Virtual Assets

Explore the dynamic world of virtual assets and their regulatory challenges. Stay ahead on the evolving landscape of virtual asset regulation and best practices for financial institutions.

Crypto Under the Microscope

In the fast-evolving digital assets market, compliance is not just a regulatory requirement—it's a strategic imperative. From Binance's multi-billion-dollar settlement to the dramatic collapse of FTX, recent enforcement actions have sent shockwaves through the industry, underscoring the critical need for a robust compliance system.

Embracing Emerging Technologies through Capability Development

Risk is perceived to be higher when a subject area is unfamiliar, which is particularly likely for emerging technologies and products. One solution is to develop the capability of staff through training and experience, where Chief Compliance Officers can utilize partners to support upskilling and augment internal capability where required. Digital assets provide a good case study: detailed knowledge within financial institution compliance and business teams to manage risks while enabling business growth.

Russian Use of Crypto for Sanctions Evasion on the Rise

Experts agree there isn't enough liquidity in the virtual assets space to enable largescale sanctions evasion by Moscow, but sanctioned individuals and entities have used virtual currencies—most notably Tether—to access the global financial system and pay for restricted goods and technologies. Explore recent designations, how cryptocurrencies and other virtual assets are being leveraged to facilitate evasion as well as risk mitigation strategies for financial institutions in our latest article.

AI in Crypto Security: Navigating the Dual Edges of Innovation and Vulnerability

As cryptocurrencies gain mainstream acceptance, they also become a new frontier for financial crimes, including money laundering, fraud, and the financing of terrorism. Amidst this burgeoning digital economy, AI emerges as both a beacon of hope to help prevent crimes and a potential threat, giving illicit actors additional resources to move proceeds of crime. The dual nature of AI in combating or facilitating crypto-related financial crimes presents a complex puzzle: Is AI a harbinger of risk or the ultimate solution to mitigate it in this digital age of ambiguity? 

Digital Assets in the Crosshairs

As the digital economy burgeons, cryptocurrencies, tokens, and NFTs have shifted from niche investments to central elements in global finance. Yet, this rapid growth brings complex challenges, especially in the realm of financial security and regulatory compliance. Explore how these assets are increasingly being used to fund activities that threaten global security.

Crypto Jargon Defined: Bridging the Gap Between Complexity and Comprehension

From mixers and tumblers to hot and cold wallets, the crypto space is laden with complex jargon. Explore our post in which we simplify the language of the digital economy. Ideal for enthusiasts at any level—from curious beginners to those seeking deeper insights—this guide illuminates the path to mastering the nuances of digital, virtual, and crypto assets.

Beyond The Hype: The True Role of Virtual Assets in Russia Sanctions Evasion

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With the onset of stringent sanctions against Russia in 2022, US officials and financial analysts began to speculate about the potential for cryptocurrencies to serve as a means for evasion. But can virtual assets enables a nation's efforts to evade sanctions?

Bitcoin Breakthrough – Navigating the New Era of SEC-Approved Spot Bitcoin ETPs

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The US Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) landmark approval of 11 Spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Products (ETPs) from several leading financial firms, including BlackRock, Fidelity, and Grayscale Investments, this month marks a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for virtual assets.

A Pivotal Year for Virtual Assets – 2023 Highlights

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2023 was a year of significant upheavals in the world of virtual assets, highlighting glaring vulnerabilities and the dire need for regulatory interventions. From major financial losses caused by security breaches to high-profile legal battles and settlements, 2023 was chock full of developments that almost certainly demonstrate the resilience and endurance of virtual currencies.

What Financial Institutions Can Learn from the Binance Settlement

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Explore lessons learned from the recent Binance settlement including risk mitigation strategies for banks and other financial institutions.