Australia’s ASIC cracks down on crypto platforms avoiding licensing rules
As global crypto adoption moves away from hype and toward real institutional use, Australia’s main financial regulator is stepping in.
In its Key Issues Outlook 2026, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) warned that gaps in digital asset and fintech regulation pose a serious risk to financial stability.
For years, parts of the crypto and fintech industry have operated in loosely regulated areas. However, ASIC’s latest outlook makes it clear that this phase is ending.
ASIC filtering crypto’s grey area
Notably, ASIC is closely monitoring companies using AI and digital payments to avoid standard licensing rules. Specifically, unlicensed AI-powered advice tools and crypto platforms.
The regulator…
