EddieJayonCrypto
18 Oct 25
France intensifies crypto oversight under EU MiCA, while Ghana advances first crypto laws, signaling a pivotal shift in global regulatory strategies.
**France and Ghana Take Steps to Regulate Crypto Assets Amid EU and Global Trends** As the global cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, France and Ghana are emerging as pivotal players in shaping regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with financial stability. Their efforts reflect a growing consensus among regulators that structured oversight is essential to mitigate risks while fostering trust in digital assets. **France Ramps Up Oversight Under EU’s MiCA Framework** France is intensifying its regulatory scrutiny of the cryptocurrency sector, leveraging the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) to assert greater control. The French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) has launched confidential anti-money laundering (AML) checks on major exchanges, including Binance, as part of a broader push to strengthen compliance. These inspections, which began in 2023, have prompted Binance to enhance its risk management systems and internal controls. A Binance representative emphasized that such reviews are “a standard part of the supervision of regulated entities,” aimed at ensuring adherence to AML and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CFT) regulations. When deficiencies are identified, firms are typically given time to improve, often by expanding compliance teams or upgrading technological safeguards. The ACPR’s actions align with France’s broader strategy to position itself as a leader in EU crypto governance. The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) has even floated the possibility of blocking crypto firms that rely solely on licenses from other EU countries, citing concerns over regulatory loopholes. AMF chair Marie-Anne Barbat-Layani acknowledged the move could strain trust in the European single market but stressed it remains a “possibility we hold in reserve.” Meanwhile, Bank of France Governor François Villeroy de Galhau has urged the EU to grant the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) centralized oversight of the crypto sector. He warned that fragmented enforcement by national regulators could hinder effective supervision as the digital asset market expands across Europe. **Ghana Moves to Establish First Crypto Laws** In West Africa, Ghana is accelerating its efforts to regulate the cryptocurrency sector. The Bank of Ghana, led by Governor Johnson Asiama, is building the expertise and infrastructure needed to monitor digital assets as adoption surges. Over 3 million Ghanaians now use crypto, underscoring the urgency of creating a legal framework. A bill to introduce the country’s first crypto laws is expected to reach parliament by year-end. Asiama highlighted that Ghana is investing in the technical and human resources required to oversee digital assets responsibly. This initiative reflects a broader regional trend, as African nations increasingly recognize the need for regulation to protect consumers and prevent illicit activities. **Balancing Innovation and Stability** The moves by France and Ghana underscore a global shift toward proactive crypto regulation. While France focuses on tightening compliance under MiCA and reinforcing EU-wide standards, Ghana prioritizes establishing a foundation for secure digital asset adoption. Both nations emphasize that regulation is not a barrier to innovation but a necessary tool to ensure financial stability and public trust. As the crypto industry grows, the interplay between national initiatives and international frameworks like MiCA will shape the future of digital finance. With France and Ghana leading the charge, the world is witnessing a critical moment in the evolution of crypto governance.