Australia Grants New Crypto Exemptions to Ease Licensing Pressure on Intermediaries

Highlights:

• ASIC sets new rules that cut licence pressure and support wider stablecoin use across the digital asset market.
• Industry leaders say clear rules will help stablecoin services grow and support real use cases in payments.
• Crypto exemptions will guide the market toward stronger adoption as Australia prepares a full digital asset framework.

Australia’s securities regulator has confirmed new measures that aim to support stablecoin activity across the country. ASIC said the rules will make it easier for businesses to distribute eligible stablecoins and wrapped tokens. The regulator said the plan will help growth in the digital assets and payment sectors. It also said the changes will help new and established firms manage costs and compliance.

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Australian regulator eases rules for stablecoins and wrapped tokens pic.twitter.com/qHIvNt1wIo

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ASIC granted class relief for intermediaries that handle the secondary distribution of certain stablecoins and wrapped tokens. The relief removes the need for separate AFS licences when firms operate in these markets. ASIC also allowed the use of omnibus accounts when intermediaries follow clear record-keeping rules. The decision gives firms a path to operate with fewer hurdles. It also sets new expectations for custody and reporting.

The regulator explained that speed and cost advantages make omnibus accounts widespread in the industry. The regulator observed that a few companies rely on these designs to lessen cybersecurity and operational risks. ASIC reported that the changes are meant to enable safe innovation and provide space to realize future growth. It also noted that the shift is in line with more general work on digital asset reforms.

Industry Leaders Welcome Updated Framework as Stablecoin Use Expands

The leaders of the industry remarked on the advantage of the clear way ahead. According to Macropod CEO Drew Bradford, the relief provides stablecoin issuers with greater confidence to build. He explained that the new structure provides firms with an adaptable system to assist reserve and asset regulations. He also stated that it eliminates the friction that slowed down the previous activity. Bradford included that clarity assists firms in scaling real-world use cases in fields like payments and treasury work.

The progress was welcomed by TRM Labs policy head Angela Ang. She added that the industry anticipates additional action next year. She noted that increased clarity can stimulate more engagement and promote new products. Market data indicates that market interest is increasing. The aggregate value of stablecoins has reached more than $300 billion. It has increased by over 48% this year, and demand is on the increase in key markets.

The new rules build on ASIC’s earlier guidance. The agency explained how existing laws apply to digital assets. It also adopted a no-action position until June next year for firms seeking licences. That guidance confirmed that stablecoins, tokenized assets, and wrapped tokens fall under financial product rules. This means providers must meet licence and custody requirements if they handle these assets.

ASIC consulted on the proposed measures in October. Industry groups supported omnibus account structures due to the efficiency gains they offered. Some groups called for more specifications on record-keeping. ASIC maintained the rules generally to prevent restrictions on innovation. It also confirmed strict reserve rules for eligible stablecoins and wrapped tokens. Issuers must publish quarterly updates and audited annual reports.

Crypto Exemptions Signal More Market Growth as Broader Regulations Advance

ASIC said the framework may expand as more issuers secure AFS licences. It expects more activity as the market matures. The relief measures remain in place until January 2029. This gives firms time to adjust before Treasury completes a wider digital asset framework. A recent report from Zodia Custody said stablecoins now play a growing role in Australia’s financial system. It noted rising demand for faster and more open payment tools. The regulator said the latest step of crypto exemption aims to prepare the market for that shift.

Australia’s economy is approaching an inflection point where #stablecoins and digital assets will rapidly play a larger role, according to a new report from digital asset custody firm @ZodiaCustody. 🇦🇺

Read the full story 👉 https://t.co/Oje5LimrFL pic.twitter.com/B7CkC9jCM6

— Crypto News 🇦🇺 (@cryptonews_aus) December 11, 2025