ASIC issues sweeping new guidance on digital assets and 'no-action' until 2026 for a range of providers

After nearly a year of anticipation, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission ( ASIC ) has released its finalised update to Information Sheet 225 (INFO 225) , setting out its views on when digital asset products and services fall within the scope of Australia’s financial services laws. The release coincides with a range of 'no-action' relief instruments giving the industry breathing space until 30 June 2026. This is a major development for anyone operating in the

Oct 30, 20258 min read

UK regulator backs fund tokenisation plans

The UK Financial Conduct Authority ( FCA ) has released a huge consultation paper CP25/28 titled 'Progressing Fund Tokenisation' which outlines new rules for fund tokenisation and direct-to-fund dealing. The paper expands on the 2023 Blueprint published by the Investment Association's Technology Working Group, which introduced a phased roadmap for fund tokenisation. The FCA has clearly put a huge amount of work into this document, which defines tokenisation as a method of re

Oct 29, 20254 min read

Binance Founder CZ Pardoned, is SBF next?

The Trump Administration has been unashamedly pro-crypto, seeking to craft innovation supporting rules and changing the leadership at the previously anti-crypto Securities & Exchange Commission. This approach has dialed up further with news that Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao has been pardoned today for his conviction in connection with a prosecution of Binance for breaching sanctions and anti-money laundering laws. After the Department of Justice commenced that prosecut

Oct 24, 20252 min read

British Columbia Places Permanent Ban on New Crypto Mining Projects

In an update to a temporary moratorium in place since 2022, and cutting against the global thaw on crypto engagement and policy of the USA to promote more cryptocurrency business, British Columbia has announced a permanent ban on new cryptocurrency mining projects from accessing the provincial electricity grid. This decision is said to arise from concerns over the environmental effects of cryptocurrency mining and its hefty electricity demands, but this is curious given the

Oct 23, 20252 min read

Australia publishes draft stablecoin and payments legislation

The Australian Government has released exposure draft legislation which will regulate stablecoins as a standalone financial product and make significant amendments to Australia's payments legislation. The proposed laws will apply financial services licensing obligations to stablecoin issuers and introduce bespoke reporting and compliance obligations carrying hefty civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Daniel

Oct 20, 20253 min read