How will crypto-assets be traded in Albania? - Platforms under scrutiny, new law prohibits operations without authorization from AFSA and BoA
Albania is taking a decisive step towards regulating the crypto-asset market, through a new draft law that defines for the first time how cryptocurrency services, platforms and issuers will operate in the country.
One of the main pillars of the draft law is the mandatory licensing of all companies offering crypto services. Only entities authorized by the Financial Supervisory Authority (AMF) or the Bank of Albania will be entitled to operate as trading platforms, conduct exchanges, provide crypto custody services, execute orders or manage portfolios. This is expected to create a safer environment for users, avoiding illegal or fraudulent practices.
For the first time, stablecoins, i.e. tokens that hold a stable value linked to a currency or asset, are also regulated. Their issuers must have real reserves and guarantee immediate repayment of value to users. For example, if a stablecoin linked to the euro is created, the company must keep in the bank the same amount of euros as the tokens it has put into circulation. The law prohibits the granting of interest on these instruments, clearly distinguishing them from savings products.
The draft law also places a strong emphasis on consumer protection. Any new token offered to the public must have a detailed, clear and verifiable disclosure document explaining the risks, functionality and technology used. Misleading advertising and inaccurate information are prohibited, while entities are legally liable for any errors.
Another important element is market integrity. The law prohibits price manipulation, the use of inside information, and the placing of false orders, requiring platforms to have systems in place to detect and report any abuse. For example, a company or individual who pushes up the price of a token through false purchases, or a platform employee who uses inside information to gain an advantage, will face severe administrative measures.
In the area of digital security, companies should have clear policies for data protection, private key custody, and technological risk management. Customer assets should be kept separate from company assets to ensure protection in the event of bankruptcy.
The draft law directly links the crypto sector to anti-money laundering rules, requiring full customer identification and reporting of suspicious transactions. This means, among other things, that it is no longer possible to open anonymous accounts for cryptocurrency trading on Albanian platforms.
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