“Cryptocurrency firms in Namibia will operate under the newly sanctioned Virtual Assets Act, marking a regulatory shift from 2017 when crypto exchanges were considered illegal. Notably, the new regulation, referred to as a ‘skeleton’ for its initial form, raises both excitement and skepticism about the future of blockchain companies in the country.”
Search Results for: Namibia
Jimmy Butler’s Crypto Lawsuit & Namibia’s Pivot to Regulation: The Ongoing Crypto Dilemma
Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat basketball player, seeks dismissal from a lawsuit alleging he promoted unregistered securities via Binance. He argues his tweets were warnings against celebrity crypto endorsements. Meanwhile, Namibia has begun regulating virtual asset service providers, although cryptocurrencies aren’t accepted as legal tender. The tug of war between promotion and restriction characterizes cryptocurrency’s disruptive potential.
Namibia Embraces Crypto Regulations: A Breakthrough or a Setback?
“Namibia has signed a law regulating Virtual Asset Service Providers, reversing its 2017 ban on crypto exchanges. The law aims to enhance consumer protection, curb market abuse, and mitigate money laundering and terrorism financing risks. However, severe penalties apply for non-compliance and cryptocurrencies still hold no legal tender status in Namibia, potentially creating a hostile environment for crypto businesses.”
Emerging Legislative Storm: Namibian Crypto Regulations and Their Potential Impact
Namibia’s National Assembly is taking steps towards regulating cryptocurrencies and their service providers, with penalties for non-compliance including a N$15 million fine or 10-years jail. The proposed legislation establishes a Regulatory Authority aimed at safeguarding consumer interests, preventing market manipulation and fostering innovation in virtual assets.
Soaring Bitcoin Fees Push Africa Towards Lightning Network and Stablecoins: Boon or Bane?
Bitcoin users in Africa increasingly adopt the Lightning network and stablecoins as transaction fees soar to a two-year high. The shift in demand results from rising costs on the base layer, leading customers to prefer stablecoins like USDT or opt for faster, low-volume Lightning network transactions. However, challenges persist with instability in wallets, limited exchange support, and congestion. Despite setbacks, this situation could encourage further integration of the Lightning network and growth in the long-term.