As the use of crypto assets continues to grow and evolve, a deeper collective understanding of this area is emerging, and regulators across the globe are formulating regulatory approaches that are proportionate to, and appropriate for, the benefits and risks of crypto assets.
Through the Intergovernmental Fintech Working Group (IFWG), a group of South African financial sector regulators have drafted a policy position paper on crypto assets. The purpose of this position paper is to provide specific recommendations for the development of a regulatory framework for crypto assets, including suggestions on the required regulatory changes to be implemented.
The position paper recommends, among other aspects:
| ● | The implementation of an anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regime |
| ● | A licensing and supervisory regime from a conduct of business perspective |
| ● | A regulatory regime for the monitoring of cross-border financial flows |
This position paper builds on a consultation paper on crypto assets that was first issued by the IFWG on 16 January 2019. The consultation paper originally highlighted the perceived benefits and risks of crypto asset-related activities, as well as policy proposals for a regulatory framework. It also provided an opportunity for all industry participants and stakeholders to submit comments on the proposals contained in the paper.
Members of the public and impacted role players and stakeholders are requested to provide comments on the position paper by 15 May 2020. Comments can be submitted by email to innovation@ifwg.co.za.
