CRYPTO / DIGITAL ASSETS

Crypto / Digital Assets

South Korea Moves to Legalise Won-Based Stablecoins

By Nithya Subramanian | 25/07/2025

Lawmakers have introduced bills to enable Korean won-pegged stablecoins, regulate digital assets, and counter growing dominance of US dollar-backed equivalents.

AML / KYC

Sri Lanka to Start Registering Crypto Firms Ahead of FATF Review

By Duruthu E Chandrasekera | 24/07/2025

The move, driven by an upcoming FATF evaluation, will require VASP registration, but the CBSL stresses it is not legalisation.

Securities / Derivatives

Korea FSS Directs ETFs to Cut Crypto Stock Exposure

By Manesh Samtani | 24/07/2025

The FSS has told asset managers to limit holdings in firms like Coinbase and MicroStrategy, citing a 2017 policy.

Securities / Derivatives

Industry Majors Release Draft Framework for Public Blockchain Risk

By Manesh Samtani | 24/07/2025

A coalition including DTCC, Euroclear and major banks has launched a framework to help regulated firms manage non-financial risks on public blockchains.

Sanctions

UK’s OFSI Warns Crypto Firms Over Sanctions Failures

By Nithya Subramanian | 24/07/2025

A new report found that crypto firms are under-reporting breaches and remain vulnerable to illicit flows from designated entities in Russia, North Korea and Iran.

Crypto / Digital Assets

HKMA Warns of 'Frothiness' in Stablecoin Market, Signals Strict AML Rules

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/07/2025

The HKMA will grant only a handful of stablecoin issuer licences initially and impose stringent AML rules amid concerns over market speculation.

Crypto / Digital Assets

OJK to Impose 'Fit and Proper' Tests on Fintech and Crypto Leaders

By Editors | 23/07/2025

The new regulation, effective from 1 October 2025, aims to strengthen governance and integrity for key personnel at digital asset firms.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Thailand SEC Proposes Broader Auditor Oversight for Digital Asset Firms

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 22/07/2025

The SEC seeks to apply consistent auditing standards to all digital asset firms holding client assets beyond exchanges and brokers.

AML / KYC

Malaysia SC Defends Regulatory Framework for Digital Assets

By Editors | 22/07/2025

The SC has clarified its collaborative approach with BNM, highlighting existing rules and robust enforcement against illicit activities.