Emerging Regulatory Landscape

Digital asset management firm 21. co predicts that the market for tokenised assets may reach $10 trillion by 2030 as traditional financial institutions embrace blockchain technology. Traditional assets including fiat currencies, equities, government bonds, and real estate, are converging with crypto. This is driving unprecedented growth in the sector.

Growth forecasts in RWAs align with other reports, such as Bank of America's. The report highlights the transformative potential of tokenisation in improving efficiency, reducing costs, and optimising supply chains. The Boston Consulting Group also suggests significant market growth, estimating it could reach $16 trillion by 2030.

This emphasizes the pressing need for regulatory frameworks to adjust and evolve in response to the rapidly expanding market for tokenized real-world assets (RWA). The goal is to safeguard the interests of investors and the overall stability of the financial system.

Different countries have a diverse approach to regulations. Certain nations, including El Salvador, Estonia, Malta and Switzerland have strategically positioned themselves as cryptocurrency hubs, cultivating a supportive environment to attract blockchain and crypto-related enterprises. On the other hand, the European Union (EU), Latin America (LatAm), Asia and the Middle East are actively working towards formulating robust regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies. The objective is to strike a delicate balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding investor interests. Recognising the potential benefits of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, these regions are implementing regulations to mitigate risks, particularly in Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements.

A notable milestone in crypto asset legislation is the EU's Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) Regulation adopted by the European Parliament on April 20, 2023. This legislation establishes a comprehensive regulatory approach to crypto assets across all 27 EU member states, facilitating seamless business transactions between countries without additional paperwork. MiCA focuses particularly on stablecoins referred to as "e-money tokens" (EMTs). It mandates stringent adherence to robust requirements, stipulating that stablecoins should be strictly backed at a 1:1 ratio by fiat reserves and possess a secure governance structure.