IFWG releases position paper on crypto assets

Regulators across the globe are formulating frameworks for dealing with crypto assets as a deeper collective understanding of this technology unfolds. In South Africa, the Intergovernmental Fintech Working Group (IFWG), a group of financial sector regulators, has drafted a policy position paper on crypto assets.

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The purpose of the paper is to provide specific recommendations for the development of a regulatory framework for crypto assets, including suggestions on the required regulatory changes to be implemented. The position paper recommends, among other aspects:

The implementation of an anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regime
A licensing and supervisory regime from a conduct of business perspective
A regulatory regime for the monitoring of cross-border financial flows

This position paper builds on a consultation paper on crypto assets that was first issued by the IFWG on 16 January 2019. The consultation paper highlighted the perceived benefits and risks of crypto asset-related activities, as well as policy proposals for a regulatory framework. It also provided an opportunity for all industry participants and stakeholders to submit comments on the proposals contained in the paper. The comments received were carefully considered in compiling the position paper released on 14 April 2020.

Members of the public and impacted role players and stakeholders are requested to provide comments on the position paper by 15 May 2020. Comments can be submitted by email to innovation@ifwg.co.za.