China Associations Warn Against Virtual Currency and Asset Tokenization Risks

According to a notice from the China Futures Association, six major Chinese industry associations, including the China Internet Finance Association and the China Banking Association, have jointly issued a risk warning regarding virtual currencies and real-world asset tokenization. This warning aims to educate the public about the inherent nature of these activities and protect investors.

Fundamental Attributes of Virtual Currencies and Asset Tokens

The associations emphasize that virtual currencies are not legal tender issued by a monetary authority and do not have the same legal status as legal tender. Consequently, they are not authorized for circulation or use as currency within China. Furthermore, stablecoins pose significant challenges in terms of customer identification and anti-money laundering requirements, making them susceptible to money laundering, fundraising fraud, and illegal cross-border transfers.

Real-world asset tokenization, which involves issuing tokens to represent ownership of real-world assets, carries multiple risks, including the risk of fake assets, operational failure risk, and speculative hype. It's important to note that Chinese financial authorities have not approved any real-world asset tokenization activities.

Illegal Activities and Consequences

Any activities involving the exchange of legal tender for virtual currencies, the issuance of real-world asset tokens, and fundraising within China are deemed illegal financial activities. These illegal activities may include illegally selling token tickets, illegally raising funds, publicly issuing securities without authorization, and illegally operating a futures business.

Overseas virtual currency and asset token service providers are prohibited from directly or indirectly providing services to residents in China. Local employees of these providers, as well as domestic institutions and individuals who knowingly provide services to them, will be held legally responsible.

Call for Public Vigilance

The associations urge the public to exercise extreme caution regarding all forms of virtual currency and asset token activities. They emphasize the importance of staying informed about the risks associated with these activities and avoiding participation in them.


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