Connect with us

Regulation

Thailand SEC Reveals Sandbox To Boost Bitcoin, Crypto Innovation

Published

6 months ago

on


The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Thailand officially introduced its Digital Asset Regulatory Sandbox on Friday, August 9. This move is aimed at accelerating innovation in the country’s Bitcoin (BTC) and overall digital asset sector. Hence, the sandbox is designed to provide a controlled environment where firms can experiment with new digital asset services under a flexible regulatory framework.

A Look At Thailand SEC’s Crypto Sandbox Intiative

The initiative, which was initially approved by the Thailand SEC Board in March 2024, underwent a thorough public consultation in May. The feedback received from various stakeholders was overwhelmingly positive. Moreover, many of them agreed on the necessity of this regulatory framework and supporting the proposed changes to existing crypto regulations.

Thus, the sandbox will allow participants to test services related to cryptocurrency in real-world conditions while ensuring that these innovations are in line with Thailand’s regulatory standards. This approach is expected to encourage the growth of Thailand’s crypto industry. Moreover, it will provide a much-needed boost to the country’s capital market.

The Thailand SEC has outlined specific criteria for participation in the sandbox. Six types of digital asset services have been identified as eligible:

  • Crypto exchanges
  • Crypto asset brokers
  • Virtual asset dealers
  • Crypto Fund Managers
  • Digital asset advisors
  • Virtual asset custodial wallet providers.

To qualify for participation, companies must demonstrate sufficient financial resources, robust management structures, and secure operational systems. Thereafter, Thailand SEC will assess these qualifications to ensure that only well-prepared entities are allowed to operate within the sandbox.

Additionally, participants are required to define the scope of their services clearly. This measure is intended to mitigate potential risks and minimize the impact of any unforeseen issues during the testing period. The sandbox is set for an initial duration of one year, with the option for participants to apply for an extension if necessary.

Also Read: VanEck, Coinbase Execs Blame SEC For Surge In Bitcoin ETF-Driven Borrowing

Implications For The Thai Digital Asset Market

The launch of the sandbox comes at a time when Thailand’s digital asset market is experiencing significant growth. With the Thailand SEC’s support, the sandbox is expected to attract both domestic and international players, driving innovation and competition within the industry.

There is also speculation that Binance TH, which recently began operations in the country, may participate in the sandbox. If so, this would further enhance the platform’s ability to deliver innovative services tailored to the Thai market.

Moreover, if Binance TH participates, other major entities could also join in. This would enhance overall inputs to boost innovation in the crypto and blockchain domain. Thailand’s move is seen as part of a broader trend in Asia. In the region, Hong Kong has also introduced similar initiatives to regulate and promote stablecoin innovation.

Also Read: BitGo Clinches Regulatory Nod in Singapore, Taps Asian Expansion

✓ Share:

Kritika Mehta

Kritika boasts over 2 years of experience in the financial news sector. Currently working as a crypto journalist at Coingape, she has consistently shown a knack for blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. Kritika combines insightful analysis with a deep understanding of market trends. With a keen interest in technical analysis, she brings a nuanced perspective to her reporting, exploring the intersection of finance, technology, and emerging trends in the crypto space.

Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.





Source link

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Regulation

Thailand Boosts Crypto Ambitions, Welcomes Bitcoin ETFs on Local Exchanges

Published

1 hour ago

on

January 22, 2025

By


Thailand is witnessing a significant breakthrough in its ambitious vision to establish a digital asset hub. A recent report on Wednesday revealed Thailand’s plans to adopt Bitcoin ETFs, permitting local exchanges to list the exchange-traded funds.

Thailand Prepares for Bitcoin ETF Debut

The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to approve its first Bitcoin ETF, aligning with the country’s crypto hub vision, Bloomberg reported on January 15.

SEC Secretary-General Pornanong Budsaratragoon posited that the move would allow individual and institutional investors to invest in the Bitcoin vehicles directly.

Promoting the use of cryptocurrencies, Thailand is paving the way for the worldwide adoption of digital assets. During an interview on Tuesday, Pornanong stated,

Like it or not, we have to move along with more adoption of cryptocurrencies worldwide. We have to adapt and ensure that our investors have more options in crypto assets with proper protection.

Although, One Asset Management in Thailand has introduced a fund-of-fund tracking international Bitcoin ETFs, a direct investment tool remains pending approval. The ONE Bitcoin ETF Fund of Funds Unhedged and not for Retail Investors (ONE-BTCETFOF-UI) and was approved by the Thai SEC last year.

Thailand’s Thaksin To Legalize Crypto

The latest development came on the heels of Pheu Thai Party leader Thaksin Shinawatra’s efforts to legalize crypto. Citing the incoming US President Donald Trump’s crypto-friendly approach, Thaksin suggested Thailand embrace a more progressive stance on virtual assets. He also proposed the increased issuance and use of stablecoins.

Digital-asset trading activity in Thailand is picking up amid a wider rally that pushed Bitcoin to a record high of $108,315. Crypto hedge funds had a great last year but failed to give more returns than Bitcoin (BTC), as per Bloomberg

Thailand’s Broader Crypto Vision and Regulations

Thailand has long been striving to solidify its position at the forefront of the global crypto market. In a recent development, the country announced its crypto payment pilot project, with the trial set in Phuket.

While the initiative is expected to be executed within Thailand’s existing legal framework, it bolsters the nation’s crypto vision. The country is broadly looking to boost crypto adoption and Bitcoin ETFs will be welcome move for the local crypto industry.

✓ Share:

Nynu V Jamal

Nynu V Jamal is a passionate crypto journalist with three years of experience in blockchain, web3, and fintech spheres. She has established herself as a knowledgeable and engaging voice in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space. Her experience as an Assistant Professor in English Language and Literature has further added to her quest for crafting informative, well-researched, and accessible content.

Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.





Source link

Continue Reading

Regulation

South Korea’s Largest Exchange Upbit Under Sanctions Review by Watchdog

Published

2 hours ago

on

January 22, 2025

By


Upbit, South Korea’s largest crypto exchange, is facing increased scrutiny over alleged Know-Your-Customer (KYC) violations. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of South Korea has scheduled a disciplinary hearing on January 21 to evaluate the exchange’s regulatory compliance. As as result, the crypto market could see significant low activity amid the review

FIU Meeting To Assess Upbit’s KYC Violations

Notably, the FIU revealed that the sanctions review meeting would assess the 500k+ suspected KYC breaches discovered during an on-site inspection for the renewal of the virtual asset service provider (VASP).

Reportedly, this sanctions-level meeting for Upbit marks the first hearing of its kind, addressing issues identified during a VASP renewal inspection. This meeting will determine the extent of sanctions Upbit could face, considering factors like lapses in KYC compliance. Analyzing the crypro exchange’s explanation for its alleged violations, the regulator would determine the severity of fines and disciplinary actions against the platform.

Upbit Faces Scrutiny Under South Korea’s FIU

Since August last year, Upbit facing investigations led by the financial watchdog. During the license renewal process, the FIU uncovered 500,000-600,000 cases of unauthorized customer verification procedures. This includes instances of accounts being approved despite the blurred customer name or registration number, making identification impossible.

Though these cases highlight the exchange’s reluctance to follow regulatory standards, it is still uncertain whether they actually mark KYC breaches. However, following the disciplinary meeting, FIU is likely to draw conclusions, particularly based on Upbit’s explanations.

South Korea’s Crypto Regulatory Norms

South Korea has embarked on its journey to establish a crypto-focused regulatory framework. In a recent development, the Financial Services Commission has kicked off discussions on the second phase of crypto regulations, especially targeting stablecoins and customer protection.

South Korea’s recent collaboration with the US and Japan to tackle the growing crypto threats also underscores the nation’s commitment to user security. Last day, the three countries jointly released a paper, warning against the North Korean hackers’ eye on crypto.

The FIU’s meeting on Upbit’s KYC violation marks a significant turning point in South Korea’s regulatory landscape. While the meeting decides its fate in South Korea, it could have a broader impact on global crypto regulations and laws.

✓ Share:

Nynu V Jamal

Nynu V Jamal is a passionate crypto journalist with three years of experience in blockchain, web3, and fintech spheres. She has established herself as a knowledgeable and engaging voice in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space. Her experience as an Assistant Professor in English Language and Literature has further added to her quest for crafting informative, well-researched, and accessible content.

Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.





Source link

Continue Reading

Regulation

New SEC Leadership Under Donald Trump To Revamp Crypto Regulations

Published

3 hours ago

on

January 22, 2025

By


The incoming administration under President-elect Donald Trump is preparing to introduce changes to cryptocurrency regulations in the United States. Sources indicate that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), under new leadership, will initiate a review of its current policies and enforcement actions related to crypto.

Donald Trump SEC Leadership To Reassess Crypto Enforcement Actions

A recent Reuters report suggests that top officials at the SEC, including Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda, are planning to reassess existing crypto enforcement cases. The focus will be on cases where fraud is not alleged, with the possibility of freezing or withdrawing some lawsuits.

Under the outgoing leadership of Gary Gensler, the SEC pursued at least 83 enforcement actions involving crypto-related companies. These actions targeted firms like Coinbase and Kraken, often on the basis that their tokens were considered securities. Industry participants have long sought clarity on when and how the SEC applies its rules to digital assets.

Sources state that Peirce and Uyeda are expected to call for feedback on potential new crypto regulations. This process will address industry concerns while aligning the SEC’s rules with evolving market conditions.

Meanwhile, Bitcoin advocate Anthony Pompliano has outlined three key actions for Donald Trump to boost U.S. Bitcoin adoption. Anthony proposed repealing SAB 121 for banks to hold Bitcoin, establishing a national Bitcoin reserve, and reforming tax codes to eliminate capital gains tax on BTC payments. Pompliano believes these measures will solidify the U.S. as a crypto leader.

Proposed Regulatory Changes

The SEC is likely to revise its guidance on accounting practices for companies holding crypto assets. The current guidance has reportedly made it costly for listed firms to manage digital tokens for third parties. Changes in this area will lower barriers to institutional participation in the crypto market.

Paul Atkins, Donald Trump pick for Securities and Exchange Commission Chair, has a reputation for supporting crypto-friendly policies. However, his confirmation by the Senate may take some time. Until then, Peirce and Uyeda will lead interim efforts to reshape regulatory priorities.

Trump Administration’s Executive Orders to Accelerate Crypto Overhaul

President-elect Donald Trump is expected to issue executive orders aimed at expediting crypto regulatory reforms. These orders may direct federal agencies, including the SEC, to review their policies and promote innovation in the digital asset sector.

The administration’s pro-crypto stance has already generated excitement within the market. Bitcoin reached $100,000 for the first time in December, reflecting optimism about the regulatory environment under Trump’s leadership.

Despite the optimism, revising regulations and enforcement actions could face challenges. Legal experts note that dismissing pending cases or reopening settlements may lead to objections from courts. Resolving these issues will require careful coordination between the SEC and industry stakeholders.

The new leadership may also need months to finalize and implement any proposed rule changes. Industry representatives have previously criticized the Securities and Exchange Commission for being unwilling to engage in discussions under its former leadership.

In addition, Bitwise CIO highlighted trends driving corporate Bitcoin adoption, including MicroStrategy’s $42B acquisition plans, new FASB rules allowing firms to record BTC gains and pro-crypto policies. These factors, he notes, are encouraging more companies to integrate Bitcoin into their treasuries.

✓ Share:

Ronny Mugendi

Ronny Mugendi is a seasoned crypto journalist with four years of professional experience, having contributed significantly to various media outlets on cryptocurrency trends and technologies. With over 4000 published articles across various media outlets, he aims to inform, educate and introduce more people to the Blockchain and DeFi world. Outside of his journalism career, Ronny enjoys the thrill of bike riding, exploring new trails and landscapes.

Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.





Source link

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2024 coin2049.io