Search Results for: Autorité des Marchés Financiers

France’s Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) is updating its digital asset regulatory structure in preparation for the new Market in Crypto Asset (MiCA) regulation. The changes target the General Regulation and the registration process for Digital Asset Service Providers (DASPs), requiring timely disclosure of novel developments to regulatory bodies.

France’s top markets regulator, the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), calls for a globally coordinated approach to decentralized finance (DeFi) regulation, aiming to protect investors and foster innovation. The AMF highlights the challenges in categorizing and regulating DeFi protocols, emphasizing the need for consistency and uniformity in regulations across borders. A globally coordinated approach could potentially shape the DeFi industry’s future, ensuring a level playing field while promoting innovation and investor protection.

France is introducing a ‘Responsible Influence Certificate’ for finance bloggers or “finfluencers” to bring more oversight and credibility into promotion of investment products, including cryptocurrency. Despite not being obligatory, it represents a potential regulation method for online financial advice.

“Hex Trust, a digital asset custodian, is now registered in France, marking a significant step in its expansion in Europe. This opens doors to provide custody of digital assets and enable crypto transactions within France and Italy. Critics argue this move may foster recklessness in a volatile market.”

“France emerges as a key player in the global crypto stage, thanks to supportive regulators, robust Web3 development, and a thriving talent community. The country’s inclusive attitude towards crypto, flexible regulatory framework, and significant investments in technology sectors positions it at the forefront of the European crypto ecosystem.”

SG Forge, Societe Generale’s digital asset unit, has procured a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) license and become the first entity to achieve this certification in France. The company’s strides in adhering to regulatory requirements highlight the importance of alignment with the European Union’s crypto regulations, providing assurance of both compliance and banking security.

Forge, a Societe Generale subsidiary, is now France’s first licensed crypto provider. The company can custody, buy, sell, and trade digital assets for legal currency. However, the stringent approval process favors traditional banks, causing concerns over market fairness. This development underscores the balance between crypto business growth and regulatory prudence.

SG Forge, Societe Generale’s cryptocurrency division, has attained the first license to offer cryptocurrency services in France. This milestone required stringent regulatory compliance, adding credibility. While highlighting France’s strict regulatory environment, it paves a path for future licensing while challenging unlicensed firms to reconsider strategies.

CACEIS Bank, the asset servicing subsidiary of Crédit Agricole and Santander, acquires crypto custody license in France to store users’ private keys and increase institutional clients’ security. With a €2.4 trillion AUM, CACEIS avoids France’s impending stricter regulations while adhering to the EU’s MiCA legislation next year.

Credit Agricole’s CACEIS, a joint venture with Santander, recently registered as a digital asset services provider in France. The European Union has adopted the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) framework, aiming to establish comprehensive regulations for cryptocurrencies in Europe, implementing environmental safeguards, supervisory provisions, and consumer protections. French market demonstrates openness to digital assets while balancing decentralization with stricter licensing requirements.

According to the French stock market regulator AMF’s annual report, digital asset-related mediations and registered digital asset service providers (DASPs) significantly increased in 2022. This growth could indicate increased industry adoption but also raises concerns about potential disputes and the need for stronger oversight.

Many crypto CEOs, including Coinbase’s Brian Armstrong and Ripple’s Brad Garlinghouse, are considering European markets, especially France, for more lenient crypto regulations. With 72 registered crypto companies in France and clearer regulation compared to the US, European markets may attract more businesses.

France is attracting crypto businesses seeking refuge from regulatory uncertainty in the United States. French regulations provide predictability and stability for crypto companies, with approximately 74 registered firms and potential to increase to 100 ahead of MiCA regulations in 2025.

The French Senate’s Committee on Economic Affairs approved an amendment allowing registered cryptocurrency companies to hire social media influencers for promotional purposes, marking a shift from earlier restrictions. This presents growth opportunities for the French crypto market but raises concerns about consumer protection and responsible advertising.