Dubai Tightens Grip On Crypto, Issues Cease And Desist Orders To 7 VASP Operators

The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai has moved decisively, slapping cease-and-desist orders on seven VASPs. This is all a part of VARA’s continued attempts to make sure everyone follows its rules, especially when it comes to crypto marketing and licensing. The fines imposed can reach up to AED 100,000 (around $27,000), underscoring the gravity of these infractions.

Founded in 2022, VARA seeks to establish Dubai as a worldwide center for virtual assets while safeguarding investor interests. The regulator supervises all operations concerning virtual assets, encompassing trading, management, and marketing.

According to VARA, the recent cease and desist orders are intended for organizations in Dubai to avoid illegal activities and be generally complaint to existing regulatory rules. Such encompasses strict regulation on how virtual assets must be marketed, free from false claims and transparent.

The Marketing Regulation clearly specifies the requirements to be fulfilled regarding virtual asset promotion. This includes not only companies licensed in Dubai, but overseas entities also promoting their services in the Emirate.

This means that regardless of the company’s location, all marketing initiatives targeted at Dubai residents must abide by VARA’s rules. This extensive jurisdiction demonstrates VARA’s dedication to upholding investor safety.

The seven VASPs that were issued cease and desist orders violated these marketing regulations. The offenses encompassed deceptive advertising techniques and the omission of requisite licenses prior to conducting promotional activities. VARA has unequivocally shown its intolerance for such violations and is ready to enforce significant fines and further sanctions for non-compliance.

Apart from fines, VARA has authority to revoke licenses and stop marketing activities for a maximum six-month term. This rigorous strategy aims to deter more infractions and penalize present offenders. With these guidelines, VARA aims to provide a more transparent and reliable virtual asset transaction environment in Dubai.

VARA’s efforts indicate a new phase in the regulation of virtual assets in Dubai. As the market expands, the demand for comprehensive regulatory frameworks that safeguard consumers and promote innovation also increases. The authority’s aggressive approach is anticipated to draw more legitimate enterprises seeking to function inside a regulated framework.

Industry experts assert that VARA’s continuous enforcement initiatives will position Dubai as a secure destination for virtual asset investments. By verifying adherence to marketing standards, VARA is safeguarding customers while simultaneously bolstering the desert metropolis’ position as a premier hub for digital finance.

Featured image from Pexels, chart from TradingView