Compliance Alert: DMCC and SCA signed an MoU for Crypto Assets Businesses
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Securities & Commodities Authority (SCA) to establish a regulatory framework to offer, issue, list and trade crypto assets in DMCC.
As part of the agreement, crypto-assets businesses will have access to:
- bespoke licenses offered by the DMCC Crypto Centre
- exceptional customer service
- range of incentives
- a strong business regulatory framework developed by DMCC (in consultation with SCA).
There will be one approving authority, SCA, who will approve crypto assets related business proposing to set up in DMCC. Once approved, the SCA will also supervise the crypto asset activities in line with the regulatory framework that was introduced in October 2020.
The MoU will facilitate in developing an integrated ecosystem for the crypto and blockchain industries.
Key Takeaways
While the existing framework allowed the crypto assets businesses to set-up in the UAE mainland after obtaining SCA’s approval. The MOU is a path-breaking move for the Crypto Asset industry proposing to set-up with a 100% foreign ownership and also at the same time be supervised by the SCA, a securities’ regulator in the UAE, in relation to crypto-assets businesses.
The above development builds on DMCC’s comprehensive strategies to promote technology-driven trade and to attract innovative companies to Dubai and builds the foundation for any future partnerships in the crypto space. The launch of the DMCC Crypto Centre is a major step in implementing the framework.
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We are a team of highly skilled and qualified professionals, specialized expertise as a certified anti-money laundering specialist including a FATF trained legal expert examiner, experience across the financial services industry and multiple related fields from reputable jurisdictions.
We assist in understanding and meeting the regulatory obligations and compliance in the UAE (including DIFC/DFSA, ADGM/FSRA, SCA and Central Bank) for a proposed regulated set-up or existing business. Our expertise spans a wide range of financial services activities including FinTech and digital assets, wealth management, banking, fund management and others.
Our comprehensive regulatory and compliance service offerings include:
- Preparation of application for authorization
- Preparation of Regulatory Business Plan
- Drafting of policies and procedures aligned to the relevant regulatory obligations as per the rulebooks
- Liaising with SCA and DMCC for financial services permission and company set-up
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Authors
Gail Goring
Partner & Head – Regulatory & Compliance Services
Nisha Shah
Associate Director – Regulatory & Compliance Services
Collaborator
Divine Manjali
Compliance Associate