North Carolina Bills Aim to Add Cryptocurrency to State’s Retirement System
North Carolina legislators have put forward 5% of state retirement funds to be invested in cryptocurrency assets.
Key Takeaways:
Strict Regulatory Framework – Unlike “light-touch” regulations in some jurisdictions, Vanuatu implements stringent compliance measures to govern cryptocurrency businesses.
Focus on Consumer Protection & AML Compliance – The laws prioritise anti-money laundering (AML) protocols and consumer protection, ensuring transparency and accountability in the crypto sector.
Boosting Vanuatu’s Appeal as a Crypto Hub – By establishing clear rules, Vanuatu aims to attract legitimate crypto businesses while discouraging bad actors, positioning itself as a regulated digital asset hub.
Vanuatu has officially passed its long-anticipated cryptocurrency regulations, establishing a comprehensive framework to clarify and oversee the nation’s digital asset sector.
Overview
On March 26 2025, the local parliament approved the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act, granting the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC) the authority to regulate licensing. Unlike the lenient approaches in other jurisdictions, Vanuatu’s new laws focus on strict compliance and robust security measures for crypto businesses operating within its borders.
The legislation, which has been under development for several years, is designed to address concerns related to anti-money laundering (AML), consumer protection, and financial stability. By implementing these laws, Vanuatu seeks to position itself as a responsible and well-regulated crypto hub while maintaining its appeal to investors and blockchain enterprises. Loretta Joseph consulted with the regulator on the laws and said, “God help any scammer that goes into Vanuatu because you’ll go to jail. The regulations are very stringent.”
A Shift Away From ‘Light Touch’ Regulations
The passage of these laws marks a clear departure from what some have referred to as ‘light touch’ regulatory approaches. Many offshore financial centres have historically been criticised for adopting lax policies that allow for unchecked activities in the crypto space. However, Vanuatu is taking a firm stance, requiring strict adherence to licensing procedures, transaction monitoring, and identity verification measures.
Crypto firms operating in Vanuatu must register with regulatory authorities and undergo rigorous scrutiny to ensure compliance with international financial laws. These measures align the country with global efforts to combat illicit financial activities and ensure transparency in the digital asset market. The move is expected to deter bad actors while fostering an environment conducive to legitimate blockchain innovations.
Impact on Crypto Businesses and Investors
The new laws introduce both opportunities and challenges for businesses and investors in the crypto sector. Companies seeking to establish operations in Vanuatu must now navigate a more structured regulatory framework, ensuring their business models align with legal requirements.
While this might impose additional compliance costs, it also enhances investor confidence by offering a safer and more predictable business environment. Additionally, the new regulations could attract institutional investors who have hesitated to engage in markets with uncertain legal structures. By implementing clear guidelines, Vanuatu may position itself as a preferred jurisdiction for businesses looking for regulatory certainty without the risks associated with unregulated or poorly regulated regions.
Overall, Vanuatu’s decision to enact stringent crypto regulations demonstrates its commitment to balancing innovation with security. As global crypto regulations evolve, the country’s proactive stance may set a precedent for other small nations looking to harness the benefits of digital assets while ensuring financial integrity.