Singapore Slams the Gavel on Rogue Crypto Operators—New Licensing Rules Demand Compliance or Exit

Singapore tightens the screws on unlicensed crypto firms with a regulatory hammer—forcing them to shape up or ship out.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) isn’t playing nice anymore. New rules demand crypto businesses secure licenses or face the music—no more gray-area operations tolerated.

Welcome to the era of ’regulation by exhaustion,’ where only the well-connected survive. Meanwhile, traditional finance laughs into its overpriced coffee.

Singapore’s financial authority announces that unlicensed crypto firms operating overseas after June 30 will be ceased. 

Thestated that local crypto providers, which offer digital tokens abroad, will be stopped under its. 

Singapore enforces strict regulations for unlicensed crypto providers 

MAS stated that any entity providing digital tokens abroad must cease operating or acquire alicense when it comes into force at the end of the month.  

MAS emphasised that no grace period will be provided to the local crypto providers since they will have enough time to obtain a license. Officials affirmed that MAS will enhance its surveillance and will investigate any suspicious activity designed to evade regulations. 

For Individuals- This licensing requirement also applies to individuals working independently in the crypto arena, depending on their role, whether their business is conducted from Singapore.  

The only exceptions are the firms licensed or exempted under existing laws (such as the Securities and Futures Act, the Financial Advisors Act, or the Payment Services Act) are free from this obligation.  

What is the responsibility of Singaporean firms? Innovation and Safeguarding Consumers

The Central Bank of Singapore announced–

“This approach strikes a balance between promoting innovation and safeguarding consumers.” It aims to foster a secure and transparent crypto ecosystem. 

• While officials are overseeing safeguarding, firms will be required to hold at least $185,000 in base capital
• Fresh due diligence is required on customers
• Comply with the FATF travel rule and the technology risk standard in Singapore

What is the outcome for non-compliance? Penalty for violators

Under section 137 of the FSM Act, it is mandatory for all entities operating from Singapore to obtain a license to continue their legalized work. Organizations not complying with this law will be subjected to a fine of up to 250,000 Singaporean dollars ($200,000) and imprisonment of up to three years. 

Conclusion

So far, MAS has issued 33 digital payment token licenses, including Coinbase and Anchorage. This approach will resolve the problems of money laundering and terrorism financing risks. This is the ultimate step by Singapore to ensure AML/ CFT compliance.