A recent KPMG report shows a 14% decline in the number of active firms in Australia’s blockchain and cryptocurrency sector in 2024. M&A and Investment Activity Subdued in 2024 According to a recently released KPMG report, the number of active firms in Australia’s blockchain and cryptocurrency sector dropped from 85 to 74. This translates to […]
The Australian Federal Police have taken a major step against organized crime by seizing $ 9.3 million in cryptocurrency. The operation uncovered a secret encrypted communication platform, Ghost, leading to the arrest of its alleged mastermind. Through digital forensics, authorities cracked the suspect’s crypto accounts. With previous operations yielding millions in seized assets, the …
The Australian Central Bank is focusing on a wholesale central bank digital currency (CBDC) due to its potential economic benefits compared to a retail CBDC. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has launched Project Acacia, a three-year plan to explore wholesale CBDC opportunities. While the RBA and Treasury could still consider a retail CBDC, a […]
The Australian Federal Court ruled that Kraken’s fiat margin extensions are subject to regulatory obligations, but crypto margin extensions are not. Kraken acknowledged the decision but stressed the need for clearer crypto regulations in Australia. Following the ruling, Kraken adjusted its margin product to restrict fiat margin trading for non-wholesale investors, while crypto margin extensions […]
The Federal Court of Australia has ruled that Bit Trade Pty Ltd., operating crypto exchange Kraken in Australia, failed to meet regulatory obligations for its margin trading product. The product was offered without a required market determination, breaching the Corporations Act. ASIC emphasized the need for compliance in the crypto industry, aiming to ensure consumer […]