Crypto Regulation

The US Senate Banking Committee, led by Senator Tim Scott, is set to establish the first-ever cryptocurrency subcommittee. This comes just before Trump’s inauguration, which is expected to launch pro-crypto regulatory initiatives.

Standard Chartered has launched digital asset custody services in Luxembourg, focusing on Bitcoin and Ether, to cater to institutional investors in Europe.

South Korea is loosening its restriction on institutional trading, as the nation's financial regulator, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) plans to gradually grant institutions access to local crypto exchanges, starting with non-profit organisations.

South Korea’s Financial Services Commission is easing restrictions on institutional crypto trading, starting with non-profit organizations, after the Virtual Asset User Protection Act passed in 2024. The country is also planning to introduce a 20% crypto tax in 2025 and explore crypto ETFs and security tokens to boost market participation.

Kazakhstan shut down 36 illegal crypto exchanges, seizing $4.8 million in assets, as part of a larger effort to combat financial crime. The government is also tightening regulations to prevent crypto-related money laundering and pyramid schemes.

As his SEC term ends, Gary Gensler reiterates his criticism of crypto, stressing the need for strict regulation and citing 100 enforcement actions. Is this frustration or justified caution?

Judge Katherine Failla approved Coinbase’s interlocutory appeal, citing inconsistencies in how courts define securities under the SEC’s jurisdiction. While the decision lets Coinbase challenge the SEC in the Second Circuit, is this a true victory or just a temporary delay?

Backpack has acquired FTX EU for $32.7 million, aiming to offer regulated crypto derivatives in Europe, including perpetual futures. The company is working to reactivate FTX EU's licence and return funds to affected customers while expanding its services in the region.

Cambodia's central bank introduced new rules for digital assets, allowing banks to engage with tokenized assets and stablecoins but banning direct cryptocurrency holdings. Non-compliance could result in heavy fines, aiming to protect the financial system and consumers.

Gemini Trust settled with the CFTC for $5 million over misleading statements made while seeking approval for Bitcoin futures contracts. The settlement avoids a trial and highlights ongoing regulatory challenges facing crypto firms.