Understanding regulatory trends: digital assets & anti-money laundering

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the global anti-money laundering regulation of digital assets and cryptocurrencies.

Design/methodology/approach

This article provides an analysis of macro trends in digital asset money laundering regulation and explores the regulatory frameworks in some of the leading international crypto markets.

Findings

As the popularity and public adoption of digital assets have grown, global regulators have turned their attention to the risks of anti-money laundering. Monitoring the evolving international regulatory landscape is essential for organizations looking to successfully take advantage of digital asset-related investment opportunities.

Practical implications

Market participants should understand all applicable laws and procedures before they decide to enter the digital asset market. These considerations can become even more complex as businesses interact with multiple international regulators.

Originality/value

This article is designed to help investors understand the global anti-money laundering regulatory landscape regarding digital assets, particularly for those institutions interested in diversifying with crypto-related investment opportunities.

Citation

Kirkpatrick, K., Stephens, A., Gerber, J., Nettesheim, M. and Bellm, S. (2021), "Understanding regulatory trends: digital assets & anti-money laundering", Journal of Investment Compliance, Vol. 22 No. 4, pp. 345-353. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOIC-07-2021-0033