Market
Indonesia Roadmap, Thai Sandbox, and More
Asia’s crypto industry is witnessing profound changes as governments across the region implement stricter regulatory measures while fostering innovation.
Key developments in India, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, and Indonesia highlight a collective move toward a more structured approach to digital assets, with each country overcoming its unique challenges and opportunities.
Tax Tensions: Binance Hit with $86 Million Demand in India
India’s Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DCGI) has issued a notice to Binance, demanding $86 million in Goods and Services Tax (GST) payments. The DCGI alleges that Binance, classified as an online information database access or retrieval (OIDAR) service provider, has failed to remit the appropriate taxes.
The company collected fees from Indian customers trading virtual digital assets but did not deposit the taxes. Local media reported that Binance’s earnings from transaction fees charged to Indian customers were substantial, reportedly amounting to at least $476 million. The fees were credited to Nest Services Limited, a Binance Group Company based in Seychelles.
Read more: The State of Crypto Regulation in India
Japan Takes Cautious Stance on Crypto ETFs
Japan continues to take a measured approach to the crypto market, particularly concerning the approval of crypto-linked exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Hideki Ito, commissioner of Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA), emphasized the need for careful consideration before following other markets like the US and Hong Kong in approving these financial products.
Despite Japan’s technological openness, the FSA remains cautious, prioritizing investor protection over rapid market expansion. This approach could delay the launch of crypto ETFs, even as major financial institutions like SBI Holdings prepare for potential market entry.
In late July, SBI Holdings partnered with US investment firm Franklin Templeton to establish a digital asset management company in Japan to launch crypto ETF products as soon as the FSA approves. Local media reports noted that SBI Holdings will hold a 51% majority stake, and Franklin Templeton will own the remaining shares.
Sota Watanabe, CEO of Startale and Founder of Astar Foundation, commented on the potential of Bitcoin ETFs in Japan. He views this move could prompt serious discussions for the much-needed crypto tax reform.
“With the current disparity between securities and cryptocurrency tax rates, ETF approval could highlight the need for a more uniform approach. This reform could unlock significant investment in the crypto space, potentially leading to a major shift in market dynamics,” Watanabe elaborated to BeInCrypto.
Hong Kong’s Spot Crypto ETFs Face Tough Terrain
Hong Kong’s foray into crypto ETFs has seen mixed results, with recent data showing both inflows and outflows. According to SoSo Value’s data, the spot Bitcoin ETF in Hong Kong recorded an inflow of 69.94 BTC on August 9.
This inflow is noteworthy because it is the first time the funds have recorded an inflow after consecutive days of flows and outflows since July 19. The total net assets of these ETFs have decreased significantly from their peak of $342.16 million on July 29 to $271.21 million as of August 9.
Ethereum-based ETFs in Hong Kong have also experienced similar volatility. On August 8, these ETFs recorded an outflow of 399.09 ETH, followed by an inflow of 1,250 ETH on August 7. Similar to its Bitcoin counterparts, the total net assets of these funds have also declined from their peak.
During a panel discussion at the Foresight 2024 conference, Gary Tiu, Executive Director and Head of Regulatory Affairs at OSL, a leading Hong Kong crypto exchange, highlighted systemic issues within the market that hinder the growth of ETFs. Tiu pointed out that the market structure in Hong Kong creates challenges for ETFs to gain traction as financial instruments.
“In Hong Kong, especially when it comes to funds and structured products, typically in between the issuer and the end investors, there is a very rich layer of intermediaries—brokers, banks, private banks, retail banks, et cetera. Those intermediaries make a lot of money from distributing financial products. So, I think the incentive system in Hong Kong is one of the reasons why ETFs do have a bit of a hard time growing as a financial instrument,” Tiu said.
Indonesia’s Roadmap for Crypto Regulation from 2024 to 2028
Indonesia is taking a structured approach to regulating digital assets. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) released a detailed roadmap for 2024-2028. This roadmap outlines the phased development of regulatory frameworks and industry standards aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s position in the Asia crypto industry.
The roadmap’s initial phase focuses on building strong regulatory foundations, while subsequent phases will highlight industry growth and long-term sustainability. Notably, the OJK has also introduced a regulatory sandbox to facilitate innovation within a controlled environment, allowing businesses to test new technologies while ensuring compliance.
In addition to regulatory development, Indonesia is tightening controls on crypto marketing, particularly by influencers. The new rules, which restrict promotional activities to official channels, have sparked debate within the crypto community.
Some crypto influencers have raised their concerns that excessive regulation could stifle innovation. However, the OJK maintains that these measures are necessary to protect investors and ensure market integrity.
Thailand’s Regulatory Sandbox Paves the Way for Digital Asset Innovation
Thailand is also making strides in the Asia crypto sector with the launch of its Digital Asset Regulatory Sandbox. This initiative, led by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Thailand (SEC Thailand), aims to provide a controlled environment for the testing and development digital asset services. By offering a structured framework, the sandbox allows businesses to innovate while adhering to regulatory guidelines, ultimately fostering a more secure and dynamic market.
Participants in the sandbox, including exchanges, brokers, and fund managers, must maintain transparency and solid operational systems. Furthermore, the SEC Thailand has set a clear framework for continuous reporting and risk management, ensuring that the innovation process does not compromise investor protection.
Read more: Crypto Regulation: What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks?
The sandbox is expected to be crucial in expanding the range of digital asset services available to investors in Thailand. Businesses interested in participating can start applying from August 9, with the SEC Thailand evaluating submissions within 60 days. Approved participants will have one year to conduct their tests, possibly extending the period or concluding the experiment early, depending on the outcomes.
Disclaimer
In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Market
Polymarket Faces Ban in France as US Election Betting Ends
According to a report from The Big Whale, the National Gaming Authority (ANJ), France’s gambling regulator, is preparing to block the prediction markets platform Polymarket.
Polymarket, the decentralized platform that allows users to bet on the outcome of political events, sports, and other occurrences using cryptocurrency, has gained popularity in recent months, especially with bets surrounding the US presidential election. More than $3.2 billion was reportedly wagered on the platform during this high-stakes period, with a record-breaking $294 million in volume on November 5 alone.
France Users May No Longer Access Polymarket
According to The Big Whale, a French website that covers the crypto industry, the ANJ’s impending ban comes after a French trader placed a $30 million bet on a Trump victory, reportedly attracting the regulator’s scrutiny.
The trader’s wager positioned him to make approximately $19 million in profits, a sum that has intensified concerns over Polymarket’s compliance with French gambling laws. A source close to the ANJ stated that despite Polymarket’s use of blockchain and cryptocurrency, its activities are akin to gambling, making it subject to restrictions under French law.
“We are aware of this site and we are currently examining its operation as well as its compliance with French gambling legislation,” The Big Whale reported, citing an ANJ spokesperson.
Read more: What is Polymarket? A Guide to The Popular Prediction Market
Legal expert William O’Rorke from ORWL Avocats explained that although Polymarket does not specifically target French users, its activities fall squarely under gambling regulations.
“Polymarket involves betting money on uncertain outcomes, which aligns with the legal definition of gambling,” O’Rorke noted.
Against this backdrop, the ANJ is well within its mandate to block the platform’s access in France. Accordingly, the French regulator may enforce the ban by blocking Polymarket’s domain name in France. It amy also pressure third-party players, like media outlets and online directories, to limit access to Polymarket links.
However, French users may still circumvent this by using virtual private networks (VPNs). This is because Polymarket’s crypto-based infrastructure allows for relatively anonymous participation.
France’s looming ban is not the first regulatory roadblock Polymarket has encountered. In 2022, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) fined Polymarket $1.4 million for failing to register as a designated contract market. The CFTC also challenged Kalshi’s operations due to questions about betting on political events.
Polymarket’s Fate After US Elections
Meanwhile, the US election was a significant catalyst for Polymarket. It drove the platform to new heights in user engagement and bet volume. Polymarket’s election-related markets have been featured on major financial platforms, including Bloomberg, highlighting the platform’s appeal to mainstream finance.
As BeInCrypto reported, Polymarket’s election betting topped $3 billion, reflecting unprecedented participation. The platform, however, faces a crossroads in its path forward. Following the climax of the US election on Wednesday, data from Dune Analytics shows a steep decline in Polymarket’s activity.
Daily active addresses and transaction volumes, which soared in the election lead-up, have notably dwindled as election-related betting winds down. For instance, Polymarket’s open interest, a key indicator of active betting engagement, dropped from $350 million to $268 million after the polls closed. Similarly, monthly new accounts have also dropped by over 41% between October and November.
Against this backdrop, Polymarket may need to diversify its market offerings or potentially embrace a new model to maintain user interest. This is considering election-related activity comprised the majority of the prediction market’s volume.
Rumors are circulating about a potential move toward a decentralized governance token, which could distribute control over Polymarket’s operations to its community. This shift would reduce the liability of the central authority by decentralizing decision-making, though it remains theoretical, with no clear timeline.
Read More: How To Use Polymarket In The United States: Step-by-Step Guide
Polymarket’s fast ascent and regulatory challenges highlight broader industry tensions between innovation and compliance. With election predictions no longer a draw and an impending ban in France, Polymarket’s future remains uncertain.
Its long-term viability may depend on how well it adapts to evolving regulatory landscapes and whether it can maintain popularity beyond election season peaks.
Disclaimer
In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Market
XRP Price Ready to Rally? Signs Point to a Bullish Move
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Market
Solana (SOL) Rallies Strongly, Setting Sights on $200
Solana started a fresh increase above the $172 support zone. SOL price is rising and might soon aim for a move toward the $200 level.
- SOL price started a fresh increase after it settled above the $165 level against the US Dollar.
- The price is now trading above $172 and the 100-hourly simple moving average.
- There was a break above a key bearish trend line with resistance at $162 on the hourly chart of the SOL/USD pair (data source from Kraken).
- The pair could continue to rise if it clears the $192 resistance zone.
Solana Price Starts Fresh Rally
Solana price formed a support base and started a fresh increase above the $162 level like Bitcoin and Ethereum. There was a strong move above the $165 and $172 resistance levels.
There was a break above a key bearish trend line with resistance at $162 on the hourly chart of the SOL/USD pair. The price even cleared the $185 level. A high is formed at $192 and the price is now consolidating gains. It is trading above the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the $155 swing low to the $192 high.
Solana is now trading above $172 and the 100-hourly simple moving average. On the upside, the price is facing resistance near the $192 level. The next major resistance is near the $195 level.
The main resistance could be $200. A successful close above the $200 resistance level could set the pace for another steady increase. The next key resistance is $212. Any more gains might send the price toward the $220 level.
Another Dip in SOL?
If SOL fails to rise above the $192 resistance, it could start a downside correction. Initial support on the downside is near the $188 level. The first major support is near the $180 level.
A break below the $180 level might send the price toward the $172 zone or the 50% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the $155 swing low to the $192 high. If there is a close below the $172 support, the price could decline toward the $165 support in the near term.
Technical Indicators
Hourly MACD – The MACD for SOL/USD is gaining pace in the bullish zone.
Hourly Hours RSI (Relative Strength Index) – The RSI for SOL/USD is above the 50 level.
Major Support Levels – $188 and $185.
Major Resistance Levels – $192 and $200.
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