GameOn founder faces fraud charges

The founder and former CEO of GameOn, an AI startup in San Francisco, has been indicted for orchestrating a six-year-long fraud scheme that allegedly defrauded investors and the company out of over $60 million. Alexander Beckman, 41, faces 23 criminal charges, while his wife, Valerie Lau Beckman, 38, who worked as a lawyer for the company, is charged with 16 counts, including obstruction. Both have pleaded not guilty. The US Securities and Exchange Commission has also filed civil charges against the couple.

Beckman is accused of deceiving investors by inflating the company’s financial status, including fabricating fake customer relationships, overstating revenue, and creating fraudulent bank statements and audit reports. He allegedly went as far as impersonating individuals to share false information. Meanwhile, Lau Beckman allegedly assisted her husband by providing authentic audit reports to help fabricate false documents and delete critical files after an investigation began.

The Beckmans are also accused of misusing investor funds for personal expenses, including purchasing a luxury home, vehicles, and covering costs for their wedding. The fraudulent activities reportedly continued up until Beckman’s resignation as CEO in July 2024. GameOn, which has since been rebranded as On Platform, eventually admitted to the financial discrepancies and laid off most of its employees.

The case underscores the need for integrity in the tech industry, particularly within startups, as federal prosecutors emphasise that fraud cannot fuel innovation.

US launches Cyber trust mark for safer devices

The US government is introducing the Cyber Trust Mark, a new security certification aimed at safeguarding smart home devices against cyber threats. Launching later this year, the programme will provide consumers with a clear indicator of which gadgets meet strict cybersecurity standards set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Devices such as smart cameras, fitness trackers, and baby monitors are among those eligible for the label.

To qualify, manufacturers must implement measures such as strong default passwords, software updates, and data protection protocols. Shoppers can also scan a QR code accompanying the label for detailed security information, including tips on setup and maintenance. The initiative comes in response to the rising threat of hackers targeting home networks, with the average US household now owning over 20 connected devices.

Retail giants like Amazon and Best Buy are backing the programme, highlighting compliant products to help consumers make informed choices. While the Cyber Trust Mark focuses on wireless Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets, some devices, including medical equipment, cars, and wired products, are excluded. The scheme marks a significant step toward protecting homes from cybercrime as digital threats continue to grow.

What impact this label will have on consumer habits remains to be seen, but it’s already drawing support from major tech firms like Google and Samsung, signalling a collective move towards better digital security.

Confusion as Meta users face automatic follow issue with Trump profiles

Meta users in the US are experiencing an unusual phenomenon where they are being automatically re-followed by the accounts of President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and first lady Melania Trump. The issue emerged after users intentionally unfollowed these accounts following the administration’s transition. Feedback from users, including actress Demi Lovato and comedian Sarah Colonna, highlighted frustration over the inability to maintain their choice to unfollow prominent political figures.

Upon the change of administration, official White House social media accounts are supposed to transition smoothly to the new leaders. While Meta’s communications director Andy Stone acknowledged that followers from the Biden administration were carried over to Trump’s accounts, he confirmed that users were not being forced to re-follow these profiles. Stone suggested that delays in processing follow and unfollow requests might contribute to the confusion experienced by users.

Many individuals reported recurrent issues despite efforts to unfollow the accounts multiple times, raising questions about the underlying technicalities involved. Users are expressing concerns over privacy and choice in the use of social media platforms, as the ability to curate their feeds appears compromised. However, this automatic re-following could reflect broader implications for user control in digital spaces.

As Meta has yet to release a detailed response to the reported glitch, users continue to voice their concerns across multiple platforms. The situation underscores an ongoing need for clarity and assurance regarding user preferences in social media interactions, especially during a politically sensitive time.

ByteDance boosts AI spending to strengthen global presence

ByteDance, the Chinese tech giant behind TikTok, has allocated over 150 billion yuan ($20.64 billion) for capital expenditure this year, with a significant focus on AI, according to sources familiar with the matter. About half of the investment will support overseas AI infrastructure, including data centres and networking equipment. Beneficiaries of this spending are expected to include chipmakers Huawei, Cambricon, and US supplier Nvidia, although ByteDance has denied the accuracy of the claims.

The investment aims to solidify ByteDance’s AI leadership in China, where it has launched over 15 standalone AI applications, such as the popular chatbot Doubao, which boasts 75 million monthly active users. Its international counterparts include apps like Cici and Dreamina, reflecting ByteDance’s strategy to adapt its AI offerings globally. The company also recently updated its flagship AI model, Doubao, to rival reasoning models like those developed by Microsoft-backed OpenAI.

ByteDance’s international spending aligns with its efforts to expand AI capabilities abroad amid challenges like the uncertain future of TikTok in the United States. While ByteDance’s $20 billion plan is substantial, it remains modest compared to the AI investments of US tech giants like Google and Microsoft, which spent $50 billion and $55.7 billion respectively on AI infrastructure in the past year. The spending will also bolster ByteDance’s partnerships with suppliers such as Nvidia, from which it has procured custom AI chips tailored to China despite US export restrictions.

TikTok’s return to US app stores still unclear

TikTok users in the United States remain in limbo as the popular app continues to be unavailable for download from Apple and Google app stores. The platform, owned by China’s ByteDance, resumed service following a temporary shutdown, but legal uncertainties have prevented its return to digital storefronts.

The impasse stems from a US law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok or face a nationwide ban due to national security concerns. President Trump recently extended the enforcement deadline, sparking debates about potential buyers, including high-profile figures like Elon Musk. However, no clear resolution has emerged, leaving users and tech giants caught in legal purgatory.

Some frustrated fans have resorted to selling devices with TikTok pre-installed for exorbitant prices on platforms like eBay. Others are attempting workarounds, such as location changes or VPNs, to regain access. Despite these efforts, confusion about TikTok’s long-term future has prompted some users to abandon the app entirely, citing dissatisfaction with political interference.

As negotiations continue, TikTok’s status in the US remains precarious, with both users and the company waiting anxiously for clarity on its fate.

Trump pauses TikTok ban, raising legal and political tensions

President Donald Trump’s executive order delaying the enforcement of a US TikTok ban has created new legal uncertainties for the platform and its service providers, including Google and Apple. Signed on Monday, the order pauses for 75 days a law requiring TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app over national security concerns.

While the order directs the Justice Department to halt enforcement and assures app distributors of no liability during the review period, legal experts warn that the promise offers little protection. Courts do not consider executive orders binding, and Trump could alter or selectively enforce the policy at any time, potentially exposing companies to massive penalties.

The ban, passed by Congress and upheld by the Supreme Court days before Trump’s order, imposes steep fines of $5,000 per user for violations, making compliance a high-stakes gamble for service providers. Critics argue that the legal ambiguity could also open companies to shareholder lawsuits if they ignore the ban based solely on Trump’s directive.

Trump’s move has reignited tensions between the White House and lawmakers, who overwhelmingly supported the ban over fears of Chinese influence. The coming weeks may bring further legal battles and political manoeuvring as the future of TikTok in the US hangs in the balance.

SoftBank’s AI venture signals bold strategy

SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son’s decision to partner with OpenAI and Oracle on a $500 billion AI venture, Stargate, showcases his bold, headline-grabbing approach to dealing with the Trump administration. The project, announced at the White House alongside President Donald Trump, promises to build AI infrastructure in the US and marks a significant part of Son’s earlier $100 billion investment pledge. SoftBank shares surged 11% following the news, reflecting investor confidence in the group’s aggressive strategy.

However, analysts argue that Son’s methods, rooted in rapid decision-making and high-risk bets, are difficult for traditional Japanese corporations to replicate. Japan Inc’s emphasis on long-term planning contrasts sharply with Son’s willingness to embrace Trump’s pro-investment stance to navigate potential tariffs and trade pressures. The reluctance of other Japanese executives to engage directly with Trump highlights a broader struggle to adapt in a politically charged environment.

Son’s flashy investments draw comparisons to his previous $50 billion pledge during Trump’s first term and underscore his vision for AI as a transformative technology. While his moves are reestablishing SoftBank as a global player after setbacks like WeWork’s collapse, questions remain about how the Stargate project will be funded and whether traditional Japanese companies can adapt their strategies to find similar success in Trump’s America.

Microsoft adjusts OpenAI deal after $500 billion Stargate AI venture

Microsoft announced changes to its longstanding agreement with OpenAI following the AI leader’s new partnership with Oracle and SoftBank on a $500 billion AI data centre project, Stargate. The joint venture, unveiled by President Donald Trump at the White House, aims to solidify US leadership in AI, leveraging Nvidia chips and other cutting-edge technologies.

While Microsoft retains exclusive rights to OpenAI’s APIs, the amendments now allow OpenAI to build additional capacity outside of Microsoft’s infrastructure. This paves the way for Oracle’s involvement in Stargate, which will operate as a separate entity with governance rights shared among founding members and external investors like UAE’s MGX. SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son will chair the venture’s board.

Despite this shift, Microsoft remains a central technology partner, continuing to benefit from revenue-sharing agreements with OpenAI and maintaining exclusivity over key offerings through its Azure cloud service. “The key elements of our partnership remain intact through 2030,” Microsoft said, reaffirming its commitment to OpenAI’s long-term growth.

Oracle and OpenAI have not commented on Microsoft’s statements, but the partnership underscores the strategic realignments shaping the future of AI infrastructure in the US.

The global regulatory landscape of crypto: Between innovation and control

Blockchain and cryptocurrencies: transformative forces in modern economies

Blockchain is a digital ledger technology that records transactions securely, transparently, and immutable. It functions as a decentralised database, distributed across a network of computers, where data is stored in blocks linked together in chronological order. Each block contains a set of transactions, a timestamp, and a unique cryptographic hash that connects it to the previous block, forming a continuous chain.

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The decentralised nature of blockchain means that no single entity has control over the data, and all participants in the network have access to the same version of the ledger. This structure ensures that transactions are tamper-proof, as altering any block would require changing all subsequent blocks and gaining consensus from the majority of the network. Cryptographic techniques and consensus mechanisms, such as proof of work or proof of stake, secure the blockchain, verifying and validating transactions without the need for a central authority.

Initially introduced as the underlying technology for Bitcoin in 2009, blockchain has since evolved to support a wide range of applications beyond cryptocurrencies. It enables smart contracts—self-executing agreements coded directly onto the blockchain—and has found applications in industries such as finance, supply chain management, healthcare, and voting systems. Blockchain’s ability to provide transparency, enhance security, and reduce the need for intermediaries has positioned it as a transformative technology with the potential to reshape the way information and value are exchanged globally. Cryptocurrency is a form of digital or virtual currency that relies on cryptography for security and operates on decentralised networks, typically powered by blockchain technology. Unlike traditional currencies issued and regulated by governments or central banks, cryptocurrencies are not controlled by any central authority, which makes them resistant to censorship and manipulation.

At its core, cryptocurrency functions as a digital medium of exchange, allowing individuals to send and receive payments directly without the need for intermediaries like banks. Transactions are recorded on a blockchain, ensuring transparency, immutability, and security. Each user has a unique digital wallet containing a private key, which grants them access to their funds, and a public key, which serves as their address for receiving payments.

Cryptocurrencies often rely on consensus mechanisms like proof of work or proof of stake to validate transactions and maintain the integrity of blockchain. Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency, was launched by an anonymous entity known as Satoshi Nakamoto, to create a decentralised and transparent financial system. Since then, thousands of cryptocurrencies have emerged, each with its own unique features and use cases, ranging from smart contracts on Ethereum to stablecoins designed to minimise price volatility.

MicroStrategy now holds 244,800 bitcoins, worth roughly $9.45 billion, after recent large-scale purchases.

Cryptocurrencies can be used for various purposes, including online payments, investments, remittances, and decentralised finance. While they offer benefits such as lower transaction fees, financial sovereignty, and global accessibility, they also face challenges like regulatory uncertainty, price volatility, and scalability issues. Despite these challenges, cryptocurrencies have become a transformative force in the global economy, driving innovation and challenging traditional financial systems.

Regulation necessity

The need for cryptocurrency regulation arises from the rapid growth and widespread adoption of digital assets, which present both opportunities and risks for individuals, businesses, and governments. While cryptocurrencies offer numerous benefits, such as financial inclusion, decentralised finance, and cross-border transactions, their unique characteristics also create challenges that necessitate oversight to ensure the integrity, stability, and safety of financial systems.

One primary reason for regulation is to protect consumers and investors. The crypto market is highly volatile, with prices often experiencing extreme fluctuations. This instability exposes investors to significant risks, and the lack of oversight has led to numerous cases of fraud, scams, and Ponzi schemes. Regulation can establish safeguards, such as requiring exchanges to implement transparency, security measures, and fair practices, which help protect users from financial losses.

Another critical driver for regulation is the need to combat illicit activities. The pseudonymous nature of cryptocurrencies can make them attractive for money laundering, terrorist financing, tax evasion, and other illegal purposes. By enforcing Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements, regulators can minimise these risks and ensure that digital assets are not exploited for unlawful activities.

Regulation is also necessary to enhance market stability and confidence. The crypto space has seen incidents such as exchange hacks, sudden bankruptcies, and the collapse of major projects, which have caused significant disruptions and undermined trust in the ecosystem. Regulatory frameworks can help ensure the resilience and security of the infrastructure supporting cryptocurrencies, fostering a more stable environment.

Furthermore, as cryptocurrencies increasingly integrate into the global economy, regulation is vital to maintain financial stability. Unregulated digital assets could potentially disrupt traditional economic systems, challenge monetary policies, and create systemic risks. By introducing clear rules for the interaction between cryptocurrencies and traditional finance, regulators can prevent market manipulation and mitigate risks to the broader economy.

Finally, regulatory clarity can encourage legitimacy and adoption. A well-regulated crypto market can attract institutional investors, foster innovation, and create opportunities for businesses while addressing the concerns of sceptics and governments. Clear and consistent regulatory frameworks can also ensure fair competition and enable the crypto industry to coexist with traditional financial systems.

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Cryptocurrency regulation is necessary to protect users, prevent misuse, stabilise markets, safeguard economies, and promote broader adoption. Striking the right balance is essential to supporting innovation while addressing risks, enabling cryptocurrencies to realise their full potential as a transformative financial tool.

The future of crypto regulation worldwide

Global crypto regulation is a complex and evolving landscape, as governments and regulatory bodies around the world approach the issue with varying degrees of acceptance, restriction, and oversight. Cryptocurrencies, by their nature, operate on decentralised networks that transcend borders, making regional or national regulation a challenging task for policymakers. Governments worldwide are introducing rules to govern digital assets, with organisations like the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) emphasising the need for consistent global standards. IOSCO has outlined 18 key recommendations for managing crypto and digital assets, while the WEF’s Pathways to the Regulation of Crypto-Assets provides an overview of recent regulatory developments and highlights the necessity of international alignment in overseeing this rapidly evolving industry.

Although regulatory discussions around crypto assets have been ongoing for years, recent crises, including the collapse of crypto-friendly banks and platforms like FTX, have heightened the urgency for clear rules. These incidents have accelerated the drive for stricter accounting and reporting standards.

Some countries have adopted pro-crypto stances, recognising the technology’s potential for economic growth and innovation. These nations often implement clear regulatory frameworks that encourage blockchain development and crypto adoption while addressing risks such as fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion. For instance, countries like Switzerland, Singapore and El Salvador have established themselves as crypto-friendly hubs by offering favourable regulatory environments that support blockchain startups and initial coin offerings (ICOs).

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Conversely, other nations take a more restrictive approach, either banning cryptocurrencies outright or imposing strict controls. Many countries have implemented comprehensive bans on cryptocurrency trading and mining, citing concerns over financial stability, capital flight, and environmental impacts. Some governments are cautious about the use of cryptocurrencies in illicit activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing, leading to calls for stricter KYC and AML requirements. At the international level, organisations such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) have introduced guidelines aimed at harmonising cryptocurrency regulations across borders. These guidelines focus on combating financial crimes by requiring cryptocurrency exchanges and service providers to implement measures such as customer identification and transaction reporting. In addition to regulating existing cryptocurrencies, many central banks are exploring the development of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) These government-backed digital currencies aim to provide the benefits of cryptocurrencies, such as faster payments and increased financial inclusion, while maintaining centralised control and regulatory oversight.

Overall, global cryptocurrency regulation is dynamic and fragmented, reflecting the varying priorities and perspectives of different jurisdictions. While some countries embrace cryptocurrencies as tools for innovation and financial empowerment, others prioritise control and risk mitigation. The future of crypto regulation is likely to involve a blend of international cooperation and national-level policymaking, as regulators strive to strike a balance between fostering innovation and addressing the challenges posed by this transformative technology.

Let us examine a few examples of regulations.

US cryptocurrency regulation progress

The United States has made slow but steady progress toward establishing a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. Legislative efforts like the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21) and the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act aim to define when cryptocurrencies are classified as securities or commodities and clarify regulatory oversight. Although these bills have yet to gain significant traction, they lay the foundation for future advancements in crypto regulation.

However, Donald Trump’s incoming administration has pledged to position the US as a global leader in cryptocurrency innovation. Plans include creating a Bitcoin strategic reserve, revitalising crypto mining, and pursuing deregulation. The expected nomination of cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins as SEC chair has fueled optimism within the industry, raising hopes for a more collaborative and forward-thinking approach to digital asset regulation.

Trump’s family takes centre stage at the Gulf’s biggest bitcoin conference.

While deregulation is a priority, the sector still requires new rules to address its complexities. Key areas for clarification include defining when crypto assets qualify as securities under the Howey test and refining enforcement strategies to focus on fraud prevention without stifling innovation. Addressing the treatment of secondary crypto trading under securities laws could further enhance the competitiveness of US-based exchanges and keep crypto projects in the country.

By balancing deregulation with essential safeguards, the incoming administration could foster an environment of growth and innovation while ensuring compliance and investor protection. The groundwork being laid today may help shape a thriving future for the US cryptocurrency landscape.

Russia strengthens crypto rules

Russia has taken a significant step in regulating cryptocurrency by introducing new rules aimed at integrating digital assets into its financial system while maintaining economic stability. As of 11 January 2025, the Bank of Russia requires contracts involving digital rights—such as cryptocurrencies, tokenised securities, and digital tokens—used in foreign trade to be registered with authorised banks. This applies to import contracts exceeding RUB 3 million and export contracts over RUB 10 million, underscoring the country’s intent to balance oversight with operational efficiency in international trade.

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The regulations also mandate residents to provide detailed documentation on crypto transactions tied to these contracts. These include records of digital asset transfers or receipts used as payments, along with information on related foreign exchange operations. This level of scrutiny is designed to enhance transparency and mitigate risks, reflecting Russia’s broader goal of establishing a secure and efficient framework for digital assets.

While the move could promote wider adoption of cryptocurrencies by offering regulatory clarity, it also imposes additional compliance obligations on businesses and investors. As digital assets gain prominence in the global economy, Russia aims to leverage their potential while ensuring they are used responsibly within its financial system.

The Bank of Russia’s initiative represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the nation’s digital financial landscape. Market participants will need to adapt to these changes and navigate the new regulatory environment as Russia positions itself at the forefront of crypto regulation.

China’s complex crypto landscape

China has had a complicated relationship with cryptocurrency, once holding the largest market for Bitcoin transactions globally before a crackdown began in 2017. Despite these regulatory restrictions, the blockchain industry in China remains a leader, with over 5,000 blockchain-related companies. China’s government continues to restrict domestic cryptocurrency trading and initial coin offerings (ICOs), citing concerns over volatility, anonymous transactions, and lack of centralised control. However, major blockchain companies like Binance and Huobi remain influential, and China still leads in blockchain projects globally.

Legally, China does not recognise cryptocurrency as legal tender. Instead, it considers them virtual commodities. Since 2013, the government has implemented several regulations aimed at restricting cryptocurrency trading and protecting investors. These regulations include a ban on domestic cryptocurrency exchanges, and ICOs, as well as the participation of financial institutions in cryptocurrency activities. Although the country has not passed comprehensive cryptocurrency legislation, the government has consistently emphasised that trading virtual currencies carries risks for individuals.

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China has also addressed the taxation of cryptocurrency profits. Income generated from trading virtual currencies is subject to individual income tax, specifically categorised under ‘property transfer income.’ Tax authorities require individuals to report the purchase price and taxes, with the government stepping in to determine prices if proof is not provided. The approach demonstrates China’s ongoing control over cryptocurrency activities within its borders.

Despite the regulatory restrictions, China’s blockchain sector remains robust and influential. The government is clearly focused on managing the risks associated with digital currencies while fostering blockchain innovation, which is likely to continue to influence global cryptocurrency trends.

EU’s comprehensive crypto framework

At the forefront of regulatory efforts is the European Union, which unveiled its comprehensive regulatory framework known as the Markets in Crypto-Assets Act (MiCA) in 2020. After nearly three years of development, MiCA was approved by the European Parliament in April 2023, with the enactment date set for 30 December 2024. The MiCA framework aims to create legal clarity and consistency across the EU, streamlining the regulatory approach to crypto assets. Before MiCA, crypto firms in the EU had to navigate a complex landscape of varying national regulations and multiple licensing requirements, but the new legislation provides a unified licensing structure, which will apply across all 27 member states.

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MiCA applies to all crypto assets that fall outside traditional EU financial regulations, covering everything from electronic money tokens (EMTs) and asset-referenced tokens (ARTs) to other types of crypto assets. These assets are defined based on how they function and are backed. EMTs, for example, are digital assets backed by a single fiat currency, while ARTs are pegged to a basket of assets. MiCA does not automatically apply to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) unless they share characteristics with other regulated assets. Additionally, decentralised applications (dApps), decentralised finance (DeFi) projects, and decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) may not be fully subject to MiCA, unless they do not meet the criteria for decentralisation.

Businesses that offer crypto-asset services, known as crypto-asset service providers (CASPs), are at the heart of MiCA’s regulatory scope. These include entities involved in cryptocurrency exchanges, wallet services, and crypto trading platforms. Under MiCA, CASPs will need to obtain authorisation to operate across the EU, with a unified process that eliminates the need for multiple licenses in each country. Once authorised, these businesses can offer services across the entire EU, provided they comply with requirements around governance, capital, anti-money laundering, and data protection.

MiCA also introduces important provisions for stablecoins, particularly fiat-backed stablecoins, which must be backed by a 1:1 liquid reserve. However, algorithmic stablecoins—those that do not have explicit reserves tied to traditional assets—are banned. Issuers of EMTs and ARTs will be required to obtain authorisation and provide whitepapers, outlining the characteristics of the assets and the risks to prospective buyers. MiCA’s regulations are designed to protect consumers, reduce market manipulation, and ensure that crypto activities remain secure and transparent.

This regulatory shift is expected to reshape the crypto landscape in the EU, offering businesses and consumers clearer protections and encouraging market integrity. As MiCA comes into effect in 2025, its impact is likely to reverberate beyond Europe, as other nations look to adopt similar frameworks for managing digital assets.

Japan’s evolving crypto regulations

Japan is considering lighter regulations for cryptocurrency intermediaries that are not crypto exchanges. The Financial Services Agency (FSA) recently proposed this to the Financial System Council, following Japan’s early cryptocurrency regulation after the Mt. Gox hack. Currently, crypto intermediaries such as apps or wallets that connect users to exchanges must register as crypto asset exchange service providers (CAESPs), but many do not handle customer funds directly.

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To reduce the regulatory burden, the FSA is exploring a system where intermediaries would register, provide user information, follow advertising restrictions, and potentially be liable for damages. They might also be required to maintain a security deposit, with exchanges absorbing liability for affiliated intermediaries. This proposal aims to create a more flexible regulatory framework for crypto-related businesses that do not operate exchanges.

Brazil’s new crypto market law

In late 2022, the National Congress approved a bill regulating the cryptocurrency market, focusing on areas like competition, governance, security, and consumer protection. The Central Bank of Brazil (BCB) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) will oversee its implementation. While there was no specific crypto regulation before, the new law will require companies, including exchanges, to obtain licenses, register with the Brazilian National Registry of Legal Entities (CNPJ), and report suspicious activities to the Council for Financial Activities Control (COAF).

Brazil aims for technological autonomy with a new AI investment initiative.

The regulation mandates KYC (Know Your Customer) and KYT (Know Your Transaction) practices to combat money laundering. It also aligns with the Penal Code of Brazil, enforcing penalties for fraud and crimes. Notably, exchanges must separate client assets from company assets, a provision not yet included in the law but proposed by the Brazilian Association of Cryptoeconomics (ABCripto).

The law was set to take effect between May and June 2023, with full implementation, including licensing rules, expected by 2025. While the decentralised nature of the global crypto market presents challenges, the new regulatory framework aims to offer greater security and attract more investors to the growing Brazilian crypto market.

UK push for crypto regulation

The United Kingdom has taken significant steps to regulate digital currencies, mandating that any company offering such services must obtain proper authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This regulation is part of a broader effort to establish a clear and secure framework for digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and digital tokens, within the UK financial ecosystem. One area of particular focus is stablecoins, which are digital currencies pegged to stable assets, such as the US dollar or the British pound. Stablecoins have garnered attention for their potential to revolutionise the payments sector by offering faster and cheaper transactions compared to traditional payment methods.

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The Bank of England has proposed new regulations specifically targeting stablecoins to maximise their benefits while addressing potential risks. These proposed rules aim to strike a balance between encouraging innovation in digital payments and ensuring the financial system’s stability. The regulations are designed to ensure that stablecoins do not pose risks to consumer protection or the integrity of the financial market, particularly in terms of preventing money laundering and illicit financial activities.

This move highlights the UK’s proactive approach to digital asset regulation, aiming to foster a secure environment where cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies can thrive without undermining the broader financial infrastructure. The efforts also underscore the UK’s commitment to consumer protection, ensuring that individuals and businesses engaging with digital currencies are properly safeguarded. With this comprehensive regulatory approach, the UK is positioning itself as a leader in the integration of digital currencies into traditional finance, setting a precedent for other nations exploring similar regulatory frameworks.

Kenya΄s crypto regulation attempt

Kenya’s journey with cryptocurrency regulation has evolved from scepticism to a more open stance as the government recognises its potential benefits. Initially, in the early 2010s, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin were viewed with caution by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), citing concerns over volatility, fraud, and lack of consumer protection. This led to a public warning against the use of virtual currencies in 2015. However, the growing global interest in digital currencies, including in Kenya, continued, with nearly 10% of Kenyans owning cryptocurrency by 2022, driven by factors such as financial inclusion and the appeal of blockchain technology.

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A turning point for Kenya came in 2018, when the government set up a task force to explore blockchain and the potential of AI, building on the success of mobile money services like M-Pesa. By 2023, the country began assessing money laundering risks associated with virtual assets, signalling a shift in attitude toward cryptocurrencies. By December 2024, the government introduced a draft National Policy on Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), outlining a regulatory framework to guide the development of the market.

The proposed regulations include licensing requirements for cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet providers, as well as measures to prevent money laundering and countering and terrorist financing. Consumer protection and cybersecurity are also central to the framework, ensuring that users’ funds and personal data are safeguarded. The draft regulations are open for public consultation until 24 January 2025, with the government seeking input from industry players, consumer groups, and the public.

Kenya’s path from opposition to embracing cryptocurrency reflects a broader trend towards digital financial innovation. By creating a balanced regulatory environment, Kenya hopes to position itself as a leader in Africa’s digital financial revolution, fostering economic growth and financial inclusion, much like the success it achieved with M-Pesa.

The need for a global approach

As we already explained, the international nature of cryptocurrency markets presents unique regulatory challenges. Cross-border activities increase the risk of fraud and investor harm, highlighting the necessity of consistent global standards. The WEF emphasises that international collaboration is “not just desirable but necessary” to maximise the benefits of blockchain technology while mitigating risks.

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Differences in market maturity, regulatory capacity, and regional priorities complicate alignment. However, organisations such as IOSCO or the Financial Stability Board (FSB)  stress the role of international bodies and national regulators in fostering a unified regulatory framework. A global approach would not only enhance consumer protections but also create an environment conducive to innovation, ensuring the responsible evolution of cryptocurrency markets.

As the crypto ecosystem evolves, governments and international organisations are working to balance innovation and regulation. By addressing the challenges posed by digital assets through comprehensive, coordinated efforts, the global community aims to create a stable and secure financial environment in the digital age.

Trump signs executive order on speech rights

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday aimed at safeguarding free speech and ending online censorship. The move comes amid allegations by Trump and Republican allies that the Biden administration suppressed speech on social media platforms. Critics argue, however, that many of these accusations centred on government actions against misinformation about vaccines and elections, which courts have upheld as lawful.

Despite his push for free speech protections, Trump’s history complicates the message. Over the years, he has threatened and sued critics, including journalists, political opponents, and media organisations. Most notably, his lawsuits against Hillary Clinton and several major media outlets have either been dismissed or remain unresolved. Additionally, Trump faced social media restrictions following the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, which was fueled by false election claims.

Legal experts, such as David Kaye, have dismissed Trump’s order as symbolic. Kaye criticised the move as contradictory, pointing to Trump’s labelling of the press as the “enemy of the people” while claiming to champion free speech. He argued the federal government is already prohibited from interfering with First Amendment rights, rendering the order largely redundant.