The US Federal Reserve has issued guidelines clarifying the process for banks to transact stablecoins.
The United States Federal Reserve has issued new guidance clarifying the process for banks to transact stablecoins. This measure is a significant step toward the regulation and acceptance of cryptocurrencies in the traditional financial system.
For some time now, the Fed has been stepping up scrutiny of lenders’ involvement in digital assets, the latest move by US regulators to limit banks’ involvement in crypto.
The Fed said on Tuesday that it had established a program to strengthen oversight of activities related to digital assets and Blockchain technology by the lenders it oversees. Over the past year, the central bank and other regulators have repeatedly warned lenders to beware of the risks associated with this asset class.
The program will also focus on banks’ partnerships with non-lenders, such as fintech companies, to serve clients. “The goal of the novel activity supervision program is to foster the benefits of financial innovation while recognizing and appropriately addressing risks to ensure the safety and soundness of the banking system,” the Fed said in a statement.
The Fed also said Tuesday that state-owned banks must get central bank approval before issuing, holding, or transacting in stablecoins to facilitate payments. The move could affect the plans of lenders based in states that are seen as more crypto-friendly but remain overseen by the central bank.
Under the new guidelines, state-owned banks supervised by the Fed would have to demonstrate that they have adequate safeguards in place to mitigate risks, including liquidity, cybersecurity, and illicit financing risks.
They would also need to demonstrate that they can continuously monitor these aspects. Lenders would have to notify the Federal Reserve before undertaking certain stablecoin activities and wait until they have received “a written notice of supervisory no objection” before proceeding.
Orientation Details
The guidance issued by the Federal Reserve establishes the procedures and requirements that banks must follow to transact with stablecoins. This includes the need to carry out a proper risk assessment and comply with existing regulations.
Risk Assessment: Banks must carry out a thorough assessment of the risks associated with stablecoin transactions. This includes analysis of volatility, liquidity, and legal and regulatory risks.
Regulatory Compliance: The guidance also emphasizes the need to comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including anti-money laundering laws and consumer protection regulations.
Impact on the Cryptocurrency Industry
The Federal Reserve’s clarification on stablecoin transactions could have a significant impact on the cryptocurrency industry. It could open up new opportunities for the integration of cryptocurrencies into the traditional financial system and increase trust in stablecoins.
Opportunities for Banks: The guidance could allow banks to explore new opportunities in the cryptocurrency space, offering stablecoin-related services and participating in the emerging market.
Trust in Stablecoins: By providing a clear structure for stablecoin transactions, the Federal Reserve could increase trust in these cryptocurrencies, which could lead to greater adoption and use.
All in all, the Federal Reserve’s new guidance on stablecoin transactions is an important step toward regulating and accepting cryptocurrencies in the US financial system. By providing clarity and structure, this move could have a positive impact on the cryptocurrency industry and open up new opportunities for banks and other players in the financial market.
By Audy Castaneda
