As DEXes process billions in volume, regulators worldwide are grappling with how to oversee truly decentralized protocols. This guide covers the current landscape, key enforcement actions, and what the future may hold.
Global Regulatory Approaches
United States
- SEC: Securities enforcement
- CFTC: Commodities oversight
- Status: Enforcement-led, unclear frameworks
European Union
- MiCA regulation providing clearer framework
- Rules-based approach emerging
Asia Pacific
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Singapore, Hong Kong: Proactive
- China: Restricted
Key Regulatory Considerations
- Securities Laws — Are governance tokens securities?
- Money Transmission — KYC/AML requirements
- Decentralization Defense — If truly decentralized, who is responsible?
Key Takeaways
- Regulatory uncertainty remains a major challenge
- US takes enforcement-first approach
- EU developing clearer frameworks (MiCA)
- Decentralization level affects regulatory treatment