tl;dr
Binance is doubling down on the Asia-Pacific region with a hyper-local approach, battling fragmented regulations and targeting the next billion crypto users through compliance, education, and strategic partnerships.
Binance’s Bold Push Into APAC: Navigating Regulation, Localization, and the Next Billion Users
The cryptocurrency industry is inching closer to mainstream adoption, and Binance is doubling down on the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region—a hub that accounts for nearly 40% of global trading volume and drives 65–70% of digital asset adoption growth worldwide. At the helm of this strategy is SB Seker, Binance’s newly appointed Head of APAC, who brings a rare mix of legal expertise and fintech experience to the role. In an exclusive interview with *BeInCrypto*, Seker laid out the exchange’s vision for thriving in APAC’s complex regulatory landscape while preparing for the next wave of crypto users.
**A Hyper-Local Approach in a Fragmented Market**
APAC’s regulatory environment is anything but uniform. Unlike the European Union’s MiCA framework, the region lacks a cohesive regulatory blueprint, with each country prioritizing its own interests. “We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach,” Seker emphasized. “Every conversation with regulators, governments, or consumer bodies is distinct. We’re focused on hyper-localization.”
This strategy means Binance is investing heavily in understanding regional nuances. From Japan’s strict compliance standards to Indonesia’s evolving crypto policies, the exchange is tailoring its operations to meet local demands. Seker, a former litigator and central banking lawyer at Singapore’s Monetary Authority, stressed that long-term sustainability trumps short-term gains. “Our goal is to build infrastructure that brings the next billion users into crypto through security, compliance, privacy, and education,” he said.
**Korea and China: Two Pillars of APAC Strategy**
South Korea remains a critical market for Binance, but full integration through its Gopax partnership hinges on regulatory approvals and corporate actions. “We need a combination of regulatory clearances and shareholder approvals at Gopax to be fully deployed,” Seker noted. Despite the hurdles, Binance’s commitment to Korea remains unwavering, given the market’s dynamic nature.
China, where Binance was founded, presents a different challenge. The country’s strict crypto restrictions mean Binance must tread carefully. “We monitor China’s stance closely, as do other global players,” Seker said. “Governments in APAC often prioritize national interests over regional coordination, so we’re watching for opportunities as policies evolve.”
**Stablecoins and the Balance of Power**
The rise of USD-backed stablecoins has sparked concerns in emerging markets, where they risk undermining monetary sovereignty. Seker acknowledged the dilemma: “Countries must decide whether to issue local stablecoins with sufficient liquidity or allow limited access with controls.” He highlighted the delicate balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding national interests. “There’s no easy answer, but regulators need to protect consumers while enabling progress.”
**The Next Billion Users: Beyond the ‘OGs’**
Binance’s vision extends beyond early adopters. The “next billion users” will be average consumers seeking to integrate crypto into their financial lives. “Security, privacy, and compliance are non-negotiable,” Seker said. “But education is equally crucial. Users want to understand risks, benefits, and how to use crypto responsibly.” This shift requires a focus on user-friendly tools and transparent communication, a stark contrast to the technical jargon that once defined the space.
**CZ’s Role: A Shareholder, Not a Leader**
When asked about CEO Changpeng “CZ” Zhao’s return to the company, Seker clarified: “He remains a shareholder with rights, but due to legal matters, he’s distanced himself from operations. That’s likely to continue.”
**A Region on the Brink of Transformation**
As Binance bets big on APAC, the region’s regulatory fragmentation and cultural diversity demand agility. Seker’s emphasis on localization, compliance, and education signals a maturing approach—one that could define the future of crypto adoption. For investors and users alike, the question isn’t just *when* crypto goes mainstream, but *how* it will adapt to the unique needs of the world’s most dynamic market.
What do you think? How should regulators balance innovation with consumer protection in APAC’s evolving crypto landscape?