Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) is actively seeking input from industry participants on proposed new licensing regulations for over-the-counter (OTC) cryptocurrency services. The initiative aims to establish a comprehensive framework that mandates licensing and adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing regulations. This move, which includes joint supervision by the SFC and […]
Lengthy Licensing Stumps Kenyan Fintech Startups
Fintech startups face significant challenges when expanding to Kenya, primarily due to the lengthy and complex process of obtaining an operating license. Obtaining a payment service provider (PSP) license can take up to two years, forcing startups to rely on workarounds such as partnerships with established players like telcos and banks. High market entry barriers […]
Cryptocurrency Firm Abra Settles With 25 US States Over Licensing Violations
Financial authorities in 25 U.S. states have reached a settlement with the cryptocurrency investment platform Abra and its CEO Bill Barhydt for operating without proper licensing. This settlement mandates significant changes in how Abra conducts its operations within these states. Abra Reaches Settlement Over Unlicensed Operations, Agrees to Major Concessions According to a report from […]
‘Community-Based IP’ — Yuga Labs CEO Describes Web3 Evolution of Licensing to Japanese Government Official
In a recent “fireside chat” with the deputy director of the Web3.0 Policy Office of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, Yuga Labs CEO Daniel Alegre noted: “We’re not even in the first inning” of where Web3 “evolution” is going to go. During the interview with the politician, Alegre described new models of IP […]