Coindesk Logo

Crypto Exchanges Join Winklevoss Backed Self-Regulatory Group

Crypto Exchanges Join Winklevoss Backed Self-Regulatory Group

Crypto Exchanges Join Winklevoss Backed Self-Regulatory Group

Bitstamp, bitFlyer, Bittrex and Gemini launched a self-regulatory organization (SRO) for crypto exchanges on Monday.

Bitstamp, bitFlyer, Bittrex and Gemini launched a self-regulatory organization (SRO) for crypto exchanges on Monday.

Bitstamp, bitFlyer, Bittrex and Gemini launched a self-regulatory organization (SRO) for crypto exchanges on Monday.

AccessTimeIconAug 20, 2018, 8:30 PM
Updated Aug 18, 2021, 9:39 PM

Presented By Icon

Election 2024 coverage presented by

Stand with crypto

A group of cryptocurrency exchanges has joined up with Gemini founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss to launch a new industry-focused self-regulatory organization (SRO).

, the Virtual Commodity Association aims to "foster financially sound, responsible and innovative virtual commodity markets" by developing industry standards and encouraging cryptocurrency exchanges to prevent market manipulation and other fraudulent actions.

On Monday, the proposal took its next step, with Gemini launching a working group to begin developing these standards.

As explained by an introductory post on the VCA's website, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has legal jurisdiction over commodities, such as bitcoin and ether, though it does not necessarily have jurisdiction over cash and spot markets derived from commodities.

However, under the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA), the CFTC can regulate fraud or market manipulation.

:

"The purchase and sale of commodities in the spot/cash markets has been historically exempt from the CEA and CFTC jurisdiction. Nevertheless, cash markets for virtual commodities – as it is a less well known industry – can benefit from an additional layer of oversight. We believe that adding this layer can provide even more protection for consumers and ensure the integrity of these markets and growing industry."

To that end, the VCA will appoint a board of directors to oversee the organization, which will commit to remaining a non-profit, independent group that can "help set and adopt global standards and best practices."

Image via Shutterstock

Disclosure

Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information have been updated.

CoinDesk is an award-winning media outlet that covers the cryptocurrency industry. Its journalists abide by a strict set of editorial policies. CoinDesk has adopted a set of principles aimed at ensuring the integrity, editorial independence and freedom from bias of its publications. CoinDesk is part of the Bullish group, which owns and invests in digital asset businesses and digital assets. CoinDesk employees, including journalists, may receive Bullish group equity-based compensation. Bullish was incubated by technology investor Block.one.


Learn more about Consensus 2024, CoinDesk's longest-running and most influential event that brings together all sides of crypto, blockchain and Web3. Head to consensus.coindesk.com to register and buy your pass now.