Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) is preparing to introduce new regulations requiring cryptocurrency businesses to disclose the identities of major token holders, a move aimed at enhancing transparency and protecting investors in the city’s growing digital asset market.
In an interview with The Standard, VARA’s chief, Matthew White, emphasized that the forthcoming rules will apply to licensed crypto issuers and service providers, compelling them to reveal large stakeholders—often called “whales.” The primary focus will be cases where most of a token’s supply is concentrated among a few individuals or institutions, such as venture capital firms.
White explained that the initiative is designed to give investors a clearer picture of the assets they purchase. Many cryptocurrencies are heavily controlled by early investors or project creators, which can significantly influence market dynamics. VARA aims to mitigate market manipulation and undisclosed control risks by making large holdings more transparent.
The regulator aims to maintain individuals’ anonymity while enforcing disclosure requirements for blockchain transactions, which utilize pseudonymous wallet addresses. Blockchain’s transparent ledger allows for tracking extensive holdings. The firm also ensures that investors receive clear risk information related to virtual assets. Although the verification process details are not fully defined, new rules are expected to be implemented in the first quarter of the year, with some already in progress.
VARA has recently issued a public warning regarding meme coin promotions, highlighting the risks associated with these tokens, including price manipulation, liquidity issues, and deceptive marketing. The agency emphasizes that many meme coins lack intrinsic value and are primarily influenced by speculative trends on social media rather than substantial financial or technological advancements.
Further reinforcing its commitment to investor protection, VARA also tightened regulations for companies marketing cryptocurrency investments. The regulator introduced new rules requiring firms to include a disclaimer in their promotional materials.
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