Japan Considers New Legislation For Cryptocurrency Intermediaries

According to Odaily, Japan is contemplating the introduction of new lightweight legislation for cryptocurrency intermediaries that do not operate as exchanges. Recently, the Financial Services Agency (FSA) presented its ideas to the Financial System Council's Payment Services Working Group. In 2017, Japan implemented legislation for Crypto Asset Exchange Service Providers (CAESP), which covers the buying and selling of cryptocurrencies, acting as brokers, managing funds related to these services, or providing custody. However, many so-called introducers, who do not operate cryptocurrency exchanges, do not consider themselves as CAESP. As a result, the FSA is considering a proposal that would require these introducers to register as intermediaries. These intermediaries would be obligated to provide information to users, face advertising restrictions, and potentially be liable for damages if issues arise. The FSA is also evaluating how to handle damage compensation. Current regulations for other financial service intermediaries not part of larger groups require them to provide a margin to cover potential damages. If an intermediary is affiliated with a cryptocurrency exchange, the exchange might be responsible for covering damages.