Are you an ADGM CSP? Change is in the air…

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (“ADGM”) has issued Consultation Paper 07 in order to gather feedback on its proposals to shake up the Company Service Provider (“CSP”) regime. But what are the changes and what might they mean for your company?

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DFSA Helping Firms to Counter Cyber Threats

According to the latest Cyber Thematic Review Report published by the DFSA, the combined efforts of the regulator and industry are beginning to have an impact.  Since carrying out its initial review in 2020, the DFSA has been working hard to raise cybersecurity awareness in the DIFC by encouraging information exchange about cyber threats and assisting firms with their ongoing efforts to build effective cyber resilience.  However, more work is needed in some key areas to ensure this good work continues to gather momentum.

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Reduced regulatory burden for smaller firms in the DIFC

On 7 November 2022, the DFSA issued Consultation Paper 145 which sets out proposals on reducing the prudential burden for select lower risk firms by:

1.      Defining lower risk firms and carving out a new prudential regime
2.      Removing EBCM but increasing base capital
3.      Adjusting the credit floor for liquid assets
4.      Liquid assets to match base capital
5.      No IRAP

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Revised DFSA reporting requirements for Insurance Firms

On 7 November 2022, the DFSA issued a Consultation Paper (CP146) setting out proposed changes which will amend the Prudential reporting requirements for authorised Insurance Firms only (no impact on brokers or MGAs). The DFSA has invited comments on its proposals by 7 December 2022.
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Changes are coming for Buy Now Pay Later firms operating in the DIFC

On 7 November 2022, the DFSA issued Consultation Paper 146 setting out proposed changes affecting the presently unregulated Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) sector. The DFSA has invited comments on its proposals, the short window for which will close on 7 December 2022. 
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DFSA Crypto Rules: 3 points to walk you through the regulatory minefield.

The DFSA has recognised the growth in interest in innovative financial products and has introduced a comprehensive regime aiming to strike a balance between encouraging innovation and protecting consumers. The new regime came into force on 1 November and here we set out the key points for interested parties to be mindful of when considering offering financial services using Crypto Tokens.
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How regulatory change impacts corporate relations and brings new compliance challenges.

Regulations governing private sector operations are constantly evolving as new ways of doing business emerge and working environments transform daily. Therefore, business leaders and compliance teams must stay on top of local regulations in order to deliver continuous compliance. We understand this is easier said than done.

The past couple of years have brought with them a transformation in business behaviors, relationships, and practices, and, as a result, a shift in the regulatory landscape. Businesses located in both the DIFC and the ADGM have had to adapt to new ways of working and improved regulations which have brought with them more compliance requirements for firms to consider. Continue reading “How regulatory change impacts corporate relations and brings new compliance challenges.”