korea: Balancing Innovation and Regulation
Balancing innovation and regulation in South Korea's crypto industry, with regulators concerned about staking's potential risks to consumers and market stability.
South Korea Regulator Probes Crypto Staking Services
South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service checks exchanges' crypto staking services for legality.
Indonesia's State-Backed Crypto Exchange: An Analysis
Indonesia's state-backed crypto exchange aims to promote transparency, accountability, and investor protection. It is expected to boost crypto adoption.
Indonesia to Launch State-Backed Crypto Exchange by Mid-2023
Indonesia plans to launch a state-backed crypto exchange by mid-2023 to promote a more secure and transparent market, with greater regulatory oversight and investor protection.
G20 To Establish Standards For Global Crypto Regulatory Framework
The Financial Stability Board, IMF, and BIS will propose worldwide crypto regulations.
FATF Releases Action Plan to Improve Implementation of Global Standards on Crypto
Over 200 governments agreed to tighten the "application of FATF Standards on virtual assets and virtual asset service providers".
The IMF Releases a Report on Jordan Preparations for a Central Bank
The IMF published a technical analysis on Jordan's retail central bank digital currency.
Lawyers for SBF time to discuss additional bail conditions
Sam Bankman-lawyers Fried's requested extra time to negotiate bail terms and identify a technical expert.
IMF Urges Countries to Consider Banning Cryptocurrencies
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen underlined the need for effective cryptocurrency regulation.
Grayscale CEO challenges SEC's denial of application
If GBTC becomes a spot BTC ETF, Grayscale Investments CEO Michael Sonnenshein stated investors will get a "few of billion dollars" back.
A Colombian court recently hosted its first legal trial in the metaverse
The metaverse hosted Colombia's Magdalena Administrative Court's February 15 session. Maria Quinones, the court's Magistrate, called it "realer than a video call."
FTX Japan users withdraw funds amid litigation
Due to the large number of FTX-SBF victims, payment is projected to take time.
G20 Discusses Crypto Regulations Under India Presidency
G20 members reviewed technological advancements and dangers during the FMCBG conference on Feb. 24–25.
Binance Australia Derivatives Closes Accounts After False Classification
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission would "target" the company's "classification of retail and wholesale customers."
Scammers Target Australians in Cryptocurrency Call Center Scheme
An Israeli-run cryptocurrency fraud targets Australians, according to a raid on Eastern European scam call centers.
Former facilities worker who allegedly set up a secret cryptocurrency mining operation
After skipping a court arraignment session, Nadeam Nahas faces arrest for using a school's energy for bitcoin mining.
Forsage Founders Indicted for Alleged $340 Million "Global Ponzi" Scheme on Ethereum Blockchain
Oregon's federal grand jury indicted Forsage's founders. "Global Ponzi and pyramid scam" investors lost $340 million on the site.
A cryptocurrency mining rights bill prohibit the discrimination of crypto
The Montana Senate approved a law to protect cryptocurrency miners from discrimination.
Circle CEO Criticizes SEC Stablecoin regulations
As payment systems, stablecoins are not securities, according to Circle's CEO.
The Fed Rejects Custodia Bank's Membership Application
The Fed rejected cryptocurrency-focused Custodia Bank membership again, citing "sound banking operations."
New York Attorney General Letitia James Sues CoinEx
CoinEx was sued by New York Attorney General Letitia James for selling bitcoin without registering.
Chamber of Digital Commerce argues the SEC is overstepping its authority
The Chamber of Digital Commerce submitted an amicus brief asking the SEC to drop its case against former Coinbase employee Ishan Wahi for insider trading, alleging that the agency is trying to classify secondary market transactions as securities.
Blockchain Association Rejects Court's Securities Ruling on Private Blockchains
A U.S. lawyer called it "absurd" for a court to declare digital assets on centralized databases securities.
Celebrities asked to dismiss second amended complaint in class-action lawsuit
Kim Kardashian, Floyd Mayweather, and others claim investors "suffered no damage from just hanging onto the tokens" in their dismissal request.
Binance.US Could Be in Violation of Securities Law
SEC opposes Binance. US acquisition of nearly $1 billion in Voyager Digital assets.
Former FTX CEO faces 12 criminal charges
District Judge Lewis Kaplan released a 12-count superseding indictment against Sam Bankman-Fried.
POSA Publishes Two White Papers
The nonprofit cryptocurrency industry group Proof of Stake Alliance (POSA) has produced papers on receipt token legality.
NFTs belonging to bankrupt hedge fund to be sold by liquidators
The liquidators said the "Starry Night Portfolio" of NFTs would not be sold.
Former FTX CEO's attorneys agree to pay for security expert to assist
SBF's lawyers sent a short letter to Judge Kaplan agreeing to employ a tech expert for the fraud case.
US Congress needs to take control of crypto legislation
Blockchain Association CEO Kristin Smith said crypto regulation is occurring "behind closed doors" and asked for a more collaborative and "transparent approach."
BIS has long taken a cautious approach
Agustin Carstens mocks crypto and Bitcoin. Tech doesn't work for money, he told Bloomberg.
Institutional investors pull back from crypto amid regulatory crackdown
Last week, institutional fund withdrawals reached $32 million, despite a 10% market increase.
US Representative Tom Emmer Introduces Legislation to Limit Fed
Representative Tom Emmer presented the "CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act" to encourage financial privacy and CBDC transparency.
A British National Charged With Aiding North Korea in Violating US sanctions
Despite the DoJ's crypto financial sanctions targeting Russia, local authorities helped their American colleagues.
CBN is continuing to develop its eNaira
R3, the CBN's possible technology partner, will help design a new system to give the CBN complete authority over the CBDC.
Paxos Discusses BUSD Stablecoin With SEC Following Wells
Paxos CEO Charles Cascarilla said the business was "engaged in productive negotiations" with the SEC and will continue to communicate privately.
The Most Unworkable State Law
An Illinois senator has presented a law that would compel crypto node operators, miners, and validators to reverse transactions if ordered by the court, even though it's impossible.
Public feedback on the SFC's proposed cryptocurrency exchange licensing regime
Hong Kong's Securities and Futures Commission seeks public input on bitcoin exchange registration.
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried to Appear in court remotely
According to a Feb. 18 court filing, Sam Bankman-Fried has days to provide documentation to Voyager Digital's unsecured creditors committee.
ShapeShift Responds to Elizabeth Warren
Shapeshift responded to Senator Warren's Valentine's Day Senate hearing statements on Twitter on Feb. 19.
Custodia Bank CEO Caitlin Long Slams Regulators
The Custodia Bank CEO joins other crypto leaders in criticizing Washington's "regulation by enforcement" strategy.
Nishad Singh Negotiating Plea Deal in FTX Bankrupt
The co-founder and former chief engineer of insolvent cryptocurrency exchange FTX, Nishad Singh, is reportedly close to a settlement with federal authorities.
Binance CEO Denies Report That Company Is Cutting Ties With US
Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao denied that the business is contemplating leaving the US on Twitter.
Paul Pierce settles with SEC for $1.4 million
Paul Pierce settled with the SEC for promoting EthereumMax on social media without reporting his compensation.
Bank of Russia to Debut Digital Ruble in April 2023
The Bank of Russia is planning a consumer pilot for the digital ruble and a gold-backed cryptocurrency.
Japan to Launch Central Bank Digital Currency Pilot in April 2023
Private enterprises will test "digital yen" and CBDC ecosystem modeling in the trial.
The Financial Stability Board (FSB) is pushing for international regulations
Global standard-setting organisations are helping the Financial Stability Board evaluate DeFi legislation in numerous countries.
Wyoming lawmakers pass bill prohibiting courts from forcing disclosure of digital asset
Wyoming, a crypto-friendly state, enacted a measure banning private key disclosure. If Governor Mark Gordon approves, it will take effect July 1.
Binance Expects Fines in U.S. Investigations
Binance intends to pay U.S. authorities for past compliance inquiries and crimes.
SEC panel votes in favor of proposal that may make it more difficult
The US Securities Exchange and Commission has proposed new laws that would make it harder for crypto businesses to supply custody solutions. Opponents think this will hurt.
Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville reintroduces legislation allowing United States 401k
Senator Tommy Tuberville proposed legislation to reverse Department of Labor regulation on 401(k) investments, including crypto.
The identities of the guarantors who signed on as sureties
Judge Lewis Kaplan approved multiple news outlets' plea to reveal two of Sam Bankman-bail Fried's guarantors, who signed for $200,000 and $500,000.
The European Commission Announces the Launch of the European Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox
The European Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox helps 20 projects each year obtain legal and regulatory support from the European Commission.
Former Tmon CEO faces arrest for taking bribes to promote Terra Classic
According to South Korean authorities, advertising raised the price of Terra Classic token LUNC.
Silvergate Bank as defendants in a proposed class-action lawsuit from an FTX user
FTX users have suggested a class-action lawsuit against Silvergate Capital Corp., Silvergate Bank, and CEO Alan Lane.
FTX investors file class-action suit against Sequoia
FTX investor class-action lawsuit venture capital companies have a "tricky case," according to a crypto lawyer.
Celsius Creditors to Sue Executives for Fraud
The Celsius Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors alleges "substantial claims and causes of action" against Alex Mashinsky and other executives for fiduciary breaches and fraudulent transactions.
LidoDAO is considering selling or staking its $30 million
LidoDAO, the decentralized autonomous organization behind Lido, is considering staking or selling its $30 million ETH treasury to meet unexpected market swings.
What the U.S. Congress Decides on Crypto Will Ultimately Overstepping their authority
Jake Chervinsky, the Blockchain Association's chief policy officer, criticized the SEC's enforcement-based regulation and urged Congress to regulate the sector.
Circle Denies Receiving 'Wells Notice' Over USDC
Circle's CSO refused SEC Wells notices for its USDC token.
Many Lawmakers and Witnesses Call for hearing exploring the crash of the crypto market
At a Senate Banking Committee meeting dubbed "Crypto Fall," financial professionals and politicians discussed how to address the crypto market crash.
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried Used VPN
Sam Bankman-Fried used a VPN on Jan. 29 and Feb. 12, according to a U.S. Attorney. His attorneys maintain he was only watching football.
The United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority is cracking down on unregistered cryptocurrency
West Yorkshire crypto ATM operators were penalized by the Financial Conduct Authority.
SEC plans to propose new rule changes that could impact crypto firms
The SEC is still deciding on a "qualified custodian."
BUSD, Paxos, and the Recent Scrutiny of Paxos
Matrixport's director of research believed Paxos' BUSD supervision was too lax, prompting regulatory attention. Stablecoins are not the goal.
Reversing Censorship on Ethereum
Ethereum presently has 47% OFAC-compliant blocks, the lowest since Oct 11.
Banks Holding Cryptocurrencies Face Strict New Regulations in European Parliament
The European Parliament must approve a new crypto exposure policy for banks.
U.S. District Judge Kevin Castel Grants Request to Defer civil cases
On Feb. 13, Manhattan District Judge Kevin Castel granted the applications to suspend the civil proceedings "without prejudice" until the DOJ's trial against SBF begins.
Paxos Trust Company Disagrees With U.S. Securities
Paxos, a stablecoin issuer, received an SEC Wells notice earlier this month and "categorically denies" that BUSD is a securities.
Binance, Circle, and Paxos Receive Regulatory Scrut
Stablecoin issuer Circle supplied the NYDFS blockchain evidence claiming Binance's reserves were inadequate to sustain its currency.
CBUAE Plans to Launch Central Bank Digital Currency
The government plans a uniform, rapid card payment platform.
Coinbase Executives Stand Up for Crypto Staking Services
Crypto trading Coinbase officials deny its crypto staking services are securities.
SEC Chair Gary Gensler Called Out by House Representatives Over FTX
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried was supposed to appear before the House Financial Services Committee in December. Lawmakers are questioning his arrest.
FTX's Physical Assets in the Bahamas
FTX Digital's liquidators bought 52 homes, $2.4 million in cars, and 13 storage facilities, according to an affidavit.
Kazakhstan plans to reduce tax fraud and unlawful business operations
The obligation will gather "information on the revenue of digital miners and digital mining pools for tax purposes" starting Jan. 1, 2024.
SEC Chair Gary Gensler Warns Crypto Companies
Kraken agreed to shut down its U.S. staking services and initiatives, but SEC chair Gary Gensler advised other businesses to “come in and respect the law.”
Mississippi State Senate Passes Bill to Protect Crypto Miners
The Mississippi state senate approved a law to shield the bitcoin mining business from unfair "regulatory hurdles."
Kraken Agrees to Cease Staking Services for U.S. Clients
Kraken settled with the SEC by ending its staking program and paying $30 million in disgorgement, prejudgment interest, and civil penalties.
The U.S. government's regulatory strategy towards crypto firms
US officials reportedly discourage banks from serving the bitcoin business.
Creditors, Borrowers, and US Trustee Object to Celsius delaying reorganization plan
Celsius received objections from the unsecured creditors committee, Withhold account holders, the U.S. Trustee, and borrowers to extend the restructuring plan deadline.
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried Restricted from Using encrypted messaging apps
Judge Lewis Kaplan ordered former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried to stop using encrypted chat applications as a condition of his $250-million bail release.
Tether Completes Reserves Attestation by Major Global Accounting Firm
BDO, a global accounting company, has attested Tether's reserves.
Russia Gives Tax Incentives to Crypto Miners
Russia offers tax benefits for crypto mining investors during tough times.
Global Efforts to Classify Cryptocurrencies
Cryptodata website 21Shares and CoinGecko have launched a worldwide crypto asset classification system.
SEC to Keep Close Watch on Crypto Brokers and Advisers
The SEC stated the 2023 review goals would ensure crypto brokers and advisors follow "respectful standards of care."
South Korean Officials Confirm They Sent Team to Serbia to Find Do Kwon
South Korean authorities have increased their search for Do Kwon and deployed state officials to Serbia.
Voyager Digital Subpoenas FTX Executives
Kirkland & Ellis, Voyager Digital's attorneys, subpoenaed FTX co-founders Sam Bankman-Fried and Gary Wang, former Alameda Research CEO Caroline Ellis, and FTX executive Ramnik Arora for DOJ and SEC case papers.
The UK is a step closer to launching a central bank digital currency
The Bank of England thinks crypto stablecoins and a central-bank-issued "digital pound" might coexist.
Guarantors of Sam Bankman-Fried's Bail Bond signed off
Sam Bankman-legal Fried's team challenged U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan's order to reveal the two secret parties who signed his $250 million bail bond deal.
VARA Issues New Guidelines for Virtual Asset Service Providers in Dubai
VARA's "Full Market Product Regulations" comprise four mandatory and activity-specific rulebooks for running VASPs.
CEO Sues Board Members for Seizing Control of Crypto Miner
Layer1 Technologies CEO John Harney sued two board members for profiting from mining activities.
Former Coinbase Product Manager Seeks to Dismiss SEC Charges of Insider Trading
Ten lawyers from five law firms filed a move to dismiss an SEC insider trading lawsuit against two brothers, calling the regulator "wrong" and lacking government authorisation.
The Bank of England and the United Kingdom's Treasury are working on a digital asset
UK's finance minister said the Digital Pound's goal is to create a "trust, accessible, and easy-to-use" digital asset.
Sam Bankman-Fried's Lawyers Reach Agreement with Federal Prosecutors
Sam Bankman-Fried may still use non-encrypted texting and phone services, save WhatsApp, which he can use under supervision.
FTX CEO Describes 'Pure Hell' Leading Up to Exchange's bankruptcy case
CEO John Ray testified for FTX bankruptcy judge John Dorsey on a request to appoint an independent examiner.
HKSFC to Hire 4 More Staff to Supervise Crypto
The statement states that more operators want to use virtual assets.
South Korea Establishes Guidance for Regulating Digital Assets as Securities
The step prepares for security token legalisation in the nation.
Binance Launches Tax Reporting Tool to Help Users Comply with Local regulations
Binance Tax is offered to Binance.com customers in France and Canada, with more territories to come.
U.K. Central Bank and Treasury Believe Digital Pound is Needed
The Bank of England predicts a UK CBDC by 2030.
3 Website Operators Lured Romance-Seeking Victims Into Their Fraud
Three website operators lured romance seekers with their bogus bitcoin investment scam.
FBI seizes $100,000 in cryptocurrency and NFTs
The FBI confiscated the property in October 2022 for violating "federal law," with the NFTs valued over $100,000.
CFTC Chair Rostin Behnam Continues Calls for Non-Security Tokens Regulations
Chair Rostin Behnam said the CFTC was "ideally positioned" to solve crypto regulatory shortcomings, but legislators needed to provide it power.
Core Scientific to Pay Outstanding Debt with Mining Machines
In a court filing, crypto mining firm Core Scientific stated the equipment were no longer needed for its operations and future plans.
Australia Opens Public Consultation on National Taxonomy of Crypto Assets
A crypto licence and custody document will be released in mid-2023.
Senate Banking Committee to Hold Second Hearing on Crypto Market Crash
The Senate Banking Committee's second hearing of the 118th Congress will discuss digital asset protection.
Australia's Government is Bolstering Its Market Regulator's Digital Asset
The new Australian government has devised a "multi-stage strategy" to combat cryptocurrency frauds, safeguard consumers, and increase enforcement.
CryptoZoo, Logan Paul Sued for $5M Over his allegations
A class action complaint alleges Crypto Zoo, Logan Paul, and other executives "fraudulently" retained consumer monies and failed to fulfil promised advantages.
Silvergate Bank Probed by DOJ for Ties to FTX Exchange
Prosecutors are investigating Silvergate's Alameda accounts.
Indonesia's Ministry of Trade is reportedly aiming to roll out a national crypto exchange
Indonesian Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan has set a June 2023 start date for its crypto exchange.
The Number of Crypto-Related Enforcement Actions in the United States Grows
Blockchain risk monitoring business Solidus Labs predicts a significant rise in US federal and state enforcement actions in 2022.
Reliance Retail accept digital rupee at one store
Reliance Retail has pledged to assist India's CBDC throughout its companies.
Senate Banking Committee to Develop Bipartisan Regulatory Framework for Cryptocurrencies
The Senate Banking Committee, led by Sherrod Brown and Tim Scott, may regulate crypto in the upcoming Congress.
Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida Comes Out in Support
On Feb. 1, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed the House Budget Committee on DAOs, NFTs, and Web3.
Randall Crater, Founder of "My Big Coin" Sentenced
A U.S. Federal Court Judge sentenced Randall Crater to 100 months in prison. Crater defrauded 55 investors with $7.6 million.
BankProv Stops Offering Loans Secured by Crypto Mining Rigs
BankProv said in an SEC filing that it would no longer lend against crypto mining machines.
Hopes Dashed for India's Crypto Community
The Indian crypto community was upset that the budget did not address crypto, hoping for a 30% tax decrease.
U.K. Treasury Proposes Ambitious Crypto Regulations
The UK Treasury labelled algorithmic stablecoins "unbacked crypto assets" rather than banning them.
Tether Denies Receiving Any Loans From Celsius
Tether's chief technical officer Paolo Ardoino denied borrowing from Celsius in response to Celsius' examiner report.
FTX and Affected Parties Request Subpoenas for Information from close relatives
FTX subpoenas Sam Bankman-Fried and colleagues for bankruptcy proceedings.
Former FTX CEO ordered not to contact current or former employees
Sam Bankman-Fried cannot contact FTX or Alameda personnel or utilise Signal as part of his bail terms.
Kazakhstan Seeks to Improve Cryptocurrency Trading Framework
DATF framework supports "AFSA's Strategy for 2022," which includes crypto framework development as one of three regulatory goals.
HKMA Stablecoin Regulations to Demand Backing by Underlying Assets
The main financial regulator will require stablecoin issuers to always back their values with reserve assets.
SEC Loses Appeal in LBRY Vs. SEC
The crypto community hailed the LBRY ruling that LBC tokens sold on the secondary market are not securities.
Yuga Labs Facing More Lawsuits Over NFTs
Rosen, a global legal firm, has encouraged BAYC and APE investors to join a class action lawsuit against Yuga Labs for securities law violations.
US senators write to Silvergate Capital for answers on FTX collapse
Senators Elizabeth Warren, Roger Marshall, and John Kennedy stated Silvergate had not adequately addressed its improper management of FTX customer cash.
The Philippines SEC seeks to bring cryptocurrencies under its scope
The Philippines Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has suggested new cryptocurrency regulations to improve its control.
USDC issuer Circle releases accountant-verified report
Circle's newest reserve report shows $44.5 billion USDC stablecoin assets.
Charity Commission investigating Effective Ventures Foundation over ties to FTX
The Charity Commission for England and Wales began the probe because crypto exchange FTX is a "major sponsor" of Effective Ventures Foundation.
U.S. President Joe Biden's administration released a statement on Jan 27
The White House developed a "road plan" to mitigate bitcoin concerns via congressional initiatives.
U.S. Representative French Hill offers insights into digital asset regulations
French Hill urges the Senate to create innovative crypto rules.
Argo Blockchain IPO: Lawsuit Claims Miner Made Untrue Statements
Argo Blockchain's 2021 IPO investors launched a class-action lawsuit.
SEC Probes Investment Advisers Offering Crypto Custody Without Proper Qualification
After the fall of FTX and the Ripple lawsuit in 2022, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is now looking into Wall Street corporations that may be violating custody regulations.
Arizona State Senator Wendy Rogers Proposes Bills to Make Bitcoin Legal Tender
Arizona state senator Wendy Rogers also supported a tax-exempt crypto bill.
How much money will Sullivan & Cromwell make from the FTX cryptocurrency
A story claims FTX's notorious legal team would profit hundreds of millions from the exchange's bankruptcy lawsuit.
Custodia Bank's Application to Join Federal Reserve Rejected
Custodia, a digital asset bank, was denied membership in the Federal Reserve System.
New York State Introduces Bill Allowing State Agencies to Accept Crypto
The crypto sector has attacked New York's "BitLicense" and crypto mining restrictions.
The White House is continuing to develop its National Digital Assets Research and Development
The White House wants advice on its National Digital Assets Research and Development Agenda. The agenda "shapes a whole-of-government effort" to build digital assets and distributed ledger technologies. The president's digital asset executive order prompted its September announcement.
Circle Spokesperson Denies Blaming SEC for Failed $9 billion deal
Circle denies blaming the SEC for its December $9 billion failed IPO. Circle's representative said any contradictory assertions are "inconsistent" with past declarations.
Elizabeth Warren Wants SEC to Double Down on Crypto Enforcement
Warren wants the SEC to "double down" on crypto enforcement. The U.S. senator said that the previous SEC administration "basically gave the green light" to a cryptocurrency market "full with trash tokens".
U.S. Federal prosecutors allege that Sam Bankman-Fried has used money from FTX exchange to invest in the VC
SBF contributed $400 million in Modulo Capital. Prosecutors believe Modulo investment was made using stolen or illegal funds.
Bitcoin Cash advocate Roger Ver sued for $20.8 million
Genesis sued Roger Ver for $20.8 million in unpaid crypto options. GGC International sued Ver in New York State Supreme Court on Jan. 23. BCH has not reacted to the lawsuit.
BlockFi to Sell $160 Million in Bitcoin Mining Machine
BlockFi aims to offer $160 million in loans secured by 68,000 Bitcoin mining equipment. November saw the crypto lender declare Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Defaulted loans may be undercollateralized.
The UK's Regulatory Policy Committee is Against the FCA
The Regulatory Policy Committee thinks the 2021 action is unjustified now. The Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy funds the committee. The restriction is "red," meaning it's unsuitable.
DCG's subsidiary Genesis Capital slapped with new class
Genesis Capital, a DCG subsidiary, faces a class action lawsuit. Digital asset lending clients filed the complaint. Genesis violated securities laws by providing unregistered securities.
Australian crypto executives urge caution on regulation
Crypto CEOs warn against classifying all digital assets as financial instruments. Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones said he was "not that enticed" to creating new rules for a financial product. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Australian financial authorities support recognising all crypto assets as financial products (SMH). SMH editor-in-chief David Jones argues the FTX crash proves crypto regulation is needed.
New clause in South Africa's advertising code for cryptocurrency
South Africa's Advertising Regulatory Board now covers cryptocurrencies. Ads must "expressly and plainly" warn investors of money loss. They must also provide balanced information on product returns, features, advantages, and dangers.
Japan to Adopt New Stablecoin Regulations
Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) is trying to legalise stablecoin distribution. New 2023 legislation enable stablecoins like Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC).
Bitzlato crypto firm taken down
Europol: 46% of Bitzlato assets were unlawful. U.S. and European authorities confiscated $19.5 million in cryptocurrencies from crypto wallets.
Bybit CEO clarifies company's exposure to Genesis
Bybit CEO confirms $150 million Genesis Global Trading exposure. The crypto community has moved on from FTX's bankruptcy to other loan businesses, some of which are suing parent company Digital Currency Group.
Lawyers Speak on Motions Dealing With Potential conflicts
James Bromley represents FTX's debtors in bankruptcy. Bromley attacked former CEO Sam Bankman-social Fried's media attacks on his law firm, Sullivan & Cromwell, which represented FTX and Ryne Miller.
The UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani Al-Zeyoudi
Thani Al-Zeyoudi said crypto will "major" in UAE global commerce. The UAE's international trade minister updated 2023 commercial ties and policies. New restrictions allow a $2.7 million penalties for noncompliance. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, the artificial intelligence and digital economy minister spoke.
FTX Founder to Forfeit $700 Million
If convicted of fraud, FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried will lose $700 million. 55,273,469 Robinhood shares were confiscated by the U.S.
CFTC Commissioner Questions VCs' Due Diligence
Investor due diligence in the failing crypto-exchange FTX has sparked concerns from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTCP). VCs had to write down their multimillion-dollar investments to practically nothing, raising "serious doubts" about their responsibility.
Nexo Capital to Pay $45 Million in Penalties
Nexo Capital, a crypto lender, will pay $45 million to the SEC and NASAA (NASAA). SEC and NASAA announced the announcement on Jan 19.
Binance linked to illegal cryptocurrency platform Bitzlato
Binance is related to Bitzlato, according to FinCEN. The obscure platform collected $206 million from darknet marketplaces, $224 million through frauds, and $9 million from ransomware perpetrators.
Allegations of fraud against Compass Mining after company cuts ties with Russian
Compass Mining customers are suing for $2 million for fraud. The firm terminated connections with Russian hosting provider Bit River and didn't restore clients' Bitcoin machines. It cut connections with Bit River over non-applicable US sanctions.
U.S. sanctions: Customers suing Compass Mining
Compass Mining customers are suing for $2 million for fraud. The firm terminated connections with Russian hosting provider Bit River and didn't restore clients' Bitcoin machines. It cut connections with Bit River over non-applicable US sanctions.
Missing lawsuit response date, Ooki DAO faces default judgment.
The CFTC is seeking a default judgment against Ooki DAO. DAO missed the lawsuit response deadline. The record of default will show that the DAO did not appear in court. The court issues a default judgment if the defendant fails to defend a case.
Morocco Completed Crypto Regulation
Morocco may draft a crypto law soon. Industry stakeholders will debate the Central Bank's paper. Morocco has the fastest-growing crypto market in Northern Africa, rising from 2.4% to 3.1% in 2021. Soluna built the first blockchain wind farm in 2020.
Ripple CEO Hopeful About US Crypto Regulatory Clarity
In a Twitter discussion, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed cautious optimism regarding US cryptocurrency regulation certainty in 2023. Ripple was sued by the SEC for selling unregistered XRP. Ripple refuted the charges, saying XRP is a money, not a security. The lawsuit has no end date.
Indonesia Plans to Strengthen Security for Crypto Investments
The Financial Service Authority (OJK) of Indonesia will oversee the regulation, supervision and oversight of crypto investments to improve protection for investors, the Southeast Asian country's minister said on Thursday.
FTX's Fall Might Hurt CEO's Crypto Regulation Lobby
The mid-term election in the US is playing a role in influencing and reshaping the regulatory landscape of the crypto industry amid the turmoil brought about by the collapse of the crypto exchange FTX.
Crypto Exchange OKX Opens Regional Office in the Bahamas
OKX Exchange has created a new offshoot in the Bahamas after being registered
South Korean Regulators to Harden Punishments for Crypto Fraud Practices
South Korean legislature is mulling plans to tighten its grip on crypto fraud practices
Vitalik Buterin Shares Opinion On Crypto Regulation
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin on Sunday, shared his opinion on crypto regulation, expressing that he is happy exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are getting delayed.
Costa Rican Lawmaker Proposes to Regulate Crypto Market
Johana Obando, a congresswoman from the Central American country of Costa Rica, has introduced a bill to Congress requiring the government to regulate the crypto market and reduce taxes on cryptocurrencies, making Costa Rica a cryptocurrency-friendly country.
Hong Kong, Singapore Sees Diverging Approaches to Retail Crypto Trading
Hong Kong is planning to shift to a friendlier approach towards cryptocurrencies starting next year, according to a Bloomberg report, while neighbouring Singapore is planning to impose fresh restrictions on consumers.
UK Seeks to Recognize Bitcoin and Crypto as Regulated Financial Instruments
The UK Parliament recently voted to regulate Bitcoin and crypto assets as financial products
Continuous Crackdown on Crypto by US SEC is a Bullish Factor for Investors - Report
The US SEC might be considered harsh for its crypto regulations, some investors use this as a basis for their investments in the space
MAS Seeks to Ban All Forms of Crypto Credits in Singapore
The Monetary Authority of Singapore wants crypto service providers to avoid issuing credits for consumers to trade crypto
CFTC Chair Suggests Ether is Commodity, Let Congress to Regulate Crypto
Crypto regulation is inevitable. That is the message coming from both CFTC and SEC. But this has led to a political conflict between the top U.S. financial regulatory agencies.
UK Could Be The Next Crypto-Friendly Nation As Rishi Sunak Becomes Next PM
Will Rishi Sunak's appointment as the next UK PM spell good fortune for the crypto industry?
African Crypto Exchange Yellow Card Taps VASP License in Botswana
Pan-African exchange Yellow Card has tapped the VASP license to operate in Botswana
UK Government Adds New Crypto Amendment In Finance Regulation Bill
The UK’s Financial Services and Markets bill published an amendment paper on Friday, portraying that the UK government is seeking to regulate crypto and ban unauthorized service providers.
Hong Kong Wants to Legalize Cryptocurrency Trading
Hong Kong wants to take action to become an international virtual assets center by launching several legal initiatives related to emerging technologies in the crypto industry.
Hong Kong to Unveil Virtual Assets-Related Policy Statement on Upcoming Fintech Week
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's government will release the plans for the development of virtual assets in the city during FinTech Week by the end of this month.
Binu Paul Appointed as Head of Digital Assets in the U.K's FCA
Binu Paul has been named the new head of digital assets at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the primary financial regulator in the United Kingdom
Blockchain.com Gets Green Light to Operate in Singapore
Crypto exchange Blockchain.com has gotten the go-ahead to set foot on Singaporean soil after being approved by the nation’s central bank.
European Parliament Ratifies MiCA Framework in Landslide Vote
The long-awaited Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation has just scaled through the European Parliament as MPs voted massively in favour of the bill.l
OECD Presents New Transparency Framework for Crypto-Assets to G20
For the upcoming G20 finance ministers' meetings, leaders are going to discuss the CARF framework that builds on certain enhancements to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).
EU Imposes 8th Wave Sanctions over Russia to Include Blanket Crypto Ban
The European Union (EU) has updated its sanction on Russia, the 8th package, and this time, it unveils zero tolerance for crypto-related transactions.
Crypto Regulation Takes New Leap as European Council Adopts MiCA
The European Union is drawing closer to adopting the comprehensive Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation as the European Council has passed the framework.
Bitcoin Could ‘Double in Price’ Under CFTC Regulation, Says Chairman Behnam
CFTC-led regulation has the potential to bring confidence and stability to the crypto market, according to Chairman Behnam.
Slow to Incorporate Crypto Regulations Could Fuel Arbitrage Risk: French Central Banker
Francois Villeroy de Galhau, the governor of the French Central Bank, has warned of the risks of arbitrage that may be fueled by uneven crypto regulations on the global scale.
Binance Seeks Reentry to Japanese Market
Japan’s easing crypto approach attracts crypto exchange Binance to ask for reentry to this island nation after failing to do so four years ago due to stringent measures.
1 Million Aussies to Enter Crypto Over the Next 12 Months, Says Swyftx Survey
A study suggests that Australians are looking for alternative investment opportunities during a time of rising turbulence in international markets.
Britain to Introduce New Bill to Crack Down on Crypto Crime
The U.K. Parliament passed the first readings of an anti-money laundering bill against crypto, which aims to empower law enforcement agencies to seize, freeze or recover crypto in illegal activities.
House Stablecoin Bill to Seek Two-year Ban on Issuing New Algorithmic Stablecoins
U.S. House of Representatives is drafting a new bill to impose a two-year ban on issuing new algorithmic stablecoins similar to TerraUSD (UST), according to Bloomberg.
Australian Senator Bragg Releases New Draft on Digitial Assets
Australian Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg proposed a new draft of the titled Digital Assets (Market Regulation) Bill 2022, aimed at regulating digital asset exchanges.
UK FCA Warns of FTX Unauthorised Provision of Financial Services to Investors
The U.K.’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issued a warning on its official website (FCA) that cryptocurrency exchange FTX may be providing financial services or products in the country without authorization.
Agency Needs to Prepare Regulating Crypto, Says CFTC Chair
Rostin Behnam, the Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) noted that he has directed members to start preparing to be the major regulator in the crypto industry.
US SEC To Open New Office Dedicated to Crypto-Related Filings
The new crypto offices, which are under the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance, will be tasked with reviewing disclosures for publicly traded firms.
Digital Assets Should be Regulated as Part of Banking Industry: Ex-Regulator
Financial experts are advocating for digital currency innovation and activities to be subsumed into the banking industry, a move that will let regulators permit their overall growth.
Brazilian SEC Seeks Adjustment to Crypto Regulation
The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is pushing for adjustments to the legal framework of the crypto market in the country.
Singapore Considers Enhancing Crypto Consumer Protection via Suitability Tests & Leverage Cuts
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is weighing the option of propelling ways of protecting consumers trading cryptocurrencies through new measures like suitability tests.
CoinSwitch Kuber Raided by Indian Authorities: Report
Indian crypto exchange giant, CoinSwitch Kuber comes off as the next trading platform to be raided by the Indian Enforcement Directorate (ED).
South Korea to Introduce 10%-50% Gift Tax on Crypto Airdrops
Users who receive crypto airdrops in South Korea could be taxed at 10%-50%. The virtual asset gains tax will start taking effect in 2025.
Australia Announces 'Token Swap' Campaign to Accelerate Crypto Regulation
Australian federal government will implement a “token mapping” exercise to inform future regulation of the country’s crypto assets, laying the groundwork for “determining how crypto assets and related services should be regulated.”
ECB Publishes New Guideline on Regulated Digital Asset Licensing
The European Central Bank (ECB) has issued new licensing guidelines for regulating digital assets, although it currently does not have a unified regulatory framework governing crypto-asset activities and services.
Uzbekistan Blocks Binance Operating in the Country, Except UzNEX
The Uzbekistan government has blocked internet protocol (IP) addresses of foreign firms or exchanges offering crypto services in the Central Asian country.
High Taxation in Japan is Driving Crypto Businesses Away, Entrepreneur Says
To prevent entrepreneurs from leaving the nation, Japan should minimize corporate taxes on crypto businesses, according to Sota Watanabe, the CEO of Stake Technologies Pte.
UK Parliamentary Group Seeks Public Comment for Shaping Ecosystem in Crypto Sector
The United Kingdom’s Crypto and Digital Assets All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) is calling for public comments as it commences its inquiry into the emerging blockchain ecosystem in the UK.
Robinhood's Crypto Unit Slammed With $30M Fine
The digital currency arm of a commission-free brokerage firm, Robinhood Crypto has been slammed with a fine of $30 million by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS)
Approach to Crypto Regulation is More Proactive: CFTC Chair
Rostin Behnam, the Chairman of the CFTC, has revealed that the commission is more than ready for regulatory oversight of the digital currency ecosystem as the industry evolves.
Bitstamp Gets Regulatory Approval to Operate in Italy
Bitstamp achieved a major milestone by acquiring approval from Italian regulators to offer crypto services to its users.
FTX's Sam Bankman-Fried Urges 'Federal Oversight of Crypto'
FTX co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Sam Bankman-Fried said some tokens could be classified as securities and those that are not, urging a federal oversight of the crypto industry.
Opinion: Terra – A lesson learnt for trading platforms?
The events related to the Terra and Luna collapse highlight why trading platforms need to provide clarity and education for their users. With tighter regulations looming, demonstrating responsibility and a commitment to consumer protection is vital if trading platforms are to thrive.
UK Treasury Doubles Down on Stablecoin Regulations in New Bill
Zahawi presented the Financial Services and Markets Bill to the members of Parliament on Wednesday with a proposal to regulate stablecoins and "digital settlement assets" as a form of payment assets in the UK.
Binance Exchange Fined €3.3M by Netherlands' DNB
The Central Bank of the Netherlands De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) has fined Binance Exchange €3.3 million for allegedly operating a crypto trading service without receiving the appropriate authorization.
Coinbase to Expand European Operations by Acquiring Italian License
Nasdaq-listed cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase Global Inc has announced it has tapped a new license from the Italian market regulator, the Organismo Agenti e Mediatori (OAM).
Andorra to Ratify Digital Assets Adoption with Crypto Law
Andorra, or 'the Principality of Andorra', is contemplating regulations of digital assets and other blockchain technologies. Its parliament is debating on relative amendments before turning them into a draft.
Paraguay Senate Passes Bill to Regulate Crypto Mining and Trading
Paraguay is advancing its crypto bill. Though it appears taking clues from its counterpart, El Salvador.
SARB to Introduce Crypto Regulation
South Africa has changed their mind in terms of crypto regulation. The regulator intends to introduce a legal framework to govern the use of cryptocurrencies in the country.
UK Parliament Requests Calls for Evidence on Crypto Impacts
The Treasury Committee of the Parliament of the United Kingdom has put out a Call for Evidence as it embarks on a mission to study the future of cryptocurrencies and how they will impact local society.
Bank Indonesia to Evaluate CBDC Influence to Local Economy
Governor of the Bank Indonesia (BI) suggested that crypto can facilitate financial system efficiencies and inclusion. The administration is evaluating the impact of adopting CBDC on the local economy.
US Treasury Invites Public Opinions on Digital Assets Framework
The US Treasury Department has requested US citizens to comment on how Biden's Executive Order on digital assets could be streamlined and modernized.
‘Multiple’ Crypto Lending Firms Are Under Investigation, Says California Regulator
DFPI is investigating several firms offering “crypto-interest accounts” after these platforms abruptly suspended funds withdrawals. These firms have recently put the lives of millions of consumers at risk.
Binance Taps Operating License from the Bank of Spain
Binance cryptocurrency exchange has received the license to operate in Spain through its subsidiary in the country, Moon Tech Spain SL
Filipino Thinktank Infrawatch PH Blows Whistle on Binance
Filipino think-tank, Infrawatch PH has called on the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to investigate Binance exchange for illegally operating in the Philippines.
Ethics Watchdog Bans Crypto Holders from Proposing US Digital Assets Regulation Policies
The legal advisory notice from the US Office of Government Ethics (OGE) has banned federal employees, who invest directly in cryptocurrencies, from working on policies related to such digital assets.
Crypto Miner HIVE Requested for Resubmission of Form 40-F
Hive Blockchain Technologies Ltd said it received a letter from Nasdaq, requesting that the company renew its annual report on Form 40-F due to delays in filing submit plans to meet exchange listing compliance.
BoE's Committee Recommends Taking a Closer Look on Crypto Regulation
In its latest Financial Stability Report, the Financial Planning Committee (FPC), an offshoot of the Bank of England has recommended pushing for an ‘enhanced’ regulatory framework.
Crypto Controls Needed in Lending Sector to Stem Depression, Expert Says
For depression and crashes to be averted in the crypto market, regulation and capital controls are needed to supervise fast-growing trading platforms, according to a quantitative risk modeller.
ECB to Warn Countries in the Eurozone about Crypto Regulation
The European Central Bank is reportedly on track to issue warnings to national authorities within the Eurozone about individual handling of the crypto ecosystem.
EU Agreement on MiCA May Not Favor Stablecoins
After much deliberation and compromises from the European Commission, Assembly, and Council, a final agreement that builds the comprehensive framework for the digital currency ecosystem has finally been made
EU Partially Agrees to Establishes Anti-Money Laundering Authority
The European Union through the Council of the EU has agreed on partial terms to establish an Anti-Money Laundering (AML) body that will be named the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA)
MAS Faults Three Arrows Capital for Sharing False Information
Despite its current woes as a liquidated company, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has come out openly to accuse Three Arrows Capital (TAC), also popularly called 3AC, of providing it with false information about key aspects of its business
EU Plans to Bar Interest Payments on Deposits in Stablecoins
Patrick Hansen, the head of Strategy at DeFi startup, Unstoppable Finance, said the expected MiCA bill could come as early as this month’s ending.
Japanese Lawmakers to Introduce New Bill, Empowering Crypto Seizure
In a bid to strengthen its regulatory landscape, Japanese lawmakers are reportedly looking forward to amending the Act on Punishment of Organized Crimes and Control of Proceeds of Crime (1999)
Britain Eyes Becoming a Crypto Hub, Upgrading the Market by Adopting DLT
In pursuit of becoming a global crypto hub, Britain seeks to revamp the traditional financial market using distributed ledger technology (DLT), according to the finance ministry.
Bitcoin ATM Installations Plunge in May, CoinRadar Data Shows
The ongoing ‘crypto winter’ is now reflected in the number of Bitcoin Automated Teller Machine (ATM) installations across the globe
Stablecoins to be Issued by Licensed Banks and Trust Companies in New Japanese Law
In a move to protect investors, Japan’s parliament has passed a bill classifying stablecoins as digital money that must be connected to the nation’s currency, yen, or another legal tender.
FPSB Calls for Comprehensive Regulation of Cryptocurrencies
The Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB), a professional body tasked with granting licenses and certifications to financial planners, has proposed 11 recommendations that will help regulate the fast-growing cryptocurrency industry.
Russia’s Central Bank Makes U Turn about Crypto Usage in International Payments
As a change of tune, Russia’s central bank is relieving its previous tough stance about cryptocurrencies by allowing their usage in international payments, as reported by Reuters.
UK Finance Ministry Proposes Safety Net Measures against Stalling Stablecoins
The proposals presented by the British finance ministry are aimed to mitigate risks related to stablecoins amid the recent TerraUSD de-pegging fiasco.
Despite Risky Nature, ECB Claims Crypto Demand is Increasing
The European Central Bank (ECB) has released a new report in which it submitted that there is a growing demand for crypto assets despite their overall volatility and risky nature
UK Financial Regulator FCA Takes Conservative Approach on Crypto Regulation
The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is not in a rush to add digital currencies to the list of industries or markets that fall within its jurisdiction.
Nigeria Releases New Rules Classifying Crypto as Securities
In a move that might boost crypto trading in Nigeria, the nation’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rolled out “rules on issuance, offering platforms, and custody of digital assets” for virtual firms.
Binance Taps Former Deputy US Attorney as its First Deputy General Counsel
Binance exchange has announced a new appointment of Joshua Eaton as its Deputy General Counsel, admiring his legal profession and military background would help the exchange deal with compliance challenges.
UK to Carve Out Ways for "the Safe Adoption of Cryptocurrencies"
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, delivered her speech to the Houses of Parliament Tuesday in the UK that new regulations will be introduced to strengthen its financial services sector, encompassing the impact on cryptocurrencies.
Stablecoins Pose Risks to Financial Stability: Yellen
The instability of the UST stablecoin has pushed the United States Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, to advocate for introducing a tighter regulatory framework to govern the entire stablecoin offshoot of the crypto ecosystem.
California Signs Executive Order to Formulate Crypto Regulations
The US state of California announced that state agencies will work with the federal government to formulate digital currency regulations to officially accept and supervise cryptocurrencies.
Dubai Regulator Establishes Virtual HQ in the Sandbox Metaverse
Dubai is committed to growing the domestic digital asset sector, a local crypto regulator announced on Tuesday that it has created a virtual headquarters in The Sandbox metaverse platform.
The Bank of Uganda Blacklists Financial Firms for Facilitating Crypto Trading
Uganda’s Central Bank has stated that it did not approve any licensed institution to sell cryptocurrencies or facilitate the trade-in of cryptocurrencies. Offenders would be backlisted.
E.U and US Can Coordinate Effort "on a Shared International Approach to Regulating Crypto": EU Commissioner
Mairead McGuinness, a Commissioner for financial services, financial stability, and capital markets union at the European Commission has called on the United States and the European Union to coordinate efforts with respect to regulating digital currencies.
Crypto.com Appoints Former Visa Boss as VP of Policy of EMEA
Digital currency trading platform, Crypto.com has tapped the services of Roeland Van der Stappen, a Brussels-based regulatory veteran as its new Vice President of Policy in charge of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.
DBS Declines to Offer Crypto Services to Retail Customers as Regulation Stiffens
Since regulators consider crypto coins to be ill-suited for retail consumers, DBS bank said that it will not offer such products to retail-banking clients any time soon.
Gibraltar Introduces New Legislation to Combat Insider Trading and Market Manipulation
The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) has updated its regulatory guidelines for the digital currency ecosystem to include a 10th clause that addresses insider trading and market manipulation.
Bank of England Solicits Funds to Enhance Crypto Crackdown
The Bank of England, through the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), is looking to raise as much as £321 million ($419 million) from the commercial institutions as it is planning to shore up its regulatory efforts in the digital currency ecosystem.
Iran to Introduce Additional Penalties for Illegal Crypto Mining
The Iranian government is going to pass new regulations to increase the penalties for illegal cryptocurrency mining using subsidized electricity.
Singapore Passes Law to Regulate VASPs Operating Abroad
Singapore-based Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASPs) which do their business offerings or products abroad are now required to secure licensing from the relevant authorities.
UK to Accept Stablecoins as Form of Payment, Plans to Mint NFT by this Summer
The UK announced to accept stablecoins as a valid form of payment and has set plans to make Britain a global hub for cryptoasset technology and investment.
UK Regulator FCA to Consult Crypto Industry Concerning Ecosystem & Regulation
The United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is calling stakeholders in the digital currency ecosystem to a two-day CryptoSprint event that will be taking place on 10 and 11 May respectively.
Crypto-Related Firms Should Treat Crypto Custody Arrangements as Liability: US SEC
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission（SEC） said cryptocurrency-related U.S.-listed companies should link those assets to arsenic liabilities and disclose the associated risks to investors, Reuters reported.
South Korea’s Crypto Market Gears up to Legitimacy, With Banks Eyeing a Share of the Cake
With the incoming South Korean President, Yoon Suk-yeol, pledging the easing of crypto regulations, the market is on a solid path to being significantly legitimized.
Voyager Digital Receives a Cease and Desist Order from New Jersey Regulators
Digital assets platform, Voyager Digital, has been issued a cease and desist order by the New Jersey Bureau of Securities for offering unregistered securities in the form of its Voyager Earn program.
Vietnamese Government Developing Regulatory Framework for Crypto
The Vietnamese government is pushing to develop a legal and regulatory framework as the country seeks to establish its stance with respect to its press for a crypto economy.
Japan to Introduce Legislation Governing Banks and Crypto Exchanges
The Japanese government is pushing for new legislation that will request cryptocurrency trading platforms operating in the country become governed by the same rules that apply to banks.
UK to Unveil Plans for Crypto Regulation, Eyeing Stablecoins
According to CNBC, the U.K. government will announce a cryptocurrency regulatory regime in the next few weeks, with a focus on stablecoins, and the details of the plan are still being actively discussed.
Rio de Janeiro to Accept Crypto Property Tax Payment from 2023
Rio de Janeiro is gearing up to be the first city on Brazilian soil to accept tax payments in cryptocurrencies from 2023.
UK Regulator Issues Fresh Warning to Crypto Firms amid Key Deadline Approaches
FCA issued a release with an even more direct message notifying crypto firms that they must bring their operations into compliance within the law or face potential regulatory action.
Bank of England Outlines Framework for Regulating Crypto Assets
The Bank of England has announced a notice outlining securities law requirements that apply to cryptocurrency trading and how they may be tailored for the crypto’s business model.
India's Proposed Crypto Tax Rules May Become Law
India's proposed crypto tax rules may become law tomorrow through parliament.
BIS Identifies Three Key Factors as Challenges of Wholesale CBDC
The Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) project of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is generating more questions than answers as the multinational banking institution weighs in the technical and governance challenges that embody the attempt to create a multi-platform CBDC product.
Malaysian Communications Minister to Propose Crypto Legalization
Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin, the deputy minister of the Malaysian Ministry of Communications and Multimedia, is rallying the government to legalize cryptocurrencies to benefit the tech and crypto-savvy population.
Three EU Regulators Warn Crypto Investors of Potential Losses
Three European Union regulators have warned investors of the potential loss in the digital currency ecosystem.
Ukrainian President Signs Law to Establish Regulatory Framework for Crypto
Amidst the ongoing war on its shores, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed into law the bill that will legalize digital currencies in the country.
UK Regulator FCA Opens Recruitment for Experts to Lead Crypto Department
The United Kingdom’s top market regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has put out an advert for an expert in digital currencies to come and head its crypto department.
Binance Gets the Green Light to Operate in Bahrain
Binance makes a new milestone after being granted a crypto-asset service provider license approved by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB).
EU Parliament Committee Rejects Proposal to Limit Proof-of-Work Crypto
The proposal could have limited the use of cryptocurrencies (such as Bitcoin and Ethereum) powered by an energy-intensive computing process known as proof-of-work.
Bank of Israel Issues Draft Regulations Regarding AML for Crypto Firms
The Bank of Israel has issued a new draft guideline to stakeholders in the cryptocurrency ecosystem as it relates to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) provisions.
Virginia Senate Votes to Support New Bill by Permitting Banks to Offer Crypto Custody Services
Based on the unanimous vote from the Virginia Senate, the proposed bill amendment introduced on January 22 this year by Delegate Christopher T. Head sought to allow eligible banks to offer cryptocurrency custody services.
Circle Delays Launching DeFi API Product, Cites Needs for more Regulatory Guidances
Circle is calling for clearer regulatory guidance for the launch of its DeFi API product.
Payments Firm FIS Worldpay Taps Shyft Network, Enhance Global Crypto Regulation Compliance
FIS Worldpay wants to enable its merchants to comply with crypto-related regulations defined by FATF rules.
Binance Exchange Makes Strategic Venture Investment in Malaysian MX Global
Malaysian-based fintech and trading platform- MX Global has announced the onboarding of Binance exchange as a strategic investor in the company.
US, EU Regulators Vow to Remove Russian Banks from SWIFT Network
One of the latest sanctions from the western camp seeks to ban specific Russian banks from the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Brazilian Senate Committee on Economic Affairs Approves Crypto Regulation Bill
Crypto regulation on Brazilian soil gained steam after the senate’s economic affairs committee approved a bill highlighting the ground rules and day-to-day usage of digital currency funds.
Kazakhstan Energy Ministry Cracks Down on Illegal PoW Mining
The Committee for Nuclear and Energy Supervision and Control of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan has taken a more aggressive approach to curb PoW mining in the country.
SEC to Give "Careful Consideration" to Concern about Spot BTC ETFs: Gensler
Gary Gensler, Chairman of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has promised to give a “Careful Consideration” about spot Bitcoin Exchange Traded Products (ETPs).
UAE to Strive for Virtual Service Provider Licenses before Q2
In a bid to become a global crypto hub, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is gearing up to issue federal licenses to virtual asset service providers (VASPs) by the end of Q1 2022.
Preemptive Measures Needed to Regulate Crypto Market, FSB Says
Regulators need to take preemptive measures, bringing the crypto market to obey rules and regulations as risks from the sector could grow quickly, the Financial Stability Board said.
Hungarian Central Bank Governor Advocates EU Wide Crypto Ban
The Governor of the Hungarian Central Bank, György Matolcsy, recommended that all cryptocurrency-focused activities including trading and mining should be banned across the European Union.
Canadian Lawmaker Introduces Bill, Seeking to Aid Crypto Industry's Growth
Michelle Rempel Garner, a member of the House of Commons of Canada, has introduced a bill that seeks to provide leeway for crypto and their ecosystem to thrive in the country.
Police Arrests 2 Suspects Involved in 2016 Bitfinex Hack
U.S. authorities have arrested a Manhattan-based couple identified as Lichtenstein and Morgan, suspected to be a part of the masterminds behind the 2016 Bitfinex exchange hack.
Georgia State Becomes next Mining Hub, Bitcoin Miners Enjoy its Green Energy
The exodus of crypto mining operations out of China massively has become a blessing in disguise to the United States, given that it now takes the lion’s share.
Golden Gate University Establishes Blockchain Law for Social Good Center to Aid Regulation
The Golden Gate University School of Law has teamed up with Algorand Foundation to set up Blockchain Law for Social Good Center to eliminate regulatory scepticism.
India's Proposed 30% Tax on Digital Asset Implies Recognition of Cryptos
India's decision to regulate cryptocurrencies by introducing a high crypto tax rate of up to 30% on all transactions involving digital assets is an indication that the government recognizes cryptocurrency transactions as valid.
Crypto Mom Flags New Proposal From SEC as Harmful for the DeFi Ecosystem
Hester Peirce, popularly known in the digital currency ecosystem as “Crypto Mom” has issued a note of warning that a new proposal from the commission can significantly hurt the Decentralized Finance (DeFi) ecosystem.
India Chooses to Regulate Crypto, Will Levy 30% Taxes on Income Earned from All Digital Assets
In a dramatic turn of events, India has decided to regulate cryptocurrencies with a major move introducing crypto taxation on all transactions involving digital assets.
Thailand's Market Watchdogs Suggest Crypto Regulation to Avoid Threatening Financial Stability
Regulators in Thailand, including The trio of the Bank of Thailand (BOT), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Ministry of Finance (MOF), issued a joint statement on cryptocurrencies that threaten the local financial ecosystem.
Russian Finance Ministry Believes Crypto Should be Regulated not Banned
The Ministry of Finance in Russia believes that the ban on crypto-assets should be shelved. Proper regulations would provide both transparency and protection to citizens.
Indonesian Regulator Moves to Ban Financial Services Firms by Dealing with Crypto
Indonesian market watchdog, the Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) has warned all financial service outfits operating in the country to abstain from dealing or facilitating transactions bordering on digital currencies in the country.
Russian Tech and Political Oligarchs Opposes Blanket Crypto Ban
Tech and political oligarchs in Russia are expressing their full displeasure over the proposed blanket ban on crypto.
Puerto Rico to Become a Prefered Destination for Crypto Investors, Establishing Friendly Taxation and Island Lifestyle
Under Act 60 or the Individual Investors Act, non-Puerto Rican residents get exempted from paying capital gains for investments realized, and this is one of the factors attracting crypto investors.
Modi Urges Global Effort to Deal with Crypto, Indian Crypto Sector Remains in Uncertainty
The Indian Prime Minister has called for a collective global effort to tackle the challenges posed by cryptocurrencies as the country's crypto sector remains in uncertainty.
Acting OCC Comptroller Urges Regulators to Collaborate with Crypto Intermediaries
Michael J. Hsu, the Acting Comptroller of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has advocated that regulators should collaborate with major crypto intermediaries in order to get a grasp of how the ecosystem functions.
Hong Kong Resumes Discussion on Stablecoin Regulation, Offering 5 Options to the Public
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has published a discussion paper in which it is soliciting the public’s contributions to its proposed regulatory approach to digital currencies and stablecoins.
Crypto Regulation Remains to Unfold in 2022
As cryptocurrencies enter into a new year after experiencing new highs last year, new changes await, among which regulation is top of the list.
Binance CEO CZ Surpasses Tech Giant, Holding World's Biggest Crypto Fortune with $96B Net Worth
Changpeng Zhao, the CEO of Binance cryptocurrency exchange, enjoys a fortune of $96 billion, who become the richest person, surpassing many tech giants, including Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg.
Paypal Confirms Plans to Launch its Platform Specific Stablecoin
American payments giant Paypal Holdings Inc has confirmed it is working on its own digital currency which may take the form of a stablecoin.
EU's ESMA Wants Public Input on Proposed DLT Regulation
The European Union’s Securities and Markets Authority has called on concerned market stakeholders to comment on its proposed regulation for the use of Distributed Ledger Technology in securities trading and settlement.
Estonia to Strengthen Supervision of Virtual Asset Service Providers
Estonia has recently considered enacting new rules on encryption and proposed draft legislation that will strengthen the supervision of virtual asset service providers.
SEC Boss Appoints Corey Frayer To Advise on Crypto Policy
Corey Frayer is joining the SEC’s executive team as a senior adviser on the agency’s policymaking related to cryptocurrency oversight.
Ontario Securities Commission Criticizes Binance for Incomplete Registration
The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) of Canada stated that Binance has not yet obtained the legal operating qualifications for the province of Ontario.
Turkey's Concern for Crypto Mounts, Races to Implement Long-Awaited Regulation
Following confirmation that the long-awaited crypto regulation is ready by the Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, stakeholders in the country want the regulations to be implemented as soon as possible.
Indian Securities Regulator Urges Mutual Fund Companies To Avoid Investing In Crypto, Until Regulations Set In
SEBI urges mutual fund companies in India to avoid investing in cryptocurrencies as the government is still considering new crypto rules.
Binance Trading Platform Licenses in Bahrain, Canada
The year 2021 is finally going to end on a great note for Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, as it has secured double licenses from the Central Bank of Bahrain (CCB) and Canada.
SEC Commissioner Elad Roisman Sets to Leave the Agency in next January
Elad Roisman, one of the Commissioners with the U.S. SEC has tendered his resignation with President Joe Biden in preparation for his exit from the agency by the end of January 2022.
South African Regulator to Unveil Consumer Protection Regulations in Early 2022
The South African Financial Sector Conduct Authority is on track to unveil an encompassing regulatory framework that is targeted at protecting consumers from scams emanating from the digital currency ecosystem.
Despite Clear Divide Amongst Lawmakers, Crypto CEOs Request Clear Regulations
Top executives representing the biggest companies in the American digital currency ecosystem appeared before Congress to testify on the state of the crypto industry.
Japan’s Financial Regulator Proposes New Legislations, Limiting Stablecoin Issuance to Banks
Japan’s FSA is working on a legislation that is set to be introduced next year. The regulations seek to make it only wire transfer companies and banks can issue stablecoins.
India Sees a Step Backward as Lawmaker to Advocate Crypto Ban
An Indian Lok Sabha lawmaker, Nishikant Dubey, advocates that the nation should ban cryptocurrencies rather than embrace these nascent assets through regulation.
FTX Shares 10-Point Regulatory Proposals to American Congress
Cryptocurrency trading platform FTX Derivatives Exchange has published a 10-point regulatory proposal, aims at helping American regulators to provide better regulatory oversight of the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Indian Government Affirms to Regulate Digital Currencies instead of Banning
Affirming the prior speculations on the concerted efforts of the Indian parliament and government to regulate the developing world of cryptocurrencies.
South Korea Plans to Suspend Crypto Taxation Until 2023
Crypto investors in South Korea might have a sigh of relief because the government intends to delay imposing crypto taxation until 2023.
Paytm CEO Doubles Down on Crypto, Says it Will Go Mainstream in 5 Years
Paytm's founder and Chief Executive Officer Vijay Shekhar Sharma has doubled down on his trust in crypto’s ability to go mainstream in the next 5 years.
India Reportedly Postpones to Test Digital Rubee in Q1 in 2023, Amid Banning Private Cryptos
Reportedly, the Indian government has postponed the trial date of testing digital Rubee until Q1 of 2023, the digital form of central bank digital currency (CBDC), according to local media outlets.
ECB Publishes New Stablecoin-Featured Framework for Overseeing Payments
The European Central Bank (ECB) has released a new framework geared towards overseeing all forms of electronic payments in the region, including those bordering on stablecoins.
S. Korea's Democratic Party Backs Support for Crypto, Metaverse
Song Young-gil, leader of the ruling Democratic Party, stated that the South Korean government should stop the crackdown on the crypto sector and start nurturing it instead.
Russian Auditor of Accounts Chamber Warns of the Risks in Crypto Investment
Alexei Savatyugin, the Auditor of the Accounts Chamber in the Russian Parliament has shared concerns about unregulated digital currencies, and the risks they pose to investors.
Israel Proposes New AML Rules for Crypto Service Providers
Digital currency service providers in Israel are now expected to adhere to the provisions of new Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules enacted by the Israeli Money Laundering and Terror Financing Prohibition Authority (IMPA).
Coinbase and Binance Amongst the 70 Crypto Firms Awaiting Licensing, Said by MAS
American cryptocurrency trading platform, Coinbase and Binance exchange, two of the world’s largest digital currency brokerages are notably amongst the few platforms awaiting license approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
First China, Now Singapore; Local Regulations Pushing Huobi Out of Asian Markets
Digital currency trading platform, Huobi Global is shutting its doors to its Singapore-based users in a bid to comply with local regulations in the country.
Digital Rubble Prototype to be Introduced in Early 2022
In line with the development of its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) dubbed the Digital Rubble, the Central Bank of Russia is set to launch a prototype platform for the new form of money in early 2022.
Huobi Global Moves its Central Operating Base to Gibraltar
Huobi Global, one of the world’s largest digital currency trading platforms has announced the move of its operational headquarters to Gibraltar, a small British enclave in the Southern part of Spain.
Brazilian Lawmaker Advocates for Workers to Receive Payment in Crypto
Brazilian Federal lawmaker, Luizão Goulart has proposed a bill that will see both government and private employees receive their remuneration in digital currencies.
Indian Payment Giant Paytm May Add Crypto Services if Regulations Improves
Indian payment unicorn Paytm has reiterated its willingness to add Bitcoin and crypto-related services if regulations around the nascent asset class become clearer.
US SEC Delays Decision on Valkyrie Bitcoin Spot ETF Proposal Until 2022
The SEC has delayed its decision on the Valkyrie Bitcoin Fund until January 2022.
Singapore Aims at Becoming the World’s Main Business Hub for Crypto
Singapore is striving to establish itself as a global key hub for crypto business activities. The city state's head of the financial regulator said the best way to regulate crypto is "not to clamp down or ban these things".
Australia’s Securities Regulator Approves the Launch of Crypto ETFs
Australia Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has finally opened the door for crypto ETFs to trade on Australian stock exchanges.
New York State Watchdog Orders Two Crypto Firms to Close Operations, Launching Further Investigations
The Office of the New York Attorney General (NYAG) has directed two unnamed crypto lending firms to halt their operations in the state, indicating these firms are involving ineffective registration.
Nearly 100% of Bitcoin Supply Slides Back to Profitability Amid an awaiting Greenlight to ETF Approval
99.02% of all BTC supply is now in profit.
Crypto Can Stir Radical Improvements in Financial Services: BoE Deputy Gov
Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, Sir John Cunliffe has pointed out that cryptos are viable enough to push “radical improvements in financial services.”
US SEC Likely to Delay Bitcoin Futures ETFs Until 2022: CFRA Investment Research Firm
According to CFRA ETF and mutual research firm, the US SEC is likely to delay decisions on whether to approve applications of Bitcoin futures ETFs until 2022.
Crypto Lender Celsius Raises $400M as Investors Shun Regulatory Crackdowns
Kentucky-based digital asset lending platform Celsius Network has announced its latest $400 million fundraisers as led by WestCap and CDPQ.
JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon Calls Bitcoin ‘Worthless’
Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan bank, still remains a critic of Bitcoin and once again calls the cryptocurrency worthless.
US DOJ Launches National Crypto Enforcement Team
The US DOJ has unveiled establishing a National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET), a law enforcement task force fighting crypto crime.
Regulatory Uncertainty Keeps the Securities Company Out of Cryptocurrency: Citadel's CEO
Citadel’s chief has clarified that regulatory uncertainty around cryptocurrency keeps the securities firm away from investing in crypto assets.
Crypto Users Stand at 300M, Representing Nearly 3.7% of the Global Population
Crypto adoption continues to experience an uptick, given that users are currently at the 300 million mark.
The U.S. Government Should Not be Involved in Regulating Crypto: Elon Musk
Elon Musk, speaking at the Code Conference in Beverly Hills, California, said the government should steer clear of regulating the nascent crypto ecosystem.
Swiss Market Watchdog Approves First Regulated Crypto Fund for Investors
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) has approved a launch of the first regulated cryptocurrency investment fund restricted only for qualified investors.
US SEC Names CFTC Commissioner Dan Berkovitz as Incoming General Counsel
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced Dan Berkovitz as the next General Counsel for the agency to resume in November.
Binance Exchange Halts Major Crypto Services in Singapore
Binance has announced that with effect from October 26, users from Singapore will not be able to access the most basic functions of the Binance.com platform
Huobi Global Announces it is Moving Out of China as Clampdown Intensifies
Huobi Global, one of the world’s largest digital currency trading platforms has announced it will gradually unwind its services in mainland China
The Central Bank of China Reiterates All Crypto-related Transactions are Illegal
The Chinese government once again stepped up its suppression of cryptocurrency transactions, and the Chinese central bank stated that all cryptocurrency-related transactions are illegal.
Over 2.2M Crypto Accounts Set to Trade With Restrictions in South Korea as Exchange’s Deadline Looms
As the South Korea crypto registration deadline looms, over 2 million accounts will be subject to restrictions in trading on multiple exchanges.
Reasons behind Monday’s Crypto Market Sell-off Panic: Evergrande Group shaky Bankruptcy Threat Ahead
The fall down of the Chinese real estate giant Evergrande Group swept the entire cryptocurrency market. Evergrande’s financial crisis caused investors to worry about China’s catastrophic debt default, which caused panic selling in the market.
U.S. Blockchain-organisation BBA Publishes Crypto Toolkit Guidelines for Regulatory Consideration
The Boston Blockchain Association (BBA) has published a toolkit that will guide Massachusetts lawmakers in their efforts to create crypto laws.
Binance is Reportedly Under Investigation by the CFTC, Involving Inside Trading
Binance cryptocurrency exchange has come under the regulatory radar again. Reportedly, it is with the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
Kyrgyzstan Shuts Down Over 500 Illegal Crypto Miners
Kyrgyzstan has moved to stem the rise of illegal crypto mining activities in the country by disrupting the activities of a network of unauthorized operators.
Binance Exchange to Work with Regulators by Building a Centralized HQ
Binance exchange CEO Changpeng Zhao said the crypto exchange would look to establish a centralised base of operation to ease the relationship with regulators.
Former BitMEX Executive Agrees to be Extradited Back to the US as Trial Drags on
Former BitMEX executive Gregory Dwyer has finally agreed to be extradited to the US to face charges of banking law violations.
US SEC Chair Gary Gensler: Coinbase and Other Crypto Exchanges Must Register with Agency
After raising concerns over Coinbase’s lending product, US SEC Chairman Gary Gensler has once again reiterated that cryptocurrency exchanges should register with the commission.
Ukraine Parliament Passes Legislation by Legalizing Crypto
The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a bill draft in the second reading Wednesday concerning legalising and regulating cryptocurrency and other virtual assets, such as tokens.
Coinbase CEO Calls Out US SEC For Using Intimidation Tactics
Coinbase CEO has faulted the SEC for resorting to intimidation rather than provide needed regulatory clarity.
Thailand’s SEC Moves to Revoke Huobi's License
Thailand's SEC is about to revoke Huobi's license to operate in the country.
Singapore’s Financial Regulator Puts Binance On Investor Alert List
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has placed Binance exchange on investor alert list, a measure that aims to tell consumers that the exchange is not authorized to offer trading services in the country.
Hong Kong Regulator SFC Warns ICOs as Unauthorized Investment Schemes
The Hong Kong Securities and Financial Commission have issued a warning to the public to beware of unregulated investment schemes, such as digital tokens and initial coin offerings (ICO).
Cuba's Central Bank Moves to Legalize Use of Cryptocurrencies
The Central Bank of Cuba has recently announced that it will legalize and regulate cryptocurrencies. Cuba has been rising interest in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin partly under toughened American embargo rules on the nation.
Bitcoin ATM Operators Joins Forces to Float New Compliance Cooperative
A group of crypto industry Bitcoin ATM operators and firms have floated the Cryptocurrency Compliance Cooperative to bolster regulatory compliance.
US SEC Boss Gary Gensler Calls to Regulate DeFi Projects
The US Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Gary Gensler is pushing to regulate the decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape. He recently said that DeFi is adequately organized and therefore needs regulatory compliance.
South Korea Crypto Sector Face Headwind over Stricter Legal Regulations Challenges ahead
Crypto sectors and retail investors face a tough time as the finical regulators in South Korea are about implementing tougher and stricter administrative measurements to supervise the crypto industry.
Dutch Central Bank Challenges Binance's Legality against its Operation
Binance faces another legal challenge for its operation. Dutch Central Bank says Binance is not legally registered and is operating illegally in the country.
DBS Bank Gets Approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore to Provide Crypto Payment Services
Singapore-based DBS Bank has officially received approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to provide cryptocurrency payment services, starting from next Monday.
Crypto Tax Accounting Software Provider TaxBit Raises $130M From Investors
TaxBit has raised a $130 Million from investors to boost its tax reporting tools
Infrastructure Bill: Is Treasury Sec Against the Proposed Amendments?
US Treasury Sec is opposed to the pro-Bitcoin amendments to the infrastructure bill. Here are some insights behind the story.
U.S. Intends to Impose Tax on Crypto to Support Infrastructure Construction Amid Musk and Dorsey Express Strong Dissatisfaction
As the bipartisan Senate began to vote on President Joe Biden's infrastructure package, the taxation of cryptocurrency transactions in this infrastructure plan cited Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Jack Dorsey, Senator Criticism by Ted Cruz, and others.
New Bitcoin Tax Plan Stifles Blockchain Technology
After a fierce debate exploded over how to tax cryptocurrency, a bid to pass an infrastructure bill worth approximately $1 trillion has stalled in the US senate.
US Senators Made Bipartisan Compromise on Crypto Clause in Infrastructure Bill
The group of Senators pushing for amendments to the Infrastructure Bill has arrived at a compromise as confirmed in a press conference held on Monday.
CFTC Commissioner Brian Quintenz: US SEC Has No Authority Over Cryptocurrencies
The recent heated debate between the US SEC officials and the CFTC over who should police crypto tokens highlights the difficulty in applying existing regulations to the nascent sector.
Gary Gensler Wants Congress to Back the SEC in Regulating Crypto
SEC Chair Gary Gensler wants Congress to give his agency more powers to regulate the crypto industry.
FTX CEO Spends 5 Hours per day to Deal with Regulatory Issues
FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried revealed he spends five hours a day to deal with regulatory and licensing of cryptocurrencies issues, according to a CNBC report Monday.
South Korean Watchdog Uncovers 14 Fake Bank Accounts Used by Crypto Exchanges
The South Korea financial regulator has uncovered 14 fake accounts used by crypto exchanges.
Sen. Warren Nudges Treasury Sec, Regulators to Address Crypto-Related Risks
The request for crypto regulation was re-emphasised through the letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen by Democrat Senator Elizabeth Warren.
Currency.com Joins UK's Crypto Trade Association CryptoUK as an Executive Member
Currency.com has officially announced that it will join CryptoUK, the trade association of the UK's encrypted digital industry, as an executive member. It commits to share best practices and recommend how the sector responds to industry developments.
European Commission Moves to Tighten Rules on Cryptocurrency Transfers
The European Commission has announced that firms transferring Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies must collect details of payers and payees to help regulators prevent the flow of dirty money.
Russia To Introduce Laws Regarding the Confiscation of Crypto Assets
Russia Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov said that the administration is preparing to introduce legislative amendments to the confiscation of illegal digital assets by law enforcement agencies, according to TASS.
Chinese Regulators Shut Down A Domestic Software Firm Over Alleged Involvement in Illegal Crypto Trading
A local Chinese software company suspected of involvement in cryptocurrency trading activities was forced to shut down by two Two financial regulators in China, including the People’s Bank of China (PBoC).
Binance Temporarily Suspends SEPA Euro Bank Deposits, Citing Events Beyond Its Control
Cryptocurrency exchange Binance is facing increasing hurdles in Europe. The financial institution announced to temporarily suspend Euro bank deposits through the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) network.
Bitcoin Prepares to Revisit $32,000 Support Level Before Retracing the Bull Market
Bitcoin may see a decline in search for a support barrier that may kick-start a rally.
UK NatWest Bank Restricts Daily Transfer Amount to Crypto Exchanges, Including Binance
To prevent the occurrence of fraud-related incidents, NatWest bank has tightened restrictions on crypto-related activities followed by the U.K. financial watchdog imposing restrictions on crypto exchanges.
Norway's Financial Regulator Seeks Legal and Investor Protection for Crypto Consumers
The Norwegian Financial regulator intends to strengthen supervision by protecting investors of crypto consumers.
U.S. Senator Warren Urged To Regulate Cryptocurrencies
Massachusetts senator Elizabeth has acknowledged that Bitcoin and Dogecoin have significant problems and therefore urges regulators to break crypto policy deadlock.
New York Senate Gives Moratorium on Bitcoin Mining Operations Per Climate Change Concerns
New York Senators are seeking a new law that clamps down on coal-powered mining while giving exceptions to green energy-powered Bitcoin mining.
Chinese MIIT Issues Guidance on Blockchain Technology
China has issued guidelines for promoting the application of blockchain technology and industrial development.
FCA Warns Crypto Businesses Fail to Meet UK’s Money Laundering Regulations Standard
The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority has disclosed that many crypto firms are withdrawing their applications to register with the agency.
China's Hainan Province Cautions Citizens Against Illegal Crypto Trading
China's Hainan Province has banned illegal crypto offerings, upholding the country's early ban on digital currency-related activities.
Irish MEP Calls for Tightened Rules on Crypto Assets
Irish MEP Chris MacManus has submitted a proposal to the EU per crypto regulation
JPMorgan CEO Warned Investors Against Bitcoin Investment, Calls for Clear Regulations to Crypto Trading
Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase Bank, is still not a crypto supporter. He admits that JPMorgan clients are interested in cryptocurrency. JPMorgan is planning to offer Bitcoin funds to rich clients.
Ugandan FIA Urges Central Government To Regulate Cryptocurrencies
Uganda's FIA urges the central government for comprehensive regulation of the digital currency industry nationwide.
U.S. Treasury Requests Report to IRS for Crypto Transfers Over $10,000
The U.S. Treasury Department today proposed to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service that investors need to report on crypto transactions of more than $10,000.
The Collapse of the Cryptocurrency Market Triggers Discussions among Legislators
Bitcoin plummeted by more than 30% yesterday and the huge volatility caused the panic of selling in the entire cryptocurrency market. This caused the U.S. regulators and legislators may be re-examining crypto-asset legislation.
SEC Chair Gary Gensler Asks Congress to Regulate Crypto Exchanges
Gary Gensler, the chairman of the SEC, has urged US Congress to create a regulatory framework for crypto exchanges in the United States.
Turkey Government Considers Introducing New Regulations After Collapse of Two Crypto Exchanges
Turkey is discussing plans to tighten crypto regulations after two local exchanges collapsed a few days ago.
Ripple Co-Founder Reveals Key Factor that Can Drive Up XRP Adoption
Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen disclosed what could potentially help in pushing XRP’s popularity higher.
JPMorgan CEO Calls for More Regulatory Clarity for Cryptocurrencies
In a letter to his shareholders, JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon cited the need for regulatory clarity for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
OKEx to Shut Down Its Crypto Business Operations in South Korea by April
OKEX intends to shut down its crypto branch in South Korea. According to sources familiar with the talks, the move is attributed to new anti-money laundering regulations in the country.
Token Taxonomy Act that Will Exempt Cryptocurrencies from Securities Laws Reintroduced in US Congress
A crypto bill suggesting that certain cryptocurrencies should be exempted from securities laws has been reintroduced to US Congress for review.
Unclear Crypto Regulations in South Africa Alarm Entrepreneurs
Cryptocurrency regulation is still largely unclear in South Africa, creating a strenuous business environment for crypto entrepreneurs.
Bitcoin Recovers from Plunge Triggered by Confirmation Hearing for SEC Chair Nominee Gary Gensler
Bitcoin (BTC) dipped after Gary Gensler said that it was a challenge for the SEC to keep cryptocurrency markets free of fraud.
What Will Gary Gensler’s Confirmation to The Role of SEC Chair Mean for The Crypto Industry?
SEC chairman nominee Gary Gensler testified before the Senate Banking Committee as part of his confirmation hearing.
What to Expect for Ripple and The SEC’s Pretrial over XRP Cryptocurrency
The outcome of the SEC case against Ripple will have huge repercussions for the crypto industry, and it may pave the way for how other cryptocurrencies are regulated in the United States.
Coinbase’s Upcoming IPO May Lead to Better Crypto Regulation in the United States
Coinbase’s upcoming listing may be what it takes to trigger better cryptocurrency regulation in the United States.
Australian Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud in $90 Million Crypto Scam in the U.S.
An Australian man named Stefan He Qin has pleaded guilty to draining the investor accounts of his New York-based cryptocurrency fund to the tune of $90 million.
XRP Surges Back in to Top 3 on CoinMarketCap Fueled by Coordinated Buying Attack
Ripple's associated token XRP has broken back into CoinMarketCap’s top three cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.
US Department of Justice Works with International Agencies to Crack Down NetWalker Ransomware
The US Department of Justice has led international efforts that have seen half a million dollars in cryptocurrency seized from the NetWalker ransomware group.
Former Fed Chair Janet Yellen Confirmed in Senate as new US Treasury Secretary
After being nominated by President Joe Biden, the United States Senate has now confirmed former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen to serve as Treasury Security.
Treasury Secretary Nominee Janet Yellen Plans to Encourage Legitimate Crypto Use
Biden's pick to lead the United States Treasury Department, Janet Yellen thinks crypto has potential to enhance the financial system and wants to encourage its legitimate use.
President Biden Freezes Mnuchin's Controversial Proposed Regulation on Unhosted Crypto Wallets
FinCEN’s controversial regulation proposal on “unhosted” crypto wallet has been effectively frozen by President Joe Biden as his administration takes office today.
BlackRock Filings Signal the Giant Asset Management Firm Could Start Bitcoin Futures Trading
Blackrock investment management giant has filed documents with the SEC suggesting that the firm is set to dive into the crypto futures trading.
Biden Appointed SEC Chair Gary Gensler is not Going to Save Ripple's XRP Token
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse is celebrating President-elect Joe Bidens Decision to appoint Gary Gensler to SEC chair—but this will not make the lawsuit against XRP go away.
ECB President Pushes for Digital Euro but Calls for Global Bitcoin Regulation
Christine Lagarde, European Central Bank president, said the Bitcoin has been used for money laundering activities and is calling for global regulation of the cryptocurrency.
Grayscale Will Dissolve XRP Trust In Reaction to SEC Lawsuit Against Ripple
Institutional-grade digital asset firm Grayscale will dissolve its XRP Trust as the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) pursues its lawsuit against Ripple
Thai Regulator Warns Against Unlicensed Crypto Firms as Cryptocurrency Trading Ramps Up
As cryptocurrency trading ramps up in the region, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Thailand (SEC) warns investors against unregulated crypto players.
Crypto Exchange CEX.IO Receives Temporary Registration Status with UK FCA
The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has granted crypto exchange CEX.IO a temporary registration status to operate until July 9, 2021.
Can XRP Token Price Ever Recover from SEC Lawsuit Against Ripple?
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse remains defiant in the face of the SEC’s lawsuit but the XRP token continues to lose value with multiple exchange de-listings. Can XRP recover?
Ethereum's Vitalik Buterin Mocks Ripple and XRP, but is ETH 2.0 next on SEC's List?
Ethereum Founder Vitalik Buterin mocks Ripple's XRP as fights the SEC, but with the recent ETH 2.0 upgrade to POS it may not be long before the SEC reclassify ETH as security.
U.S. Financial Regulators Warn Crypto Firms to Tighten Stablecoin AML Risk Controls
U.S. regulators have issued a strict warning on money laundering risks associated with stablecoins and has warned providers to tighten AML protections and controls.
Coinbase Will Likely Delist XRP Token as SEC Files Lawsuit Against Ripple
Coinbase has filed for an IPO and awaits the US SEC's review, the SEC is suing Ripple alleging XRP is security - Will Coinbase delist XRP before the battle even begins?
SEC Sues Ripple for Sale of “$1.3 Billion Unregistered Securities” as Crypto Leaders Debate over XRP
The SEC has filed a lawsuit against Ripple Labs Inc. for offering unregistered “digital asset securities” through which $1.3 billion was raised.
Crypto Twitter Explodes as US SEC Aims to Sue Ripple For Sale of XRP Token as Securities
The US SEC is suing Ripple for selling its XRP token, meanwhile, Crypto Twitter has erupted with support and criticism of the less than decentralized crypto firm.
UK FCA Regulator Announces “Temporary Registration Regime” Extending Operating Deadline for Crypto Firms
The UK’s FCA has just announced a “temporary registration regime” which allows crypto firms who have previously applied to continue operating until July 2021.
Ripple Welcomes Former JPMorgan Chase Chief Regulatory Affairs Officer to its Board of Directors
Ripple has been expanding its network and recently, the blockchain firm has made yet another move to bring its company growth to another level.
Coinbase Lists DeFi Tokens AAVE, BNT, and SNX as Warning of US Crypto Wallet Regulation Looms
2020 has been all about the DeFi boom. Many crypto exchanges have welcomed the DeFi craze with open arms, notably Coinbase, with the addition of new coins.
Congress Members “Express Concern” Over Treasury’s Potential Crypto Wallet Regulations
Four members of Congress have expressed concerns in a letter to the US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, over their rumored self-hosted crypto wallet regulation ban.
The Old World. What is going on with Digital Assets in Europe?
Europe is an enormous market of more than half a billion people. As small amounts up to 8 million euros may be raised without registration of the offering, it is a very attractive market for international projects looking to reach new investors for their security token offering.
The OCC is Focused on "Not Killing" Bitcoin and Crypto says Acting Comptroller Brian Brooks
Brian Brooks has affirmed that the OCC is not planning any ban or stringent regulation on Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
American Investors are in Bitcoin Buying Frenzy as BTC Price Rises, Crypto Flows in From Asia
As the Bitcoin bulls continue to run and push the BTC price to new levels, a massive amount of crypto has been shifting from East Asia to North America—a trend which could represent a huge shift in the crypto market according to Reuters.
US Lawmakers Want STABLE Act to Force Stablecoin Issuers to Secure Bank Charters
US lawmakers have introduced a new bill to Congress seeking to impose federal control over the entire stablecoin industry and would mandate issuers to secure bank charters.
Ukraine's Draft Bill on Digital Currencies Undergoes First Parliamentary Hearing
Ukraine's proposed draft bill for regulating digital assets in the country has passed its first parliamentary hearing.
Facebook to Launch Libra Cryptocurrency in January 2021, But in Limited Format
According to a new developing story, Facebook expects to launch its Libra cryptocurrency in January next year, but in a limited format.
Russian Prime Minister Calls for Civilized Approach to Crypto Regulation
Mikhail Mishustin, the Russian prime minister, has stated that the cryptocurrency market ought to be advanced in a civilized manner.
What Would Happen if Ripple's XRP Token Was Classified as a Security Under US Crypto Regulations?
Amid Ripple XRP token’s recent price surge, whether the fintech firm will stay in the US despite the lack of crypto regulations still remains in question.
What Coinbase CEO’s Crypto Regulation Rumors Mean for Bitcoin if Pushed by US Treasury?
Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, warned that the Trump Administration may be targeting Bitcoin on its way out of office through regulation, but what impact could it have?
Coinbase CEO Warns Exiting President Trump May Drop Crypto Wallet Regulation Bomb
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong shared rumors that the Trump Administration may rush crypto wallet regulations on traders with privacy-invading data-collection requirements.
Director of National Intelligence Warns US SEC of China’s Cryptocurrency Dominance
National Intelligence Director John Ratcliffe has warned the US Securities and Exchange Commission that China’s cryptocurrency dominance could put the US at a disadvantage.
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.
Chainalysis Valued at Over $1 Billion after Raising $100 Million to Expand Regulatory Platform As Crypto Market Surges
Blockchain analytics firm, Chainalysis, announced yesterday that it has secured a $100 million Series C financing bringing the company’s valuation to over $1 billion.
Jack Ma Pays Price: 2.1 Trillion Yuan Ant IPO for 21 Minutes Speech
Analysis of what happened to Ant Group after Jack Ma's speech on financial regulation, and the secrets of the Ant Group business.
China’s President Xi Jinping Killed Ant Group’s $37 Billion IPO After Jack Ma Criticism
President Xi Jinping made the decision to stop the world’s largest-ever IPO after Ant Group’s Jack Ma spoke out against China's financial regulation and banking system.
What Is a Bitcoin ETF?
Bitcoin ETF is a type of security that tracks the overall price of Bitcoin and enables investors to trade and purchase shares of it on traditional exchanges.
UK Treasury Drafting Private Stablecoin Regulations and Researching CBDC with BoE
The United Kingdom’s Treasury Department has announced it is drafting private stablecoin regulation while it continues central bank digital currency (CBDC) research.
What Biden’s Presidency Could Mean for Crypto
With Joe Biden's presidential win, the crypto community has speculated on how this would impact the industry.
Ripple Blockchain Firm to Establish Regional Headquarters in Dubai
Amid the conflict with the SEC over its strict crypto regulatory framework, Ripple has announced that it will set up a regional office in Dubai.
Blockchain Firms To Benefit From SEC's Upward Review of Fundraising Limits For SMEs
The Securities and Exchange Commission has amended its maximum fundraising limit for Small and Medium Enterprises a move that will benefit smaller blockchain firms.
South Korea’s Financial Services Commission to Ban Privacy Coins from Exchanges
South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) will ban privacy-centric digital assets or “dark coins” from exchanges as they present a high money laundering risk.
China's Central Bank and Watchdogs Meet with Jack Ma and Ant Group Execs following Regulation Criticism
Ant Group founder Jack Ma and the firm’s top executives met with PBoC and three financial regulators as China published new draft rules for online micro-lending.
Hong Kong Securities Regulator Aims to Tighten Digital Asset Regulations Later This Year
The CEO of the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) recently stated that security tokens must be regulated by the regulatory authority.
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.
Binance CEO CZ Denies that US Exchange Arm Was Created to Distract Regulators
The leaked "Tai Chi" document obtained by Forbes indicates that Binance.US was set up to circumvent regulation—a claim that CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) vehemently denies.
US SEC Executive Who said Ethereum is Not a Security to Leave the Agency
The US SEC has announced that William Hinman, the current director of the Division of Corporate Finance, would leave the commission by the end of this year.
Andreessen Horowitz Names New York Stock Exchange’s Top Regulator to Head Its Cryptocurrency Unit
Andreessen Horowitz venture capital firm hires the current head of the New York Stock exchange (NYSE)’s regulatory unit.
Alibaba Founder Jack Ma Criticizes Current Financial Regulations
Alibaba founder Jack Ma highlights the importance of fintech innovations over regulations.
Concerns Arise as North Korea’s Financial Services Commission Unsure of Its Cryptocurrency Mandate
The Financial Services Commission of North Korea, which is supposed to be in charge of the supervision of cryptocurrencies, asked which ministry is responsible.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Says Japan or Singapore Could be Firm's New Home
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said that his company has earmarked Singapore and Japan as the most crypto-friendly countries where Ripple Labs could relocate.
Russian Civil Servants Required to Declare Crypto Holdings Beginning in 2021
Russia’s public officials will be obligated to declare all their private cryptocurrency and digital asset holdings, effective from the start of 2021.
United States CFTC Issues Advisory on Digital Currencies for Futures Commission Merchants
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has released an advisory to futures commission merchants clarifying how to hold digital currencies in segregated accounts.
Switzerland Begins Consultation Before Finalizing its Proposed Blockchain Law Amendments
Switzerland announced it has initiated a consultation process ahead of its plans to effect amendments in its extant laws to accommodate blockchain technology
XRP Price Drops During Ripple Swell Conference
The XRP price looks set to continue a downtrend, while Ripple hosts the annual Swell conference which brings together world industry leaders and policymakers.
The Bank of Russia Wants Strict Limits for Non-Professional Russian Crypto Investors
Russia has published a proposal that sets strict limits on the amounts of digital assets acquired by non-professionals investors in a year.
World Economic Forum Releases GSMI Global Blockchain Standards
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released blockchain standards dubbed the Global Standards Mapping Initiative (GSMI).
Ripple CEO Says DOJ Report Offers No Regulatory Clarity, XRP Price Not Influenced
The tightening regulations on cryptocurrency raise many concerns in the community, the DoJ’s new guidance around cryptocurrency enforcement has Ripple’s CEO concerned.
US Department of Justice Releases Cryptocurrency Enforcement Framework
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has released a cryptocurrency enforcement framework, which offers a comprehensive overview of the emerging threats in the crypto space.
List of Blockchain Projects, People and ICOs the SEC Charged
A list of some of the blockchain projects and crypto figures who have been charged by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission over the years.
Ripple Co-Founder Hints Move From US Regulation: “Blockchain and Digital Currencies are not Welcome”
Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen is considering moving Ripple’s base from the United States due to crushing biased regulation.
UK Financial Watchdog FCA Bans Crypto Derivatives Trading For Retail Investors
The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued its final rules banning the sale of crypto derivatives and exchange-traded notes (ETNs).
Oman Central Bank Issues Warning Against Crypto Trading, Specifically Dagcoin
The Central Bank of Oman has warned citizens that cryptocurrencies come with a high risk and specifically highlighted the risks as they pertain to Dagcoin.
US Senator Pat Toomey Eyes Senate Banking Committee Chair and Digital Currency Regulations
United States Senator Pat Toomey said he will take on digital currency regulation and payments reforms should he become the Senate Banking Committee’s next chairman.
New Zealand's Tax Authority Demands Info on Crypto Investors
New Zealand's Internal Revenue Department has asked all companies to pass on customers' personal details as well as the type and value of their crypto assets.
IRS Updates 1040 Income Tax Form, Lays Traps for Crypto Tax Cheats
The IRS plans to update the 1040 income tax form for 2020 to make it more difficult for taxpayers to avoid declaring their crypto assets.
Russian Federal Watchdog Censors Binance for Distributing Crypto-Related Data
Roskomnadzor has blacklisted crypto exchange Binance for what it deems as “containing information prohibited for distribution in Russia.
Russia Updates Regulations on Crypto Transactions, Harsh Fines Reserved for Defaulters
Russia’s Ministry of Finance has issued an amendment to its current cryptocurrency regulations. The amendments also come with stricter sanctions.
Russian Policy Boss Wants to Block Cryptocurrencies, Says They Are Difficult to Regulate
Anatoly Aksakov, head of the State Duma Financial Market Committee, stated that the country should explore other options for crypto regulation.
European Commission Eyes Crypto Regulatory Framework with New Digital Finance Package
The European Commission (EC) has unveiled a digital finance package that highlights legislative proposals on crypto assets and digital resilience.
United States Moves Forward With Crypto Regulation
Two new crypto-related bills were discussed among the House Agriculture Committee this week as the United States moves forward with crypto regulation.
Africa Crypto Adoption Sparks Regulation Concerns
The accelerated growth of blockchain technology in Africa recently has raised concerns over the possible implementation of knee-jerk regulation.
Bithumb CEO Summoned by South Korean Authorities Following Police Raid on Offices
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bithumb Holdings, Lee Jung-hoon has been summoned by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Intelligent Crime Investigation Unit following the unit's incessant raid on the exchange.
Gibraltar Financial Services Commission Comprehensive Updates to its DLT Regulations
The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) has updated its guidance notes for distributed ledger technology (DLT) providers in the country.
Leaked EU Commission Draft on Crypto Assets Law: How Will Cryptocurrency be Regulated?
A leaked European Union legislative draft on digital assets reveals the country's plans for cryptocurrency trading and issuance across the nation.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Criticizes India’s New Bill Seeking to Ban Crypto Trading
Ripple CEO has responded to reports that India intends to introduce a ban on crypto trading.
India Considers Banning Crypto Trading Which Could Impact 1.7 Million Dependent Local Traders
The federal cabinet in India is expected to discuss a new bill that could once again ban cryptocurrency trading in the nation.
Nigerian Securities Commission to Release Official Guidelines on Crypto Regulations
The Nigeria Securities and Exchange Commission has announced a proposed crypto regulation guideline.
IRS Criminal Investigations Puts $625,000 Bounty on Monero Privacy Crack and BTC Lightning Network Tracker
IRS Criminal Investigations have put a $625,000 bounty on the heads of Monero (XMR) privacy and BTC Lightning Network (LN) transactions.
United States Congress Will Vote on American COMPETE Act to ‘Beat China’ in Blockchain Technology
United States Congress will vote today on a bill that specifically aims to ensure the US remains competitive with China in the race for blockchain supremacy.
South Korean Police Raid Bithumb Crypto Exchange For Second Time in BXA Token Fraud Case
Bithumb, the largest crypto exchange in Korea has been raided for a second time in five days by the South Korean police.
Darknet AlphaBay Moderator Paid in Bitcoin Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison
A darknet moderator for marketplace AlphaBay has been apprehended by law officials and sentenced to 11 years in prison.
South Korean Police Raid Bithumb Crypto Exchange Headquarters On Fraud Allegations
South Korean Police have raided the headquarters of Bithumb cryptocurrency exchange as part of an investigation into fraud.
Crypto Leaders Praise United States SEC Inclusive Accredited Investor Definition, Some Think Its Not Enough
Is the SEC's new accredited investor rule inclusive enough? Crypto industry leaders debate.
SEC Makes ICO Token Sales More Inclusive, Not Enough For SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce
The US SEC has modernized their definition of an 'accredited investor' to consider not just an individual’s wealth, but their education.
Police Search of South Korean Coinbit Crypto Exchange Finds 99% Trade Volume Manipulation
Coinbit, the third-largest crypto exchange in South Korea, has found itself in trouble with the authorities for alleged arbitrage manipulation of the transaction volume.
UK FCA Regulator Proposes Mandatory AML Data Reports from Cryptocurrency Firms
The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has proposed obligatory AML reporting requirements for crypto exchanges.
Bitcoin Futures Exchange BitMEX to Block Ontario Crypto Traders
Cryptocurrency derivatives exchange BitMEX announced today that it planned on removing its trading platform services from a Canadian province.
CFTC Demands $572 Million in Penalty and Restitution for Bitcoin Scam, Defendant Nowhere to be Found
US CFTC demanded that the founder of the Bitcoin cryptocurrency scam company Control-Finance pay $572 million in penalty and restitution fees for Bitcoin fraud.
Colombian Ministry of Information Technology Prioritize Public Sector Blockchain and Crypto Payment Solutions
The Colombian Ministry of Information Technology and Communications (MinTIC) believes blockchain and DLT solutions could benefit its public sector.
Crypto Mom Hester Peirce Officially Sworn in as SEC Commissioner
Crypto Mom and blockchain forward SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has been sworn in for a second term at the US SEC.
California Crypto Bill Seeks to Measure the Consumer Impact of Digital Assets
California’s Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee has unanimously passed Assembly Bill 2150 which will help define digital assets as well as to measure its potential impact on the state and consumers
Germany's Federal Ministry of Finance Puts Digital Security Adoption at Core of Blockchain Strategy
Germany’s Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) and the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV) have introduced a bill that highlights the adoption of digital securities as a crucial element of Germany’s blockchain strategy.
Bank of Lithuania Calls For Uniform Regulation for Digital Financial Innovation Across Europe
Bank of Lithuania, Lietuvos Bankas, has proposed uniform regulations throughout the European Union in response to the European Commission’s consultations for the development of the digitalization of financial services in Europe.
Trump’s Proposed Capital Gains Tax Cuts Could Benefit Ethereum 2.0 Stakers
President Donald Trump has proposed a capital gains tax cut which may greatly benefit United States cryptocurrency traders—particularly those planning to stake on Ethereum 2.0.
TikTok Encryption Layer Bypassed Google Android Safeguards to Track Users Data
Following President Trump’s executive order against TikTok, new evidence has revealed that the social media app had been collecting unique identifiers from millions of mobile devices, allowing the China-based app to track user’s online without permission.
Protests Erupt as Alexander Lukashenko Wins Disputed Landslide Election in Crypto Forward Belarus
In Belarus, a highly contested election victory for longstanding President Alexander Lukashenko over Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has erupted in protests. Despite the dispute, the Soviet forged dictator’s stay of power may be good news for crypto.
New York Regulatory Authority Approves 8 Cryptocurrencies for Listing and Trading
The New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) approved 8 cryptocurrencies for trading, and 10 for custody by licensed entities.
Authorities Uncover Illegal Bitcoin Mining Farm In Kyrgyzstan
Federal authorities have uncovered a large illegal Bitcoin mining site in Kyrgyzstan in the territory of the Bishkek Free Economic Zone.
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce Confirmed for Second Term By US Senate, Crypto Mom Will Remain Until 2025
The United States Senate has voted in Commissioner Hester Peirce of the Securities and Exchange Commission for a second term that will see her remain with the regulator until 2025.
Japan’s Financial Watchdog Believes Deregulating Crypto Does Not Necessarily Propel Technical Innovation
After assuming the helm of Japan’s Financial Services Agency mandated with overseeing the monetary sector in July, Ryozo Himino has voiced his reservation of promoting cryptocurrency trading.
Ransomware Group Strikes Again: Canon Takes a Hit
Canon recently suffered a cyber attack where approximately 10 terabytes of files, photos and data were stolen.
Twitter Bitcoin Hack Demonstrates That Crypto Fraud is Easier to Track Than Fiat
Cryptocurrency regulation was the hot topic during an ongoing panel hosted by the Association of Certified Financial Crime Specialists.
India Considers New Law to End Crypto Trading Despite Numerous Overturns by the Supreme Court
The Indian government is planning to bring in a new law to ban cryptocurrency trading, following the prohibition of banks and financial services to provide services related to crypto.
Members of Congress Ask IRS for Relaxed Approach to Crypto Staking Taxes
Innovation friendly members of United States Congress have written to the IRS request a level-headed approach to tax on cryptocurrency staking rewards.
Russia Restricts Anonymous Cash Deposits to Online Wallets
The Russian Government has put strict limits on anonymous deposits made to online wallets. While it is not a complete ban, the initiative by lawmakers is promoted as a step to deter illegal activity such as money laundering and illicit drug transactions and could affect up to 10 million users.
Russian Citizens Are Using P2P Bitcoin Markets to Escape Monolithic Banking System
Crypto usage is growing in Russia, despite attempts by the government to make investment more difficult.
China Clarifies its Stance on Bitcoin: Legal if the Crypto Does Not Act as Alternative to Fiat
China has not always been friendly towards cryptocurrencies, however, the country has not completely banned Bitcoin, according to the Beijing Arbitration Commission.
Iran to Pump Liquidity in Economy by Permitting Power Plants to Mine Bitcoin
Iran has given power plants the green-light to undertake Bitcoin mining on a large scale as this will spur economic growth from the revenue generated. Nevertheless, interested parties must adhere to various regulations like not using subsidized fuel to extract Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Cryptocurrency Adoption Is Growing, But US Needs To Adopt A Solid Blockchain Policy
In order to be ahead of other countries in the ever-growing industry of blockchain, the US needs to come up with an enforceable and consistent blockchain policy.
‘Big Four’ Tech Amazon, Google, Apple & Facebook Grilled During US Antitrust Hearing
In an antitrust hearing with the Judiciary Committee of US Congress, the CEOs of Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google testified, as a continuation of an unfinished legal conversation with lawmakers.
DFA Bill Passed, But Central Bank of Russia Still Thinks Cryptos Are Criminal
Despite the Digital Financial Assets bill being passed by the State Duma, Russia’s Central Bank has nevertheless argued that crypto transactions are not deemed as legitimate investments.
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
PlexCoin Founder Indicted by US Grand Jury for 2017 ICO Securities Fraud
A United States grand jury indictment has been delivered to Plexcoin founder, Dominic Lacroix, as well as Yan Ouellet and Sabrina Paradis-Royer for securities and wire fraud, and conspiracy to launder money, according to the DOJ.
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.
US Federal Regulator Says Banks Can Offer Cryptocurrency Custody Services to Customers
The US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has announced that states and national banks and federal savings associations can provide crypto custody services to customers.
Will Crypto Assets Have a Future in Russia After All? State Duma Passes DFA Bill
The State Duma of Russia passed a law regarding digital financial assets (DFA) in the financial bill’s third reading, which determined the fate of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Canadian Regulator Charges Coinsquare Executives For Crypto Market Manipulation
Coinsquare executives have resigned following a settlement with the Ontario Securities Commission.
China’s Supreme Court Decides to Strengthen the Protection of Cryptocurrency Property Rights
The Chinese Supreme Court has decided to strengthen cryptocurrency property rights. China’s Supreme Court is looking to further protect property rights, including economic property rights through different ownership systems in accordance with the law.
Commissioner Hester Peirce Agrees with Telegram CEO Pavel Durov’s Criticism of SEC
Commissioner Hester Peirce, affectionately knowns as ‘CryptoMom’, believes the SEC’s court victory over Telegram was inappropriately reached and has further stifled innovation for the United States.
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.
MAS Proposes New Regulations to Tighten Crypto Business Activities
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has published a consultation paper proposing a new set of regulations that may stiffen the emergence and activities of crypto industries in the country. Despite the proactive strides of the MAS towards the development of the country’s central bank digital currency (CBDC), the apex bank is set to reinforce its regulations on digital currencies.
UK Government Wants FCA Oversight on Crypto Investment Advertising
The UK Government has proposed that crypto asset promotions should fall under the scope of the Financial Conduct Authority’s existing oversight and does not require a whole new framework just for digital assets.
Grayscale CEO Optimistic that US Regulators Can't Stop Bitcoin
Barry Silbert, CEO of Grayscale Investments thinks that Bitcoin has too much support from policymakers in the United States to ever be shut down completely.
CFTC Committee to Hold Virtual Meeting on Digital Currencies and Blockchain
The CFTC has scheduled a virtual meeting for Thursday, July 16th where its Technical Advisory Committee will discuss matters around on cryptocurrencies and DLT.
The Nascent Primary Market of Security Token Offerings
Now that the ICO market bubble ebbed away security token offerings (STOs) have emerged, allowing investment in regulated securities recorded on a blockchain according to new research from the Oxford Faculty of Law
IRS Crypto Disclosure Letters Violated US Taxpayer Rights in 2019
The IRS shook up the US crypto sector last year, when it issued Letter 6137 to American taxpayer’s which demanded that all citizens declare any unreported crypto gains within 30 days. One year on and an IRS watchdog has slammed the letter as a violation of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
South Korea Proposes 20% Capital Gains Tax on Cryptocurrency Commodities
South Korea’s parliament has put forward a bill that could see crypto profits taxed by up to 20% as members argue that cryptocurrencies are commodities.
SEC Charges App Developer Abra for Unregistered Security-Based Swaps
Abra and Plutus Tech have agreed to a cease-and-desist order and a combined penalty of $150,000 after being charged by the Securities and Exchange Commission for selling unregistered security-based swaps to investors in 2019.
Romanian Programmer Confesses to Orchestrating BitClub Crypto Scam Worth $722 Million
Silviu Catalin Balaci, a 35-year old Romanian citizen living in Germany, has owned up to helping create BitClub Network, a crypto mining Ponzi scheme that siphoned off investors’ funds worth $722 million.
Malaysia’s Securities Commission Legalizes Digital Asset and Crypto Trading
Malaysia’s Securities Commission, which is responsible for overseeing compliance with Islamic laws in finance, has allowed trading of digital assets.
South Korea Declares Andong City as Blockchain Free-Trade Zone to Boost Medical Hemp Production
The South Korean government has designated Andong City as a free trade zone for hemp production, leveraging a blockchain network.
New US CFTC Regulatory Framework to Have a Major Impact on Digital Assets
The new regulation by the CFTC is designed to benefit digital currencies in the era of the growing involvement of cryptocurrencies in the derivative market
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce Wants Regulator Clarity for Crypto Innovation
Hester Peirce, Commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission has continued her push for regulatory clarity on crypto and blockchain projects to encourage innovation in the US capital markets.
Arca Digital Asset Investment Firm Gets Approval from SEC to Tokenize US Treasury Bonds
Los Angeles-based digital asset investment firm Arca has launched trading for its new digitized security investment product that runs on the Ethereum blockchain.
SEC Adopts Expedited Public Listing Review Process—Blockchain ETFs Could Qualify
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission has voted to adopt rule amendments to expedite the review procedure for companies applying for public listing, which could potentially create an expedited and cheaper application process for crypto and blockchain ETFs.
Bitcoin Bull Tim Draper Says Regulators Have Made IPOs Too Expensive
Speaking on Unitize panel, billionaire investor Tim Draper advised blockchain companies to avoid funding through an initial public offering (IPO) as regulators have made the process far too expensive.
SEC Finalizes Lawsuit Against the Founder and CEO of Fraudulent ICO
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has revealed that it has received a final judgment in a US district court action against Eran Eyal, the CEO and founder of Shopin token offering for carrying out an allegedly fraudulent ICO.
US Supreme Court Rules Against SEC’s Ability to Fine Crypto and Blockchain Firms
The US Supreme court has limited the amount in punitive fines that the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) can impose on cryptocurrency and blockchain firms, in a historic ruling yesterday.
Trump Handed Digital Future to China by Going After Bitcoin, Bolton's Book Reveals
President Trump’s opposition to Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies is well documented as is his determination to maintain the US Dollar's global status. According to a passage from ex-national security advisor John Bolton’s book—Trump’s administration has actually handed Bitcoin and Ethereum a huge advantage over other cryptocurrencies.
Philippines Warns the Public on Bitcoin Scammers Posing as Government Officials
Finance ministry of the Philippines Government has alerted the public about false information that fraudulently uses the name of Secretary Carlos Dominguez III to promote a fake crypto trading platform recognized as “Bitcoin Revolution”.
Kazakhstan Intends to Attract Over $738 Million in Crypto Investments in Next Three Years
The government of Kazakhstan is making plans to attract $738 million in investments related to cryptocurrencies and digital mining activities set up with the nation over the next three years.
Floyd Mayweather Promoted 2017 ICO Was a Fraud, Co-Founder Pleads Guilty
The $25 million 2017 Centra Tech ICO court case has finally resulted in a verdict against one of the co-founders who pleaded guilty to fraud yesterday. The other founders are still awaiting trial.
CFTC Chairman Calls For Principle-Based Not Rules-Based Regulation For Crypto
Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Heath Tarbert has stated his preference for the financial governance to be principle based rather than a strictly enforced set of rules. This extends to cryptocurrency and digital assets.
The Algorand Foundation to Integrate Chainalysis KYT for Transaction Monitoring and Compliance
The Algorand Foundation will be leveraging Chainalysis’ Know Your Transaction (KYT) for transaction monitoring and compliance processes after its integration.
Trump Nominates SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce For Second Term
Crypto Mom, Hester Peirce has been nominated for a second term with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as one of its five commissioners, until 2025.
India's Largest Crypto Exchange CoinDCX Raises $2.5 Million in New Growth Capital to Increase User Base
CoinDCX, India’s largest crypto exchange, has announced that it has raised $2.5 million from investors like Polychain Capital and Coinbase Ventures. Polychain Capital led the funding round with support from Coinbase Ventures, the investment arm of the US cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase. CoinDCX had raised a $3 million Series A round earlier in March, which was also led by Polychain Capital and included HDT Group (operator of BitMEX) and Bain Capital Ventures. The company’s other main investor, Coinbase Ventures, has also made investments in other crypto businesses like BlockFi, Messari, Compound, Securitize, and Etherscan.
Reserve Bank of India Says Banks Are Authorized to Provide Accounts to Cryptocurrency Traders
The Reserve Bank of India recently responded to an information query, saying that Indian banks are not prohibited from dealing with crypto businesses.
Louisiana State Congress Unanimously Pass Crypto-Business Licensing Bill
Crypto businesses may be offered a regulated path to legalization in the state of Louisiana.
The proposed bill has been backed by Louisiana state representative Mark Weight. Should the bill be passed, the state would have a regulated crypto framework to operate within and would provide an official definition of traditionally ambiguous cryptocurrency-related terms.
Argentina Orders Stricter Monitoring on Local Crypto Transactions Amid Battling the Flight of Devalued Pesos
Argentina’s Financial Information Unit (FIU) has ordered stricter controls and monitoring into cryptocurrency transactions in the country to eradicate money laundering and other illicit activities. Argentine newspaper El Cronista reported that the FIU, a government agency that is responsible for enforcing anti-money laundering laws and compliance, is looking to tighten its controls on cryptocurrency trading.
Myanmar says Cryptocurrencies are Banned, but Local Users Disagree
Even though the Myanmar government said earlier this month that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are not legal tenders in the country, fanatics continue to interact with the technology.
Pressure Piles Up on BitMEX as Recent Outage Exposes Network Holes
Once branded a “Bitcoin casino," BitMEX has plunged into a series of crises over the last few years. The crypto exchange found itself trending on Twitter in the US recently because of the recent shutdown. BitMEX announced that its trading engine went offline for over an hour because of an incident, which the exchange identified as a “major outage."After some investigation, the exchange later announced that that platform restored its online operations. Such outage of BitMEX’s trading engine is the latest in a series of negative circumstances facing the exchange. Currently, as Bitcoin price hits $10,000, the major outage has prompted warnings that the exchange is becoming increasingly unreliable. The outage left customers unable to access their funds.
New York Times Square Billboard Demands Release of Silk Road Darknet Drug Trafficker
A billboard in Times Square has been hired by the ‘Free Ross’ movement as part of a campaign to release the Ross Ulbricht, founder of the Silk Road drug trafficking marketplace on the darknet.
“We Can’t Let China Beat Us,” Document shows US Regulators Want to Pass a National Blockchain Bill
Lawmakers in the US are coaxing the federal government to consider a national blockchain strategy for regulation and growth, citing China’s Blockchain Service Network as an example.
ISIS Millions Could Be Hidden in Cryptocurrency Ready-to-Fund War Chest
There is fear that missing ISIS’s £246 million may have been hidden in cryptocurrency waiting to be used for war chest.
Telegram Abandons TON and Gram Tokens, Durov Critical of US Regulating Whole World
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has announced that they are calling it quits on the Telegram Open Network (TON) and its Gram tokens after a drawn-out battle with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
HSBC Chief Legal Officer Stuart Levey Gets Appointed as Libra’s New CEO, Expert in Dealing with Regulatory Backlash
The Libra Association appointed its first CEO, Stuart Levey, the Chief Legal Officer at HSBC Holdings. Levey will be overseeing the Libra digital currency and payments system and holds a strong compliance track record and is expected to join Libra in the coming months. However, HSBC has not shown the same upright compliance record. Levey is also expected to “combine technology innovation with robust compliance and regulatory framework.” The Facebook-led project has invited scrutiny from global regulators, with concerns over its threat to national sovereignty with its potential launch. Many of Libra’s original members, including Vodafone, PayPal, and Visa have also chosen to leave the association.
Dutch Central Bank Forces Crypto Firms to Register Within Two Weeks or Face Cease and Desist
The Dutch Central Bank, De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) has announced that crypto companies must register with the authority by May 18, or to stop operating immediately. DNB has looking to enforce the Dutch anti-money laundering (AML) laws, which was passed by the Dutch Parliament in April to comply with the Fourth Anti-Money Laundering Directive (AMLD4) laws. The Dutch AML laws are in compliance with the Financial Action Task Force-recommended AML directives and standards.
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.
Why Hong Kong is Still Not Ready to Become Asia's Leader in Crypto and Blockchain
During a live webinar, as part of the UK FinTech Week, Clara Chiu, the Head of Fintech Unit & Director of Licensing at the SFC explicitly stated that Hong Kong does not have the mandate to create a large regulatory regime for cryptocurrencies or to attract more investors or players in the crypto field. Rather than promoting the crypto sector, Hong Kong is rather focused on protecting investors and promoting new regulations for the same reason. Is focusing on licensing enough for the city?
Facebook’s Libra Could Do to the Payment Sector What Elon Musk's SpaceX Did to the Space Industry, Binance Research Reveals
Libra has released its updated whitepaper, marking several significant changes towards providing individual stablecoins for major fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, and Libra Coin.
Oxford Law Researchers Call for Strict Cryptocurrency Regulation to Avoid Another Financial Crisis
Researchers at Oxford University Law Faculty claim that crypto market regulation is mandatory to prevent systemic risk in times of financial crisis.
Cryptopia Users Win New Zealand Ruling Over Locked Cryptocurrency as High Court Declares them "Property"
Clients of Cryptopia exchange will finally get their funds back after a New Zealand high court classifies the rules that they are entitled to their funds.
Matrixport's Evolved Enterprise-Grade Cactus Custody and Holistic Approach to KYT and AML Compliance
Matrixport is a Singapore-based cryptocurrency startup which was launched by former Bitmain CEO Jihan Wu. Established in July 2019 with the goal to offer over-the-counter trading, lending and custody services for crypto, Matrixport boasts a systematic security model, global distributed infrastructure and business-focused security innovation capability to assure the security and reliability of users' assets.
Has Judgement Finally Come for 2017 ICOs? Class Action Lawsuits Name Binance, BitMEX and Block.One Among Host of Crypto Defendants
Crypto Giants Binance, BitMEX, along with Executives CZ, Arthur Hayes Named Among Defendants in 11 Class Action Suits For Violating Securities Laws.
What are the New Amendments in Japan’s Crypto Laws to be Enforced Next Month?
Japan will be enforcing new cryptocurrency-related regulations in May, as two of the pieces of legislation were passed by the Japanese House of Representatives last year. The Payment Services Act (PSA) and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) were originally scheduled to come into effect in April, however, there has been a delay and the final enforcement date has been officially pushed to May.
Judge Denies Telegram's Appeal to Issue Grams to Non-US Entities, Says it's Too Late to Question SEC Jurisdiction
US Federal Judge P. Kevin Castel has denied Telegram’s request to issue its Gram tokens to overseas investors.
TON Developers Threaten to Go Rogue and Launch Network as Telegram Battles SEC Lawsuit
While the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may have temporarily succeeded in stopping the launch of Telegram’s TON network, can they really stop open-source technology?
Telegram Appeals Federal Court Injunction to Stop Gram Distribution
Telegram has filed an appeal to yesterday’s ruling by a United Stated federal court in favour of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) which has prohibited the issuance of Gram tokens for the time being.
US CFTC Reaches Clarity on Interpretive Guidance on the Physical Delivery of Traded Cryptocurrency
The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced that the Commission has voted unanimously and has clarified the guidance on the question of the physical delivery of digital assets.
Telegram Prohibited from Issuing Gram Tokens as US Court Grants SEC's Injunction
A United States District Court has sided with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) granting an injunction against Telegram to to temporarily prevent the company from issuing its Gram tokens.
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.
Zimbabwe’s Central Bank Finally Takes a Big U-Turn to Regulate Cryptocurrencies
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, the country’s central bank, revealed that it would develop a regulatory framework to check operations of companies dealing with cryptocurrencies. The Chronicle, the local newspaper, reported that the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has already begun drafting a policy framework to guide business activities of cryptocurrency firms.
Exclusive: Blockpass COO, on the Significance of the FATF Travel Rule to VASPs
Personal identity is a fundamental human right according to Article 8 of the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child. Identity is crucial to a functioning society and economy, however, there are 1.1 billion people in the world that do not have proof of identity and 45% of them are among the poorest 20% around the world. For enterprises, customer data protection can be proven costly as 2.8 billion consumer data records were exposed at an estimated cost of more than $654 million in 2018.
South Korea Passes Comprehensive Law Officially Legalizing Cryptocurrency Trading And Holding
A day after India’s Supreme Court lifted the ban on cryptocurrencies, South Korea has followed in their footsteps as the nation’s National Assembly has amended the Act on Reporting and Use of Specific Financial Information. This move fully legalizes cryptocurrencies in South Korea.
UK’s Financial Watchdog Raises the Alarm on BitMEX Being Unauthorized
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK mandated with regulating financial markets and service firms in the nation has blown the whistle on Seychelles-based crypto exchange BitMEX for not being authorized.
India’s Supreme Court Turned the Tables on Crypto Ban in Landmark Ruling
In a momentous ruling, India’s Supreme Court has lifted the ban made by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the nation’s central bank, on banks and other regulated entities dealing with cryptocurrencies. The court noted that preventing regulated entities from offering banking services to crypto trading stakeholders did not hold any water.
German Financial Regulator Officially Classifies Cryptocurrencies as Financial Instruments
The German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) released a new guideline on classifying cryptocurrencies as financial instruments. The BaFin has taken crypto classification one step further as the previous guidelines only covered security tokens.
First Crypto-Native Bank to be Launched in the United States by Former Wall Street Executive
Former Wall Street executive and blockchain laws advocate Caitlin Long has seized the opportunity to establish the first crypto-native bank in the United States. This opportunity came as an advantage as the Wyoming legislature has been progressive, and Long previously helped Wyoming to enact thirteen blockchain-enabling laws.
JP Morgan Research: Blockchain Mainstream Years Away, Libra's Hurdles and Bitcoin Hedging
JP Morgan has been one the earliest advocates and adopters of blockchain technology among the major financial institutions and continues to lead many other enterprises in the space. However, a new report by the American institution indicates that while the infrastructure for a digital economy is being developed globally, mainstream adoption is unlikely for at least a few years.
Mike Bloomberg: US Presidential Candidate Highlights Crypto Adoption In Agenda for Financial Reform
The United State presidential candidate for the upcoming 2020 election Mike Bloomberg is set to tender a proposal seeking to accommodate regulations for cryptocurrencies in a new financial plan that will be duly regulated.
IRS Refuses Watchdog Request to Clarify 2019 Crypto Tax Guidelines
The Internal Revenue Service will not clarify how taxes work with cryptocurrencies and digital asset transactions in the US according to a US congress watchdog’s report released on Wednesday.
Crypto-Candidate Andrew Yang Officially Withdraws, Blockchain Loses Ally
Crypto-Candidate Andrew Yang Officially Withdraws, Blockchain Loses Ally
Hong Kong's Highest-Profile FinTech Consultant: Libra Puts CBDCs to the Top of the Central Banks' Agenda
Blockchain.News interviewed Arslanian at the Asian Financial Forum held in Hong Kong earlier this month, where he was invited to speak on the development of FinTech.
FinCEN Warns Social Media Companies Involved in Crypto to be Vigilant Regarding Illicit Transactions
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has urged social media and messaging companies that are working with on cryptocurrencies to be vigilant about illegal transactions.
US SEC Commissioner Proposes 3 Year Securities Law Exemption for Crypto Projects
United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Commissioner Hester Peirce has doubled down on her recent suggestion to provide decentralized network developers a safe harbor and has now submitted a formal proposal.
UK’s Financial Regulator Seeks to Hire Crypto Specialist to Spearhead Digital Asset Regulations
UK’s financial regulator has posted a job listing for a potential candidate with strong crypto knowledge. The recruitment could be an indication that the agency is set to provide higher degree of regulatory scrutiny of digital assets and possible abuses.
US Rep. Tom Emmer Fears Criticism of Digital Payment Innovation May Repress Progress
In a congressional hearing which was held on January 30, US Representative Tom Emmer has expressed his concern about the excessive criticism of innovations in digital payment, saying that it may repress its progress.
Block.one Settles with SEC to the Tune of $24 Million
Blacksburg startup Block.one has agreed to pay $24 million (HK$ 188 million) in fines to settle the allegations of unlawfully selling its ICO (initial coin offering) to US investors. The blockchain company had raised several billion dollars between 2017 and 2018 by selling its own digital currency.
Singapore Payment Services Act Now in Effect For Crypto Firms
The Monetary Authority of Singapore now requires cryptocurrency providers and exchanges to be licensed under some of the same regulatory elements as traditional financial service providers.
iComply on FATF Travel Rule: Cryptocurrency is Meant to be Trustless, Not Anonymous
iComply Investor Services (iComply) is a regulatory technology (Regtech) company focused on making financial markets more robust, secure, and efficient. We asked their CEO, Matthew Unger for his take on 2019 FATF Travel Rule Guidelines and find out what these recommendations really mean and how should exchanges or VASPs observe them?
Bitwise Pulls Bitcoin ETF To Sort Through SEC Response
Bitwise has officially withdrawn its Bitcoin exchange-traded fund registration filing from the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
India Taking a Step Towards CBDC After the Debut of its Blockchain-Based Payment System Vajra?
India has been taking multiple stances when it comes to blockchain and cryptocurrencies, as cryptocurrency has not been deemed legal, but not it is not considered illegal either. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) recently designed and adopted a blockchain-based system for automating payment clearing and settlement processes.
European Securities and Markets Authority Prioritizes Crypto-Related Regulation
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) announced its key priorities list for 2020-2022. In its published document “Strategic Orientation for 2020-22,” the ESMA reflected its focus on supervisory convergence and its role in building the Capital Markets Union.
US SEC Lists Priorities for Crypto Examination in 2020
The SEC’s Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations (OCIE) has published a list of its 2020 Examination Priorities and cites ongoing risks surrounding digital assets and their transfer agents for US retail investors.
Qatar Issues Crypto Ban, Digital Securities Still Allowed to Roam
Qatar’s regulator has blocked all crypto asset services in the nation. The Qatar Financial Centre Authority (QFC) mentioned in a statement that all “Virtual Asset Services may not be conducted in or from the QFC at this time.”
Opinion: Here are Three Reasons Why China is Afraid of Cryptocurrencies
The Chinese government is quietly seen making attempts to disable the operations of cryptocurrencies in the country. On the other hand, the Chinese state is seen dedicated to promoting the case uses of blockchain. This appears as a contradiction. But let’s understand why China is afraid of cryptocurrencies.
Telegram Resists the SEC Court Order to Reveal Financial Details of 2018 ICO
Telegram’s blockchain launch of TON faces delays as the recent court order by US Lawmakers requires the company to hand over documentation regarding the spending of their raised funds via ICO.
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.
Paraguay Begins to Audit Local Crypto Industry to Comply with FATF Guidelines
Paraguay is looking to take its cryptocurrency industry mainstream, in light of the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) guidance on virtual asset service providers (VASPs) released earlier this year.
UK Court Recognized Cryptocurrency as Property in Freezing Order
In a property ownership tussle, UK high court found itself in the second attempt to recognize cryptocurrency as property. This time round, the court imposed a freezing order to crypto firm directors who failed to prove that they were not owners of the disputed cryptocurrencies.
Basel Committee on Banking Supervision Seeks Advice on Designing Prudential Treatment for Crypto-assets
Basel Committee on Banking Supervision publishes paper going over the design for prudential treatment for crypto assets. The paper goes over areas such as risks of crypto-asset exposures, capital, and liquidity requirements, and general considerations for the prudential treatment.
Paxos—Regulated and Rising above Trustless Tether and Lost Libra
In this second part of our interview with Cascarilla, he explains why the PAX stablecoin is ultimately superior to Tether and gives his thoughts on Facebook’s Libra project and the nature of money.
Sofi BitLicense Receives NYDFS Approval
The New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) has approved the SoFi BitLicense, a subsidiary of Social Finance, thereby agreeing and allowing its residents to get involved in digital currency trading.
South African Reserve Bank to Strictly Regulate Cryptocurrency in 2020
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is planning on introducing new regulations on cryptocurrency, which according to Kuben Naidoo, SARB deputy governor, will be fully implemented and enforced in the first quarter of 2020 and it brings to an end a deliberation that started since 2014.
The Digital Dollar Continues to be Pushed by Former CFTC Chair
The former US Commodity and Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman continues to fight for the U.S Dollar to become a digital global force.
German Banks Authorized for Crypto Custody and Sales in 2020
In 2020, German banks will be legislatively authorized to sell and provide custody of cryptocurrencies as reported by German newspaper Handelsblatt.
US CFTC Rounded Up Over $1.3B in Regulatory Penalties in 2019, 40% More Than the Previous Year
The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), the derivatives regulator in the US has collected over $1.3 billion in regulatory and administrative penalties in the fiscal year of 2019, including funds collected from cryptocurrency businesses, which ended on Sept. 30.
A New Era of Smart Banking: Virtual Bank by Standard Chartered Building Digitally-Born Services
During Hong Kong Fintech Week 2019, Blockchain.News spoke with Deniz Güven, the CEO of the Virtual Bank by Standard Chartered, to understand the current developments and the new technology behind it. The Virtual Bank by Standard Chartered was one of the first granted a virtual banking license on March 27, 2019, from the HKMA along with two other licensees, Livi VB Limited and ZhongAn Virtual Finance Limited.
Shenzhen Warns Against the Resurgence of Illegal Activities Owing to the Promotion of Blockchain Technology
The Office of the Leading Group for Special Remediation of Internet Finance Risks in Shenzhen has warned about the seeming resurfacing of illegal activities as a result of interest in cryptocurrency.
New Crypto Fraud Scheme In South Korea: What Rules Are in Place to Stop False Advertising?
The Ponzi scheme disguised as a crypto platform managed to acquire over $380 million USD for the CEO and other company staff. Corner Up was promising estimated returns of up to 200% to investors for each investment made.
Grayscale Bitcoin Trust Files to Become First Fund to Report to SEC
Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) has positioned itself to become the first cryptocurrency investment fund to achieve a reporting status to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The Future of the Financial Sector Will Rely on Blockchain, Says Singapore’s Fintech Chief
Sopnendu Mohanty, the Chief Fintech Officer of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) spoke at a panel at Blockshow Asia 2019 held at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Center last week. In his panel on the topic of: “All that fintech with a layer of blockchain,” he explains the MAS’ role for blockchain adoption in Singapore and in Asia.
The UK's HMRC Begin Tax Talks for Cryptocurrency
November 2019 has seen newly published guidelines come into place, with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) collecting advice and consulting with third parties to create new principles on different taxes in the United Kingdom.
Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission Sets New Regulations for Crypto Exchanges
The Securities and Futures Commission, Hong Kong’s financial regulatory has set out new regulations for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency exchanges on Oct. 6. Announced by Ashley Alder, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SFC made an announcement in his speech at the Hong Kong FinTech Week 2019. Following his speech, the SFC also published a new regulatory approach to “virtual asset trading platforms,” on its website.
US Congress Plans New Provisions for Cryptocurrency Derivatives Markets
The US Congress aims to pass a new bill deciding on data collection for digital commodities contracts and swaps.
Liechtenstein's Ground-Breaking Blockchain Business Law At a Glance
Liechtenstein's introduction of the world’s first blockchain business law represents an important milestone in the evolution of legal frameworks to support blockchain business.
Canadian Crypto Exchange Shuts Down to Protect Customers
In Vancouver, Canada, another cryptocurrency exchange has closed down. This is not the first Canadian based Exchange to encounter problems, with some users losing everything last year when another exchange lost access to private keys.
Harbor Becomes First Blockchain Company to Hold Both Transfer Agent License and Brokerage License
Harbor, a digital assets firm for security token issuance, has been granted a transfer agent license by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
China Creates New Regulatory Authority for Blockchain Products and Digital Payments
Earlier this month, China's President Xi Jinping made announcements on blockchain prompting banks to begin investing in the industry. In line with this, it is reported the next direction will be a new digital currency for citizens in China to use.
Deloitte Leverages Zero-Knowledge Proof On New Eduscrypt Platform
Deloitte has partnered with cryptography startup Qedit to leverage zero-knowledge proof privacy tech on its new qualification information blockchain platform.
Paxos Launches Blockchain Settlement Platform Following No-Action Relief From SEC
Paxos Trust Company announced that it will go ahead with the launch of its blockchain-enabled Paxos Settlement Service after receiving No-Action relief from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
United States Financial Regulators Sign Onto the Global Financial Innovation Network
In a joint report released by the US Securities and Exchange Commission on 24th October 2019, four US financial watchdogs have joined the Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN).
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.
Arab's Financial Security Publishes a Tentative Draft Resolution for Crypto Regulations
Securities and Commodities Authority in the United Arab Emirates released a draft containing their tentative resolutions on how the crypto market will be regulated.
Heads of SEC, CFTC and FinCEN Jointly Warn Crypto Industry to Follow Regulations
The heads of the three major US financial regulators have issued a joint statement warning the cryptocurrency industry to adhere to banking regulations in the development of digital assets.
What Global Regulators Think of Libra: The Asia Pacific Edition
Libra, the new cryptocurrency by social media giant Facebook, has generated controversy with lawmakers and regulators globally since its announcement in June of this year. Concerns were mostly revolved around the stablecoin potentially disrupting the global financial system. The scrutiny towards Facebook aims at the fear that the new digital currency could possibly take power away from the governments.
HKSFC Guidance on Virtual Asset Fund Managers: The 4 Key Takeaways
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (HKSFC) released the latest guideline “Proforma Terms and Conditions for Licensed Corporations which Manage Portfolios that Invest in Virtual Assets”, providing further guidance on fund dealing and virtual asset fund management.
Switzerland’s New Stablecoin Guidelines: 3 Things You Should Know
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) issued new guidelines for stablecoins added as a supplement to its existing guidelines for initial coin offerings (ICOs) to outline how stablecoins are treated under the Swiss supervisory law.
Exclusive: Liberal Society Comes with Friendly Crypto Regulations
As a veteran lawyer in technology, Nathan Kaiser of Cardano Foundation shares his insights in identifying countries with friendly crypto jurisdictions. He also examined how different jurisdictions affect both on-chain and off-chain governance.
Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrency Trading Now Declared Illegal in Burundi
Burundi has banned Bitcoin and every other form of digital trading from its soil because it can no longer offer protection to persons with problems related to it.
VanEck, SolidX to Sell ‘Limited’ Bitcoin ETF to Institutions
VanEck and Solid X revealed that they have a workaround to bypass regulatory issues and are using an SEC exemption that will allow their product to be offered to institutions such as hedge funds and banks, but not to retail investors.
The ECB Expresses Concerns on Regulating Stablecoins
Due to the lack of regulation of stablecoins, concerns have been conveyed by the European Central Bank (ECB) despite stablecoins with a clear governance framework.
R3 Partners with Dubai Fintech Firm to Revolutionize the Sukuk Market
Enterprise software firm R3 recently entered into a strategic partnership with a Dubai-based fintech firm, Wethaq. The partnership aims to bring together a platform for issuing and trading Sukuk securities by utilizing R3 Corda’s blockchain.
Exclusive: Is Belarus the Heaven for Tokenized Exchanges?
In this interview with George Paliani, CBDO of Currency.com, we explored the fundamentals of the tokenization of assets and its underlying regulatory requirements. George explained that Currency.com isn’t just an ordinary exchange, where it is a platform with cryptocurrencies and traditional financial products such as commodities, indices, stocks, bonds.
SEC Reschedules Decision-Making on Bitcoin ETF Proposals
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States once again delayed on deciding on the three Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) proposals according to the release of documents from the regulatory agency on Monday.
UK Financial Conduct Authority: We Will Not Regulate Bitcoin and Ether
The British Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has confirmed that they will not be regulating cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ether as it falls out of their perimeter.
IRS Sends Warning Letters to Prevent Crypto Owners from Evading Tax
The Internal Revenue Service began sending warning letters out to cryptocurrency owners in the United States, announcing that taxpayers should be paying back taxes they owe or to file amended tax returns in regards to their cryptocurrency holdings.
Unlicensed Bitcoin Exchange Operator Faces Up to 5 Years in Prison in the US
William Green, a 46-year-old American citizen of New Jersey has been indicted on one count of operating an unlicensed money transmitting business through his website, Destination Bitcoin.
India’s Crypto Bill Hearing Postponed by Supreme Court
The Indian supreme court has set a new date to hear the crypto case, which was originally scheduled for July 23. The purpose of the hearing was to address the writ petitions against the central bank’s crypto restriction.
China Declares Bitcoin as Virtual Property with Monetary Value
China has taken a new step with an important legal precedent regarding Bitcoin in a property dispute case in Hangzhou. Read more about how this case affirmed the legal status of Bitcoin as a virtual property with protection under Chinese law.
US Senator Sherrod Brown: Facebook is delusional
“Mark Zuckerberg has said that Facebook is more like a government than a company. That’s delusional.” US Senator Sherrod Brown said in a video tweet.
US SEC and FINRA Issued Latest Custody Guidance on Digital Assets Securities
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) issued a statement addressing regulatory issues regarding the custody of digital asset securities on 8 July.
The World Economic Forum Forms Six Tech Policy Councils Including Blockchain
The World Economic Forum (WEF) launched six different “fourth industrial revolution councils” to help regulators working on the new technology policy guidance. The new technology included artificial intelligence, autonomous mobility, blockchain, drones, internet of things and precision medicine, as revealed on 29 May.
Yonghui, Hema among supermarkets singled out by China's food safety watchdog for breaches
Market regulator highlights 11 cases where supermarkets and online platforms sold food products that did not meet national food safety standards
100 Million: You Can Apply Swiss New FinTech licence Permitting to Accept Public Deposits of Up to 100 Million Next Year
From 2019, interested parties can apply for the new FinTech licence. The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA is responsible for granting this licence. It has published guidelines aimed at simplifying the application process.