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What we think
We distil and translate the latest developments in public policy, regulation and governance


SwanFS: Key Considerations for Crypto Asset Service Providers, arising from recent developments
I. Executive Summary This week’s developments signal an evolution in the regulatory environment, shifting from theoretical risk to tangible enforcement actions and notable strategic divergence among key jurisdictions. For Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs), the global landscape now presents three primary areas of focus that merit careful consideration for our operational, product, and legal strategies. Enforcement and AML/CTF Scrutiny. The €21.46 million fine imposed by
James Ross
Nov 915 min read


SwanFS 2026 Risk and Compliance Framework for EU Crypto-Asset Service Providers: Navigating the Supervisory Trinity of MiCA, DORA, and AMLA
Executive Summary 2026 marks a pivotal year for EU Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs), marking the culmination of a multi-year effort to establish comprehensive regulation for digital assets. The transitional “grandfathering” period under MiCA, as per Article 143(3), ends on July 1, 2026, removing legacy buffers and implementing a uniform licensing and conduct system across the Union. Meanwhile, the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), which has been effective since
James Ross
Oct 3127 min read


SwanFS Digital Markets and Asset Risk Register 2025: A Technical Analysis of the Global Regulatory Implementation Wave
Executive Summary 2025 marks a pivotal shift for digital assets and financial markets, moving from regulatory development to strict...
James Ross
Oct 223 min read


Global Regulatory Developments Report: August 2025
Executive Summary August 2025 witnessed a continuation of key regulatory and supervisory initiatives across major financial...
James Ross
Aug 298 min read


UK Digital Asset Regulation: the Evolving Framework
Executive Summary The United Kingdom is executing a phased and comprehensive strategy to integrate digital assets into its established...
James Ross
Aug 114 min read


Global Digital Asset Regulatory Developments: June 2025 Report
Executive Summary June 2025 marked a period of significant progress in establishing detailed regulatory frameworks for digital assets...
James Ross
Jun 294 min read


Global Digital Markets Regulation Intensifies in May with Focus on Stablecoins, Market Structure, and CBDCs
Global efforts to establish clear regulatory frameworks for digital assets gained significant momentum in May, with a concentrated focus...
James Ross
Jun 24 min read


Global Regulatory Developments - March 2025
March 2025 witnessed significant regulatory advancements in the global financial sector, particularly concerning digital finance. Key...
James Ross
Apr 27 min read


Global Regulatory Developments in Digital Assets: December 2024Executive Summary: Global Regulatory Developments in Digital Assets - December 2024
There was significant regulatory activity in December 2024. Globally, on establishing comprehensive frameworks for digital assets,...
James Ross
Jan 14 min read


Global Digital Assets Regulatory Developments - November 2024: Europe in Focus
Executive Summary: Global Digital Asset Regulatory Developments - November 2024 November 2024 witnessed significant regulatory progress...
James Ross
Dec 3, 20245 min read


FCA Crypto Roadmap
The FCA Crypto Roadmap outlines the planned policy publications and timelines for regulating crypto assets in the UK. It sets out a...
James Ross
Nov 26, 20241 min read


Navigating the Shifting Sands: A Deep Dive into the EBA's 2025 Work Program and its Implications for Financial Institutions
The European Banking Authority (EBA) has released its work program for 2025, signalling a significant shift in the regulatory landscape...
James Ross
Oct 7, 20243 min read


Will MiCA be the MiFID I of Digital Markets and Assets?
MiFID, implemented in 2007, revolutionised European capital markets by increasing competition, transparency, and investor protection....
James Ross
Oct 3, 20242 min read


2024: A Year of Regulatory Reckoning in Digital Markets
The digital landscape underwent significant changes in 2024 as regulators worldwide tightened their control over the industry. Every...
James Ross
Sep 29, 20245 min read


The SEC vs. Ripple: A Partial Victory and Regulatory Lessons for Crypto Firms
The cryptocurrency industry has closely watched the SEC's lawsuit against Ripple Labs. The recent ruling marks a pivotal moment with...
James Ross
Aug 8, 20242 min read


Key International Reports on Digital Markets and Assets Regulation (July 2024)
July 2024 marked a significant month for international reports addressing the evolving landscape of digital markets and assets. These...
James Ross
Aug 6, 20243 min read


The Future of Finance: Key Regulatory Developments in July 2024
The financial landscape is rapidly transforming, driven by technological advancements and evolving market dynamics. In July 2024, several...
James Ross
Aug 1, 20243 min read


MiCA Q&A Updates: Key Points & Firm Implications
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has released a series of Q&A updates regarding the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA)...
James Ross
Jul 30, 20242 min read


Hong Kong's Stablecoin Regulations: A New Era for Digital Assets
Hong Kong is forging ahead in regulating stablecoins, establishing a comprehensive framework to foster innovation while ensuring investor...
James Ross
Jul 30, 20242 min read


Landmark FCA Fine for Coinbase Subsidiary Over Financial Crime Control Breaches
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has imposed a significant £3.5 million fine on CB Payments Ltd (CBPL), a subsidiary of...
James Ross
Jul 26, 20242 min read
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The posts listed on the 'What we think' webpages are our interpretation of key developments we have been reading about. They should not be considered legal, regulatory or other advice. Contact us if you want to understand the impact of public policy, regulation and governance changes for you.
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