GSR, a leading crypto market maker and liquidity provider, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the Major Payment Institution license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This recognition marks the first time Singapore has granted such a license to a crypto market maker, highlighting GSR’s compliance and operational standards in the burgeoning crypto industry.
Digital Payment Token Service License
With this license, GSR is now authorized to engage in the buying and selling of “digital payment tokens,” the term used by the Singaporean government for cryptocurrencies. This is the same category of license that is typically required for crypto exchanges operating within the city-state, underscoring the regulatory alignment between market makers and exchange platforms.
In-Principal Approval and Recent Appointments
GSR initially received in-principal approval from MAS in September, setting the stage for this formal licensing. The company has also strengthened its leadership team by appointing Andreas Koukorinis, a former JP Morgan executive, as its head of trading, positioning GSR for continued growth and innovation in the crypto market making space.
Expanding Regulatory Framework in Singapore
Singapore’s decision to license GSR reflects the city-state’s broader efforts to refine and expand its regulatory framework for digital assets. Recent regulatory updates have extended licensing requirements to include custodial services and cross-border money transfers, indicating a comprehensive approach to overseeing the crypto ecosystem.
This development not only reinforces Singapore’s commitment to fostering a safe and regulated environment for digital asset activities but also sets a precedent for other market makers and liquidity providers in the crypto industry. As regulatory landscapes evolve globally, GSR’s licensing achievement in Singapore may serve as a model for similar entities seeking to operate within legal and regulatory guidelines.
