Australia’s Financial Regulator Expands Oversight of Crypto Assets

ASIC has significantly updated its regulatory guidance, broadening the application of financial-services laws to encompass digital assets like stablecoins, staking services, and tokenized products. The revised Info Sheet 225 introduces stricter custodial standards and 18 new classification examples, reinforcing that Australian jurisdiction extends to offshore and decentralized platforms serving domestic users.

The move aligns with impending legislation from Australia’s Treasury, which aims to formalize oversight of digital-asset platforms and payments. ASIC’s update follows earlier concessions for licensed stablecoin distributors, signaling a phased approach to regulation as the crypto ecosystem matures.

Terminology shifts from "crypto-assets" to "digital assets" reflect a deliberate expansion of scope, capturing VIRTUAL tokens and coin-based products without exception. While not creating new laws, the guidance provides clarity for businesses navigating evolving compliance requirements ahead of sweeping reforms.