AML rules for digital assets to come into effect in UAE

Under new rules from the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE), licensed financial institutions (LFIs) would be required to verify the identities of all customers. The update will come into effect “within a month” by the end of June.  On May 31, the CBUAE published guidance for LFIs on risks “related to virtual assets and virtual assets service providers.” A 44-page document specifies the new rules on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism for banking institutions engaging with crypto in the UAE. It takes into account…

US CFTC issues letter on digital asset derivatives, clearing compliance in 3 areas

The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has issued a staff advisory letter to registered derivatives clearing organizations (DCOs) and DCO applicants, reminding them of the risks associated with expanding the scope of their activities. The letter from the CFTC Division of Clearing and Risk (DCR) specifically addressed digital assets. Staff advisory letters can remind addressees of their legal obligations or provide clarity on those obligations. The “DCR expects DCOs and applicants to actively identify new, evolving, or unique risks and implement risk mitigation measures,” it said, continuing: “Over…

U.S. CFTC Warns About Clearing Derivatives Tied to Digital Assets

The derivatives regulator directly regulates crypto futures and has an enforcement reach into fraud and manipulation of spot markets for the trading of non-security crypto assets. It’s expected to have a wider future role as an industry watchdog, but bills that would enhance its authority haven’t yet moved through Congress.  Source

Reserve Bank of India expands digital rupee pilot program

The Reserve Bank of India is enhancing its digital rupee pilot, as it intends to broaden participation and incorporate diverse use cases in the upcoming fiscal year. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is intensifying its digital rupee pilot, representing a significant step towards transforming India’s financial paradigm. According to the yearly report released on May 30, the upcoming fiscal year will witness an enlarged scope of the pilot, involving more participating banks and a diverse range of use cases. The RBI has been running two distinct e-Rupee test projects.…

European Central Bank (ECB) Finalizes Digital Euro Prototype Ahead of Potential CBDC Launch

The ECB has finalized its digital euro prototype scheme as it mulls whether to roll out the government-backed token.  The European Central Bank (ECB) has finalized a digital euro prototype ahead of a development decision. Later this year, the leading central bank would decide whether to develop the fiat euro as a digital variant. According to a Friday report, the ECB examined distributed ledger technology and smart contracts as prime components of a potential digital euro. However, the governing bank has reservations about using decentralized-influenced smart contracts. The ECB’s findings…

Laos Government Organizes Meeting on Blockchain 4.0 and Digital Economy Development

Laos has set up a committee to oversee legal compliance and draft appropriate legislation to prepare for the digital economy. A conference organized by the Laotian government on May 26, 2023, brought together national blockchain and Web3 experts. The meeting’s goal was to discuss the implementation of blockchain 4.0 in Laos’ economic sectors.  The conference examined the digital potential of the nation and ways to apply digital technology to various sectors of the economy. According to reports, MetaBank and the government of Laos are working on a system to aid…

EU’s ECB Finalizes Digital Euro Prototypes as Development Decision Looms

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Laos government reportedly prioritizes blockchain technology for digital transformation

On May 26, the Laotian government reportedly hosted the inaugural Ministerial Conference on Blockchain 4.0 Digital Transformation in the country’s capital, Vientiane. The conference, which was led by Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, was attended by blockchain experts and various leaders from the main economic departments within the country.  Blockchain 4.0 is revolutionizing #Laos. It’s driving financial inclusion, fostering transparency, and enhancing security in transactions. Smart contracts and decentralized finance are opening new avenues for growth. Truly, a game-changer for the nation’s economy. #MetaBankLaos… pic.twitter.com/oyaAKzFNjk — MetaBank (@MetaBankSG) May 27,…