Kuwait implements strict crypto ban, setting a global precedent for regulation

TL;DR Breakdown

  • Kuwait’s Capital Markets Authority (CMA) enforces an “absolute prohibition” on significant cryptocurrency transactions.
  • Municipal authorities in Kuwait are barred from granting licenses to businesses providing virtual asset services.
  • Cryptocurrencies are deemed to carry no legal status or support, and their volatility is driven by speculation.

Description

Kuwait, a prominent Middle Eastern nation, has made headlines again by implementing stringent measures to combat illicit cryptocurrency-related activities. The Capital Markets Authority (CMA), Kuwait’s primary financial regulator, has taken a decisive stand against using Bitcoin (BTC) and other virtual assets. In a recent circular released on July 18, the CMA reaffirmed its commitment to … Read more

Kuwait, a prominent Middle Eastern nation, has made headlines again by implementing stringent measures to combat illicit cryptocurrency-related activities. The Capital Markets Authority (CMA), Kuwait’s primary financial regulator, has taken a decisive stand against using Bitcoin (BTC) and other virtual assets.

In a recent circular released on July 18, the CMA reaffirmed its commitment to an “absolute prohibition” of significant cryptocurrency transactions, including payments, investments, and mining.

Beyond mere restrictions, the CMA has also prohibited municipal authorities from granting licenses to businesses seeking to profit from offering virtual asset services. These new regulations, however, do not extend to securities or other financial instruments regulated by the Central Bank of Kuwait or the CMA, ensuring the continued stability of the traditional financial sector.

The CMA has not taken this action lightly, emphasizing extreme caution when dealing with cryptocurrencies due to their inherent risks. As the watchdog states, cryptocurrencies possess “no legal status and are not issued or supported,” making them uncorrelated with any asset or issuer. The CMA highlights that speculative forces primarily drive these digital assets’ volatility and price declines.

To further enforce these measures, the CMA has invoked Article 15 of Law 106 of 2013, which outlines the penalties for violating Kuwait’s Anti-Money Laundering regulations. By aligning itself with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the CMA aims to bolster its efforts in combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism, protecting the country’s national security.

In a coordinated effort, other regulatory agencies in Kuwait, including the Central Bank of Kuwait, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Insurance Regulatory Unit, have reportedly issued circulars echoing the CMA’s stance. This comprehensive crypto ban signifies the country’s resolute commitment to maintaining financial integrity and safeguarding its economy from potential threats.

Kuwait’s move to outlaw cryptocurrencies is a proactive step in addressing emerging challenges in the digital realm. By taking control of this nascent market, Kuwait aims to ensure the stability and security of its financial landscape. The ban on significant cryptocurrency protects investors from potential risks and fortifies the nation’s financial system against illicit practices.

Hence, Kuwait’s resolute decision to implement these regulations should serve as a significant turning point in the global discussion on the regulation of cryptocurrencies. As other nations grapple with similar concerns, Kuwait’s bold stance will likely influence regulatory frameworks worldwide.

Consequently, the country’s actions set a compelling precedent, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to national security and economic stability.

Moreover, Kuwait’s proactive approach emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying risks associated with cryptocurrencies, ranging from money laundering to terrorist financing. By discouraging using virtual assets for illicit purposes, Kuwait actively combats financial crimes and establishes a safer environment for businesses and citizens.

While the ban may be met with some resistance from cryptocurrency enthusiasts and businesses involved in the sector, Kuwait remains firm in its commitment to safeguarding its financial system.

However, the future may hold opportunities for innovative and secure digital assets that align with regulatory frameworks. As the landscape evolves, Kuwait stands poised to adapt its approach, ensuring a resilient and forward-thinking financial ecosystem for its citizens.

Disclaimer. The information provided is not trading advice. Cryptopolitan.com holds no liability for any investments made based on the information provided on this page. We strongly recommend independent research and/or consultation with a qualified professional before making any investment decision.

文章来源于互联网:Kuwait implements strict crypto ban, setting a global precedent for regulation

Disclaimers:

1. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and this info is not liable for any losses you may incur.

2. The copyright of this article belongs to the writer, it represents the writer's opinions only, not represents the site's ones. Not financial advice.

Previous 2023年7月20日 22:37
Next 2023年7月21日 00:06

Related articles

  • Atomic wallet hackers move stolen funds into sanctioned platform

    TL;DR Breakdown Hackers invoked in the Atomic wallet hack have moved stolen funds to a sanctioned platform. Concerns mount over security and regulation in the crypto sector. Reports have emerged suggesting that the illicit funds obtained from the $35 million hack of Atomic Wallet are once again on the move. It is believed that the sanctioned Russian-based crypto exchange Garantex has become the latest entity to come into contact with the hacked cryptocurrency. Lazarus group wants to launder the stolen Atomic wallet funds Blockchain security and compliance firm Elliptic provided an update on the situation, alleging that the North Korean hacking collective known as the Lazarus Group, which is believed to be behind the original attack, has been using Garantex to launder the stolen funds. Elliptic further stated that there had been a joint effort between their team and various exchange partners to freeze the stolen crypto. However, the Lazarus Group has managed to find alternative methods to trade their assets for Bitcoin. In April 2022, the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control had already sanctioned Garantex, along with the…

    Article 2023年6月16日
  • The U.S. is still undecided on issuing CBDC

    TL;DR Breakdown The U.S. is yet to make a decision on issuing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). The launch of FedNow aims to revolutionize payment infrastructure, enabling real-time transactions and increased system resilience. The digital financial ecosystem necessitates improved risk management to counter fraud and ensure consumer protection. The U.S. continues to navigate the uncharted waters of digital financial evolution, with Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the Treasury Department, Graham Steele, underscoring the country’s measured approach to the idea of issuing Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). As he elucidated, the United States has yet to make a concrete decision about whether to introduce a CBDC. FedNow: Pioneering the future of instant payments Among the transformative innovations in the financial sector, the U.S. Treasury’s spotlight shone brightly on FedNow, a service from the Federal Reserve that is poised to redefine interbank payments. This game-changing service, operating 24/7/365, could enable U.S. depository institutions and U.S. branches of foreign banks to process transactions almost instantaneously. The aim is to enhance the U.S. payment landscape, bringing about greater efficiency, competition, and resilience….

    Article 2023年6月17日
  • Mercado Bitcoin set to join Brazil’s CBDC project

    TL;DR Breakdown Mercado Bitcoin has been chosen by Brazil’s central bank as another participant in its CBDC project. The premier bank has also invited Caixa to the team. Description In a significant development for Brazil’s digital currency landscape, the country’s central bank has granted authorization to two prominent entities to participate in the pilot of the digital real, Brazil’s central bank digital currency (CBDC). The largest local cryptocurrency exchange, Mercado Bitcoin, and state-owned bank Caixa have been given the green light to engage in … Read more In a significant development for Brazil’s digital currency landscape, the country’s central bank has granted authorization to two prominent entities to participate in the pilot of the digital real, Brazil’s central bank digital currency (CBDC). The largest local cryptocurrency exchange, Mercado Bitcoin, and state-owned bank Caixa have been given the green light to engage in testing the CBDC along with other consortium members. Mercado Bitcoin joins Brazil’s CBDC project Mercado Bitcoin, leading a consortium that includes Mastercard, broker Genial, registrar Cerc, and financial software fintech Sinqia, will now have the opportunity to contribute…

    Article 2023年6月26日
  • Bitstamp announces temporary suspension of select altcoins for US customers

    TL;DR Breakdown Bitstamp has announced the temporary suspension of select altcoins for users in the United States. Exchanges respond to regulatory scrutiny with token suspensions. Description Cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp has announced its decision to suspend trading of several cryptocurrencies for customers based in the United States starting from August 29th. The move comes in response to recent developments, although the specific reasons behind the suspension were not detailed in the announcement. The seven cryptocurrencies affected by this decision are AXS, Chiliz … Read more Cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp has announced its decision to suspend trading of several cryptocurrencies for customers based in the United States starting from August 29th. The move comes in response to recent developments, although the specific reasons behind the suspension were not detailed in the announcement. The seven cryptocurrencies affected by this decision are AXS, Chiliz (CHZ), MANA, MATIC, Near, SAND, and Solana. Bitstamp asks users to clear the affected tokens before August 29 All of the affected tokens have faced allegations by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of being unregistered securities in complaints against…

    Article 2023年8月10日
  • Polkadot price analysis: DOT price revisit $5.27, a bullish trend to follow?

    TL;DR Breakdown The pair is trading at $5.27 after reaching a high of $5.30 and a low of $5.18. Polkadot price analysis shows an uptrend. DOT/USD is up by 0.82 percent over the past 24 hours.  Polkadot price analysis trades in a bullish trend today. The Bearish trend started the day at $5.22 and has since seen a rise in the price of DOT. It peaked at around $5.30, where it is now acting as a resistance. At the time of writing, DOT is trading at $5.27, representing an increase of 0.82% over the past 24 hours. Polkadot price analysis 1-day chart: Bulls rally above the $5.20 level The 24-hour chart for Polkadot price analysis shows the price of DOT is rising. In the past few hours, as the price of Polkadot has risen from $5.20 to the current $5.27 level, bulls have managed to break past the resistance at $5.20 and are now looking to push toward the next resistance level of $5.30. However, if bears manage to take control of the market, the price could fall back and…

    Article 2023年6月6日
TOP