The European regulatory body has raised significant concerns regarding Malta’s current crypto licensing framework, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms. The report highlights that the existing system lacks rigorous due diligence procedures, which could potentially expose the market to heightened risks of fraud and money laundering. Key criticisms include inadequate transparency in application approvals and inconsistent enforcement of compliance standards across licensed entities.

In response, the regulator called for immediate enhancements aimed at strengthening supervisory mechanisms. Among the suggested improvements are:

  • Standardisation of licensing criteria to ensure uniform evaluation of all crypto firms.
  • Enhanced background checks on applicants to mitigate illicit activities.
  • Periodic audits and stricter penalties for non-compliance.
Issue Current Status Recommended…