What is the Singapore Payment Services Act 2019 and how does it impact crypto projects?

The Singapore Payment Services Act 2019 (PS Act) is a piece of legislation that regulates payment services in Singapore. The PS Act came into effect on January 28, 2020, and replaces the Payment Systems (Oversight) Act and the Money-Changing and Remittance Businesses Act.

The PS Act is designed to regulate a wide range of payment services, including digital payment token (DPT) services, which covers cryptocurrency-related activities. The PS Act requires DPT service providers to obtain a license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) before providing DPT services in Singapore.

The PS Act also imposes a number of obligations on DPT service providers, including requirements related to anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), consumer protection, and cybersecurity. DPT service providers must comply with these requirements to obtain and maintain their license.

The PS Act impacts crypto projects in several ways. First, it requires DPT service providers to obtain a license from MAS before providing DPT services in Singapore. This includes cryptocurrency exchanges, custodian wallet providers, and other businesses that provide DPT-related services.

Second, the PS Act imposes a number of obligations on DPT service providers, including AML/CFT requirements, consumer protection requirements, and cybersecurity requirements. These obligations can be complex and time-consuming to comply with, and failure to comply can result in regulatory enforcement action.

Third, the PS Act provides a regulatory framework for DPT-related activities in Singapore, which can provide clarity and certainty for crypto projects operating in the country. This can help to attract investment and promote innovation in the crypto space.

In conclusion, the Singapore Payment Services Act 2019 is a significant piece of legislation that regulates payment services, including DPT services, in Singapore. Crypto projects operating in Singapore must comply with the PS Act's requirements related to licensing, AML/CFT, consumer protection, and cybersecurity. At Ressos Legal, we can provide guidance and support to help crypto projects navigate the complex regulatory landscape in Singapore and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Ressos Legal has extensive experience in procuring advice on the Singapore Payment Services Act 2019, helping clients in the crypto industry to succeed. All legal services are provided by Singapore advocates and solicitors. Ressos Legal itself does not provide any legal services and nothing on this website should be construed to the contrary.