- Qatar launches comprehensive Digital Assets Framework to boost financial sector competitiveness.
- Framework addresses regulatory concerns, sets standards for tokenization, and smart contracts.
The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has officially launched its QFC Digital Assets Framework 2024, a regulatory regime designed to bolster the digital asset sector within the QFC. Developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders, including exchanges, custodians, and other market participants, the framework supports Qatar’s digital transformation goals by providing guidelines for digital asset activities, such as issuance, trading, and custody.
The framework addresses key regulatory concerns, including anti-money laundering, counter-financing of terrorism, and market conduct, while incorporating robust risk management measures to protect investors and maintain market integrity. Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, CEO of QFC, stated that the framework would establish a blueprint for the development and operation of digital assets, enhancing market trust and confidence. He emphasized that the regulatory clarity would attract both domestic and international players, boosting Qatar’s financial services sector.
The QFC’s new framework aligns with Qatar’s broader digital transformation objectives, as outlined in the Third National Development Strategy and the Third Financial Sector Strategy. The Qatar Financial Centre Regulatory Authority (QFCRA) will oversee the licensing. And supervision of digital asset service providers under this framework.
Behind The Framework
The framework also sets stringent standards for asset tokenization and legally recognizes smart contracts, providing a secure and transparent digital asset ecosystem that adheres to international standards. An advisory group of 37 organizations from financial, technology, and legal sectors contributed to the development of the framework, reflecting extensive industry collaboration.
The QFC Digital Assets Lab, launched in October 2023, played a pivotal role in shaping the framework, with over 20 startups and fintech companies participating in the initiative to develop, test, and commercialize digital asset-related products and services.
With the framework now in place, companies can apply for token service provider licenses, marking a significant milestone in Qatar’s financial sector modernization efforts.
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