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Crypto Regulations

All articles tagged with #crypto regulations

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

Coinbase Takes on US SEC's Rejected Crypto Regulations

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has denied a petition by Coinbase Global, the country's largest crypto exchange, seeking new rules for the digital asset sector. In a 3-2 vote, the SEC stated that it would not propose new rules as it disagreed with Coinbase's argument that current regulations are "unworkable" for the crypto sphere. Coinbase plans to challenge the decision in court and has notified an appeals court of its intention to seek judicial review. The dispute highlights the ongoing conflict between the crypto sector and the top U.S. markets regulator, with the SEC asserting that most crypto tokens are securities subject to its jurisdiction. Coinbase argues that existing laws and regulations are unclear and more work needs to be done to create rules that benefit consumers and U.S. innovation.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

SEC Denies Coinbase's Crypto Rulemaking Petition, Prompting Legal Battle

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rejected Coinbase's petition for rulemaking on transactions involving cryptocurrencies that are considered securities. SEC Chair Gary Gensler stated that existing laws and regulations already apply to the crypto market and that the timing for Coinbase's proposed rulemaking is not appropriate, as the SEC is currently seeking comments on crypto-related rules. Coinbase's chief legal officer, Paul Grewal, responded to the decision by stating that they will challenge the SEC's refusal to respond to their petition in court. SEC Commissioners Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda criticized the decision, suggesting that the issues raised in the petition should be addressed through public roundtables and requests for comment.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

SEC Rejects Coinbase's Request for Custom Crypto Regulations

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rejected Coinbase's petition for tailored regulations for cryptocurrencies, stating that the existing securities regime is sufficient. The SEC argues that it already has the authority to regulate crypto assets and has been engaging in rule proposals and enforcement actions. Two of the five commissioners disagreed with the decision. Coinbase had sought a response from the SEC since 2022 and even filed a lawsuit to force a reply. While the SEC opposes tailored rules, the wider Financial Stability Oversight Council has concluded that Congress should intervene with crypto regulations.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

"U.S. Treasury Pushes for Enhanced Authority in Pursuit of Crypto Abroad"

The U.S. Department of the Treasury is seeking expanded powers to combat illicit finance in the crypto sector, including jurisdiction over non-U.S. stablecoin issuers like Tether. The proposed powers would allow the Treasury to enforce sanctions beyond American borders and target transactions unrelated to U.S. citizens. The department is requesting a new secondary sanctions tool against exchanges supporting terrorism and wants to strengthen its authority under the Bank Secrecy Act to target cryptocurrency entities facilitating terrorist funding. The proposal also suggests granting the Treasury extraterritorial jurisdiction over stablecoin transactions involving the U.S. dollar. Critics argue that the proposal represents a significant expansion of powers and could have unintended consequences.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

"US Consumer Watchdog Considers Extending E-Banking Laws to Cryptocurrency"

The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is considering applying the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA) to protect consumers from fraudulent transfers in the crypto space. The agency plans to issue guidance on how existing electronic fund transfer laws can be applied to cryptocurrencies, including private digital currencies. The move comes as crypto-platform hacks have increased by over 150% year-on-year and during the criminal trial of FTX co-founder Sam Bankman-Fried. The CFPB also intends to examine large technology firms' business practices related to personal data and private currency issuance, as well as explore oversight of non-bank payment platforms and the classification of certain crypto activities as systemically important.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

SEC Chief Gensler Faces Crypto Controversies, Lawsuits, and Impartiality Concerns

SEC Chair Gary Gensler maintained his critical stance on the cryptocurrency industry during a congressional hearing, highlighting concerns about the management of customer assets by digital asset companies. Gensler did not provide clarity on the SEC's plans regarding spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) following a recent court ruling. The hearing also touched on non-crypto issues, such as a potential government shutdown and the SEC's focus on climate and other matters. The hearing revealed a partisan divide, with Democrats supporting Gensler and Republicans accusing him of harming consumers and small businesses. Gensler also confirmed that bitcoin is not considered a security. The potential government shutdown may slow down the SEC's operations, affecting the review and approval of filings.

cryptocurrency2 years ago

Crypto's Future: SEC vs. Burger Flipper, Binance US Accounting Failure, and VC Spectra's Rise

Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, and its founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) are engaged in a legal battle against the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which could determine the future of the crypto industry. The SEC has filed charges against Binance, accusing it of misleading investors and operating an unregistered exchange. The outcome of this legal fight could lead to cryptocurrencies being regulated like stocks, a move that goes against the decentralized nature of crypto. The SEC's crackdown on the crypto industry, led by Chair Gary Gensler, aims to bring more investor protection to the sector. Binance, with its wide range of services and its influential CEO CZ, presents a significant challenge for regulators.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

Global Crypto Regulations Strengthened by Financial Stability Board Amidst Turmoil

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has called for tougher global regulations on cryptocurrencies to safeguard client assets and prevent conflicts of interest. The FSB's recommendations aim to address the alleged bad behavior and volatility in the crypto sector, with a focus on separating activities and functions of major crypto conglomerates. The FSB cited recent incidents involving companies like FTX and Celsius as examples of the need for stricter rules. Different global approaches to crypto regulation exist, with the EU crafting tailored laws and the US seeking to apply existing rules. The FSB's recommendations aim to provide a flexible framework that encourages compliance while not stifling innovation.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

"EU Securities Agency and Banking Authority Push for Early Adoption of Stablecoin Standards Under MiCA Law"

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has released a set of detailed proposals outlining how cryptocurrency companies should be authorized under the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) law. The proposals cover areas such as handling user complaints, managing conflicts of interest, and setting reserve requirements for stablecoins. The consultation period will last until September 20, with further consultations planned for October and early 2024. ESMA's move comes in response to recent collapses and security breaches in the crypto sector, aiming to ensure better governance and security. The European Banking Authority (EBA) has also urged stablecoin issuers to prepare for MiCA rules to avoid disruptions in June 2024.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

Former SEC and CFTC Chairs Call for Immediate Crypto Regulations and Consideration of Bitcoin ETF

Former CFTC chairman Timothy Massad has called for the creation of a self-regulatory organization, jointly overseen by the SEC and the CFTC, to establish basic standards for asset protection, fraud prevention, conflicts of interest, and reporting requirements in the cryptocurrency industry. Massad argues that waiting for litigation to conclude is not feasible due to the lengthy process and the potential for regulatory changes in the future. He emphasizes the need for immediate standards while the industry continues to evolve and the classification of cryptocurrencies as securities remains uncertain. This approach would avoid the need to rewrite securities laws and mitigate unintended consequences.

cryptocurrency2 years ago

"XRP Community Speculates Gensler's Resignation Amidst Controversy"

The XRP community is buzzing with false rumors of SEC Chair Gary Gensler's resignation, with prominent XRP accounts circulating the unconfirmed news. However, Gensler's resignation seems highly unlikely, given his focus on robust crypto regulations and market transparency. Historical precedence shows that no SEC chair has resigned within the first two years of their tenure. Some prominent XRP community members are challenging these unverified claims and urging caution in sharing unverified information.

cryptocurrency2 years ago

Japan exempts token issuers from crypto tax on unrealized gains and considers global stablecoin launch.

Token issuers in Japan are now exempt from paying corporate taxes on unrealized cryptocurrency gains, according to a law revision by the National Tax Agency. The tax exemption goes into effect nearly six months after the Japanese government approved a proposal eliminating the requirement for crypto firms to pay taxes on paper gains on tokens they issued and held. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party expects to make it “easier for various companies to do business that involves issuing tokens.”

cryptocurrency2 years ago

Hong Kong lawmaker invites Coinbase to operate in region amidst regulatory challenges.

Hong Kong lawmaker Johnny Ng has invited global virtual asset trading operators, including Coinbase, to register in the region amid a U.S. crackdown on crypto exchanges. Hong Kong's Securities and Futures Commission began accepting applications for crypto trading platform licenses on June 1. Coinbase is looking to expand globally and is waiting for approval to register in Singapore, while also hoping to apply for authorization under the U.K.’s new crypto regime. Despite the challenges in the U.S., Coinbase is not ready to give up on the country and is fighting for regulatory clarity.

cryptocurrency-regulation2 years ago

SEC Denies Coinbase's Request for Crypto-Specific Rules

The SEC has sought a court order to dismiss Coinbase's plea for clarity on crypto regulations, stating that the exchange's request for "extraordinary relief" should be denied. Coinbase had filed a petition in July 2022 urging the SEC to clarify whether existing regulatory frameworks for securities should extend to the cryptocurrency industry. The SEC's response marks the first time it has transparently communicated its stance on setting rules for the crypto industry. The ongoing conflict between Coinbase and the SEC escalated in March when Coinbase received a Wells notice from the SEC, indicating the regulator's intention to take legal action against the exchange.

finance2 years ago

EU Finance Ministers Approve Groundbreaking Crypto Regulations.

EU finance ministers have approved the world's first comprehensive set of rules to regulate cryptoassets, tokenised assets, and stablecoins in the 27-country bloc. The rules require firms to obtain a license to issue, trade, and safeguard cryptoassets. The regulations are expected to be rolled out from 2024. The move puts pressure on countries such as the UK and the US to follow suit. The rules aim to prevent the misuse of the crypto industry for money laundering and financing terrorism, and to combat tax evasion.