MAS Finalises Stablecoin Regulatory Framework
Singapore, 15 August 2023... The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) today announced the features of a new regulatory framework that seeks to ensure a high degree of value stability for stablecoins regulated in Singapore. The regulatory framework takes into account feedback received, following an October 2022 public consultation.
2 Stablecoins are digital payment tokens designed to maintain a constant value against one or more specified fiat currencies. When well-regulated to preserve such value stability, stablecoins can serve as a trusted medium of exchange to support innovation, including the “on-chain” purchase and sale of digital assets.
3 MAS’ stablecoin regulatory framework will apply to single-currency stablecoins (SCS) pegged to the Singapore Dollar or any G10 currency, that are issued in Singapore. Issuers of such SCS will have to fulfil key requirements relating to:
- Value stability: SCS reserve assets will be subject to requirements relating to their composition, valuation, custody and audit, to give a high degree of assurance of value stability.
- Capital: Issuers must maintain minimum base capital and liquid assets to reduce the risk of insolvency and enable an orderly wind-down of business if necessary.
- Redemption at Par: Issuers must return the par value of SCS to holders within five business days from a redemption request.
- Disclosure: Issuers must provide appropriate disclosures to users, including information on the SCS’ value stabilising mechanism, rights of SCS holders, as well as the audit results of reserve assets.
4 Only stablecoin issuers that fulfil all requirements under the framework can apply to MAS for their stablecoins to be recognised and labelled as “MAS-regulated stablecoins”. This label will enable users to readily distinguish MAS-regulated stablecoins from other digital payment tokens, including “stablecoins” which are not subject to MAS’ stablecoin regulatory framework. Any person that misrepresents a token as an “MAS-regulated stablecoin”, may be subject to penalties
5 Ms Ho Hern Shin, Deputy Managing Director (Financial Supervision), MAS, said, “MAS’ stablecoin regulatory framework aims to facilitate the use of stablecoins as a credible digital medium of exchange, and as a bridge between the fiat and digital asset ecosystems. We encourage SCS issuers who would like their stablecoins recognised as “MAS regulated stablecoins” to make early preparations for compliance.”
6 For further details on the finalised stablecoin regulatory framework as well as the response to the public consultation, please refer to MAS website .
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