The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) recently announced amendments to its cryptocurrency token regime to bolster and progress the regulatory framework for tokens within its special economic zone.

The DFSA, an independent regulator in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) overseeing entities registered in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a special economic zone in the country, has made significant updates to its crypto token regime. The amendments, introduced following the Consultation Paper 153 released in January 2024, cover key areas such as funds investing in crypto tokens and the recognition process for crypto tokens.

Funds Investing in Crypto Tokens

Regarding funds, the revisions allowed external and domestic funds to offer units investing in recognized crypto tokens. Previously, the DFSA had imposed restrictions on fund activities involving crypto tokens. In response to feedback from fund and asset managers, who found the regulatory approach too stringent, the DFSA decided to relax the limitations on External Funds and Foreign Funds investing in Crypto Tokens. Additionally, domestic qualified investor funds can now invest in unrecognized tokens with a limit of 10% of the fund's gross asset value (GAV).

Token Recognition Fees and Stablecoin Criteria

Before the amendments, the application fee for token recognition stood at $10,000 per token. In light of concerns raised about the high fee, particularly for firms seeking recognition for multiple tokens, the DFSA reduced the fee to $5,000. Furthermore, the regulator introduced additional criteria for recognizing stablecoins, crypto tokens pegged to fiat currencies. The aim is to provide flexibility to recognize Fiat Crypto Tokens issued in other jurisdictions with comparable regulation.

Fostering Innovation

DFSA's chief executive, Ian Johnston, highlighted that the regulator's goal with the crypto token regime is to encourage innovation in a responsible and transparent manner while meeting regulatory objectives. The DFSA is committed to evolving the regime in alignment with global best practices and standards, reflecting market developments, international recommendations, and supervisory experience.

These amendments signify the DFSA's dedication to adapt and enhance the regulatory environment for crypto tokens in response to market dynamics and the evolving needs of the industry.