In a significant progression for the digital asset landscape, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a decisive step by exempting cryptocurrency transactions from value-added tax (VAT). This anticipated amendment, effective from November 15, 2024, marks a pivotal shift in the adoption and acceptance of digital currencies within the region’s financial ecosystem. The change is
Regulation
In a rapidly evolving financial environment, the European Union (EU) stands at a crossroads. With digital assets and distributed ledger technology (DLT) on the rise, there is a pressing need for Europe to transform its fragmented capital markets into a unified, efficient system. Piero Cipollone, a prominent member of the European Central Bank (ECB) Executive
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) is taking significant strides towards shaping a more regulated environment for cryptocurrency firms in the region. As reported by local media on October 7, the SFC intends to expand the number of licenses granted to crypto businesses by the end of the year, marking a pivotal moment
In a significant move reflecting the ongoing evolution of financial practices, Ohio State Senator Niraj Antani has introduced legislation that could vault Ohio into the forefront of cryptocurrency adoption within state governance. The proposed legislation, introduced on September 30, aims to legitimize the use of Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets for fulfilling tax and
The Hong Kong Virtual Asset Exchange (HKVAX) has marked a significant milestone by obtaining licensing from Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). This achievement positions HKVAX as the third licensed cryptocurrency exchange in the bustling metropolis, further cementing its reputation as a regulatory beacon in an evolving market. What sets HKVAX apart is its
As global interest in cryptocurrencies surges, Japan stands at a crossroads, meticulously recalibrating its regulatory landscape to adapt to the evolving digital asset sphere. The Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan has initiated a critical reassessment of its existing cryptocurrency regulations, with foundational changes expected by 2025. This reassessment, aimed at creating a more conducive
Ripple, the leading blockchain technology firm known for its innovative payment solutions, has recently achieved a remarkable milestone by obtaining in-principle approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). This development, announced on October 1, underscores Ripple’s aspirations to enhance financial service innovation within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As the first blockchain-based payment service
In a significant decision, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit concluded that betting on U.S. elections through prediction markets is legal. This ruling, issued on October 2, 2023, came after the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) sought to impose restrictions on such markets, particularly targeting Kalshi, a prediction platform.
In a bold move to enhance the United Kingdom’s standing in the global financial landscape, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) alongside the Bank of England has initiated the latest phase of their Digital Securities Sandbox (DSS). This innovative environment aims to facilitate a controlled setting for firms to trial distributed ledger technology (DLT) and tokenized
In an effort to ensure greater consumer protection in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance, Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has unveiled updated marketing guidelines for virtual asset firms. Beginning October 1, these regulations necessitate a more transparent approach to advertising digital currencies, setting a new standard for investor awareness in the UAE. This
