FSCA Awards Licence to Luno, SA’s Largest Crypto Asset Service Provider

Number of first-time crypto buyers in SA soars There was an increase of over 43% in the number of first-time crypto buyers in South Africa on Luno in March 2024. At the same time, Bitcoin posted a new all-time high and other cryptos rallied to multi-year highs. Says De Wit, “Research indicates that investors are open to crypto investments if recommended by financial advisors. Many advisors have seen a lack of regulation as a barrier to entry. With FSCA licensing, the asset class should attract the attention of more sophisticated investors that are offered professional and responsible advice.” Africa is primed to lead the decentralised revolution Crypto asset class about to take off in South Africa as the sector becomes licensed and regulated

South Africa’s largest and oldest crypto asset service provider, Luno, has secured a licence from the Financial Services Conduct Authority (FSCA) to operate as a financial services provider. Luno is the first dedicated crypto asset service provider in South Africa to be awarded its financial services provider licence following the FSCA’s declaration of crypto assets as a financial product in terms of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, 2002 (FAIS).

Christo de Wit, Luno’s country manager for South Africa, says, “As a homegrown trailblazer with more than ten years of experience in the crypto market, Luno is thrilled to be the first licensed crypto asset service provider in the country. This is a positive step for both the cryptocurrency industry and South Africans. Compliance, safety and security for our customers have driven our growth since the beginning and will continue to be priorities as we expand our offering to introduce more features and products for financial institutions.”

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