G20 Adopts Crypto Regulatory Roadmap
The Group of Twenty (G20) has unanimously adopted the “G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Communique” during its recent meeting in Marrakesh, Morocco. This intergovernmental forum, which includes 19 sovereign countries, the European Union, and the African Union, agreed to implement the crypto regulatory roadmap proposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Financial Stability Board (FSB) in their joint report titled “IMF-FSB Synthesis Paper: Policies for Crypto-Assets.”
G20’s Call for Swift Implementation
The G20 members are calling for swift and coordinated implementation of the G20 Roadmap, which includes policy frameworks, outreach beyond G20 jurisdictions, global coordination and cooperation, information sharing, and addressing data gaps. The IMF-FSB paper emphasizes comprehensive oversight of crypto instead of a complete ban. It recommends cross-border cooperation and information sharing between regulators, governance and risk management frameworks for crypto companies, and access to relevant data provided by companies to authorities.
Reviewing Implementation Status
The first review of the proposed measures’ implementation status is set to take place by the end of 2025. In addition to this roadmap, the IMF has published a working paper titled “Assessing Macrofinancial Risks from Crypto Assets,” suggesting a crypto risk assessment matrix for countries to identify indicators and triggers of potential risks in the sector.
Global Framework on Crypto
Regulators worldwide have been calling for a global framework on crypto. The governor of Portugal’s central bank emphasized international cooperation to establish a robust framework and prevent regulatory arbitrage. The German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority also highlighted inconsistencies existing on a global scale.
Hot Take: G20 Embraces Crypto Regulation for Global Cooperation
The G20’s unanimous adoption of the crypto regulatory roadmap proposed by the IMF and FSB demonstrates a willingness to embrace comprehensive oversight rather than outright banning cryptocurrencies. The call for swift implementation and global cooperation reflects the need for coordinated efforts in addressing data gaps, establishing governance frameworks, and managing risks associated with crypto-assets. The G20’s proactive approach sets a positive tone for the development of a global regulatory framework that promotes innovation while ensuring consumer protection and financial stability in the crypto industry.