The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is set to receive expanded powers under the Financial Institutions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2024, currently before the country's parliament. If passed, the bill could significantly impact cryptocurrency firms, particularly Capital Markets Services Licence (CMSL) holders. The proposed amendments aim to empower the MAS to issue directions and set minimum standards for CMSL holders conducting unregulated business, including activities related to cryptocurrency derivatives traded on overseas exchanges.


Key Points:

  • Expanded Powers for MAS: The Financial Institutions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2024 seeks to expand the powers of the MAS, allowing it to issue directions to CMSL holders engaged in unregulated business. The bill highlights concerns about contagion risks arising from the offering of unregulated products by CMSL holders, citing examples such as Bitcoin futures and payment token derivatives traded on overseas exchanges.

  • Risk-Mitigating Measures: While the MAS has already provided guidance on risk-mitigating measures for CMSL holders conducting unregulated business with retail investors, the proposed amendments would empower the regulator to issue written directions on minimum standards and safeguards for such activities. This move is aimed at ensuring a more structured and secure environment for cryptocurrency-related businesses.

  • Impact on Cryptocurrency Exchanges: Cryptocurrency exchanges, potentially holding CMSL licenses, could be directly affected by the expanded powers of the MAS. The regulatory framework surrounding cryptocurrency activities in Singapore is evolving, with recent measures introduced to discourage speculation in cryptocurrency investments and revisions to the stablecoin regulatory framework.

  • Enforcement Measures: The bill includes provisions that grant the MAS additional enforcement measures, including the ability to compel individuals to appear for interviews, make written statements, and enter premises without a warrant. The MAS would also be authorized to obtain court orders to seize evidence. Additionally, the regulator could approve agents appointed by foreign regulators to inspect Singaporean financial institutions.

Implications and Future Developments: The proposed amendments reflect Singapore's commitment to strengthening regulatory oversight in the cryptocurrency space. As the bill progresses through parliament, its impact on cryptocurrency firms, particularly CMSL holders, will be closely monitored. The regulatory landscape for digital assets continues to evolve, and these developments may shape the future framework for cryptocurrency activities in Singapore.

Conclusion: The Financial Institutions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2024, if enacted, would grant expanded powers to the MAS, allowing it to regulate and set standards for cryptocurrency-related businesses. The proposed measures aim to enhance the regulatory framework and address potential risks associated with unregulated activities, signaling Singapore's proactive approach to ensuring a secure and compliant environment for the evolving digital asset industry.


(DEREK ANDERSEN, COINTELEGRAPH, 2023)