UAE: DFSA enhances its Crypto Token framework, fostering innovation

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) today announced some key amendments to its Crypto Token regime.

These changes stem from the proposals outlined in “Consultation Paper 153 – Updates to the Crypto Token” regime published in January 2024 and mark a significant step in refining and advancing the regulatory environment for Crypto Tokens in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

The amendments addressed the ability to offer units of external and foreign funds investing in recognised Crypto Tokens, the ability for domestic qualified investor funds to invest in unrecognised Crypto Tokens, custody of Crypto Tokens, and staking of Crypto Tokens.

The amendments also addressed financial crimes through anti-financial crime compliance guidelines, including applying the “Travel Rule,” transaction monitoring and blockchain analysis, the recognition of Crypto Tokens, and fees for recognising Crypto Tokens.

These changes are based on recent market developments, recommendations from international standard-setters and the DFSA’s supervisory experience.

Over the past two years, the DFSA has engaged with over 100 firms looking to be licensed, gaining valuable insights into the market dynamics and regulatory needs.

Ian Johnston, Chief Executive of the DFSA, said, “Our objective with the Crypto Token regime is to foster innovation in a responsible and transparent manner while ensuring we meet our regulatory objectives. At the DFSA, we have taken a balanced approach in developing this regime and remain committed to evolving it in line with global best practices and standards.”

24 May 2024

UK: IMF warns Tories against further UK tax cuts

Amid a higher debt burden, U.K. should not be considering pre-election tax cuts, forecaster says. The International Monetary Fund advised Chancellor Jeremy Hunt against additional tax cuts in its annual

Read More
12 March 2024

UK: HMRC launches new crackdown on tax avoidance

The government is seeking to clampdown on dodgy tax agents with plans to strengthen the regulatory framework and even create an independent regulator. The objective is to drive out those who offer their

Read More
24 May 2024

EU: ESG fund reclassifications likely delayed until 2025, data shows

EU ESG fund reclassification is expected to stall until 2025 after halving since its Q1 2023 peak, as the June elections delay any overhaul of the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR)

Read More
4 October 2024

JERSEY FINANCE: Importance of Embracing Change in a ‘Multipolar World’ Highlighted at Jersey Finance Private Wealth Conference

Press release from Jersey Finance, Friday 4 October, 2024.  Despite feeling that they are navigating a landscape of perpetual change and fragmentation, families and private investors can thrive –

Read More