Australia Grants First Stablecoin Regulatory Exemption
ASIC allows stablecoin intermediaries to operate without AFS licenses, marking a major step for crypto in Australia.
- ASIC grants a first-ever exemption for stablecoin intermediaries
- No need for a separate AFS, market, or clearing license
- The exemption will activate after federal registration
In a landmark move for the Australian crypto industry, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has introduced a regulatory exemption specifically for stablecoin intermediaries. This new framework permits entities to distribute stablecoins issued by licensed Australian Financial Services (AFS) providers without needing to obtain their own AFS license, or a separate market or clearing license.
This is the first collective exemption of its kind in Australia and represents a shift toward more flexible digital asset regulation. Once the exemption is officially registered under federal legislation, eligible intermediaries will be able to operate under reduced compliance burdens, potentially accelerating the growth of the stablecoin market in the country.
What This Means for the Crypto Industry
The exemption removes a significant barrier for businesses working with stablecoins. Traditionally, firms would have been required to secure multiple licenses to operate legally within the Australian financial system. With the new exemption, intermediaries can focus on innovation and service delivery rather than navigating complex licensing processes.
However, the exemption only applies to stablecoins issued by already licensed AFS providers, ensuring that investor protection standards remain in place. ASIC’s move balances innovation and oversight—a critical factor for mainstream adoption.
Boost for Innovation and Compliance
This initiative positions Australia as a progressive player in the global crypto market. By enabling smoother operations for stablecoin-focused services, ASIC supports innovation while still holding issuers to regulatory standards.
It also signals that regulators are becoming more open to tailoring financial laws for blockchain technologies. Once the federal registration is complete, this framework could serve as a blueprint for future digital asset regulations in Australia and beyond.
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