AFSA – Astana Financial Services Authority
type: channel
description: Astana Financial Services Authority
date: 2026-01-13T07:48:50Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
generator agent: https://wordpress.org/
items: The second phase of the AIFC Providing Money Services framework comes into force
items: AFSA publishes a report on the application of Generative AI in financial services at the AIFC
items: AFSA introduces amendments to Capital Market, Digital Assets and Crowdfunding frameworks in the AIFC
items: AFSA introduces amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules
items: Registrar of Companies Strengthens Efforts to Update Public Register and Enhance Oversight of AIFC Participants
items: AIFC recognised among global leaders in implementing IOSCO digital asset standards
items: AFSA grants ATAIX Eurasia Ltd a Licence for full authorisation and supervisory regime
items: Astana Financial Services Authority adopts Revised Enforcement Policy
items: AFSA received first-ever regulatory fee payment in stablecoins
items: AFSA Launches Consultation on Proposed Regulatory Fee Updates

The second phase of the AIFC Providing Money Services framework comes into force
type: item
creator: Yuriy Massanov
date: 2026-01-13T07:34:07Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: Today, January 13, 2026, marks the implementation of the second phase (final) of the AIFC Providing Money Service (PMS) framework. Overall, the provisions of the second phase concern: Client protection (complaints handling, requirements on content of Сlient agreement, safeguarding of Сlient money, information/communication requirements etc.); Cyber/operational resilience (cybersecurity policies, incident reporting, IT audit, strong customer authentication etc.). The new PMS framework was adopted by AFSA back on April […]
encoded: Today, January 13, 2026, marks the implementation of the second phase (final) of the AIFC Providing Money Service (PMS) framework. Overall, the provisions of the second phase concern: Client protection (complaints handling, requirements on content of Сlient agreement, safeguarding of Сlient money, information/communication requirements etc.); Cyber/operational resilience (cybersecurity policies, incident reporting, IT audit, strong customer authentication etc.). The new PMS framework was adopted by AFSA back on April 13, 2025. To ensure preparations for the purposes of proper and timely compliance with the new regulatory regime, the framework provided for a transitional period, which includes two phases. The 1st phase came into force on October 13, 2025, which introduced definitions, capital requirements and provisions on use of digital assets in money services. The comprehensive PMS framework introduces new Rule on Providing Money Services and several amendments to the AIFC Acts available at the following links: AIFC Rules on Providing Money Services AIFC General Rules AIFC Glossary AIFC Conduct of Business Rules AIFC Banking Business Prudential Rules AIFC Rules on Digital Asset Activities The newly adopted PMS framework is aimed at providing clear rules for money service providers, encouraging FinTech innovation in the AIFC, including the use of Digital Assets in money services. Along with fostering the money services industry development, the framework has other key goals in protecting the interests of consumers and strengthening the cyber as well as operational resilience of money service providers. Reference: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is the independent regulator of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), which is established in accordance with the Constitutional Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Astana International Financial Centre” for the purposes of regulating financial services and related activities in the AIFC. AFS…

AFSA publishes a report on the application of Generative AI in financial services at the AIFC
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-12-25T11:44:03Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is publishing a new report on the application of Generative Artificial Intelligence in financial services (AI Survey) at the AIFC, demonstrating AFSA’s commitment to its objectives on fostering the development of financial technologies in the AIFC and at the same time ensuring that financial markets in AIFC operate in […]
encoded: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is publishing a new report on the application of Generative Artificial Intelligence in financial services (AI Survey) at the AIFC, demonstrating AFSA’s commitment to its objectives on fostering the development of financial technologies in the AIFC and at the same time ensuring that financial markets in AIFC operate in fair, efficient, transparent and orderly manner. The AI Survey received 42 responses from Authorised Persons. The results of AI Survey highlight that 45% of respondents use AI which shows the early-phase adoption of AI, marked by cautious experimentation and a clear focus on risk management and operational efficiency. AI usage is currently concentrated in lower-risk areas, such as customer communication and marketing, with limited integration into core financial functions, like algorithmic trading or credit underwriting. A prominent trend identified is the reliance on third-party AI solutions. Based on AI Survey findings and to further ensure responsible innovation and appropriately respond to the evolving risks from AI in finance, the AFSA plans to сonduct another AI survey in 2026. The results of this survey will be used to assess whether regulatory amendments are necessary in relation to the application of AI in financial services, while continuing to monitor AI adoption by Authorised Persons and focusing on the regulatory aspects of AI implementation. AIFC FinTech Lab as a regulatory sandbox offers regulated and secure environment to Test and/or Develop innovative financial services in the AIFC. Consequently, potential applicants and FinTech Lab Participants are welcome to test financial services and products with the use of AI solutions within AIFC FinTech Lab (regulatory sandbox) under the existing regulatory regime. Yerkegali Yedenbayev, Chief Authorisation and FinTech Officer of the AFSA, said: “AFSA has always supported a controlled growth of innovative financial services in the AIFC. Recent break…

AFSA introduces amendments to Capital Market, Digital Assets and Crowdfunding frameworks in the AIFC
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-12-19T11:33:20Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has introduced amendments to three core frameworks regulating capital market, digital assets, and crowdfunding, with an effective date of 1 January 2026, following the public consultation held from 21 July to 15 September 2025. The amendments aim to improve the effectiveness, proportionality and international alignment of the AIFC regulatory […]
encoded: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has introduced amendments to three core frameworks regulating capital market, digital assets, and crowdfunding, with an effective date of 1 January 2026, following the public consultation held from 21 July to 15 September 2025. The amendments aim to improve the effectiveness, proportionality and international alignment of the AIFC regulatory framework. They reflect insights from supervisory observations, regular engagement with market participants, international benchmarking, and the feedback received during the consultation period. As part of strengthening transparency and promoting a more effective consultation process, AFSA is also introducing the use of Feedback Statements for the first time in relation to these amendments. These statements summarise the key issues and themes raised by stakeholders, provide AFSA’s responses to the comments and suggestions received, and explain how the feedback has been taken into account in finalising the amendments. By clarifying the rationale and how stakeholder input influences regulatory outcomes, Feedback Statements support greater transparency, strengthen trust, and reinforce AFSA’s commitment to an open and continuous dialogue with the market. Amendments to the AIFC Capital Market Framework The amendments to the AIFC Capital Market Framework mainly cover securities offerings, corporate governance and disclosure requirements, supporting further capital market development and aligning with evolving approaches to capital market regulation. Key changes include: Applying corporate governance requirements solely to issuers of Equity Securities; Expanding the membership eligibility at Authorised Market Institution; Aligning client classification with the broader AIFC regulatory framework; Enhancing Prospectus disclosure requirements and efficiency of listing process; Raising the threshold for determining a Related Party and revising the closed period; Increasing the threshold for Pr…

AFSA introduces amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-11-26T12:21:32Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: Following public consultation conducted from 2 October to 2 November 2025, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has introduced amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules, with the majority of them taking effect from 1 December 2025 and some subject to deferred commencement dates. Since their initial approval in December 2017, the AIFC Fees Rules have […]
encoded: Following public consultation conducted from 2 October to 2 November 2025, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has introduced amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules, with the majority of them taking effect from 1 December 2025 and some subject to deferred commencement dates. Since their initial approval in December 2017, the AIFC Fees Rules have undergone a series of targeted updates to reflect evolving regulatory regime and market developments. Notwithstanding these amendments, the original fee levels have largely remained unchanged until these new amendments. Previous adjustments have been introduced only in a limited and proportionate manner, primarily in relation to supervision and registration fees. Considering that the AIFC ecosystem has reached a more advanced stage of development, the new amendments introduce a substantially broader revision, affecting almost all fee categories. The growth of financial institutions and the increasing sophistication of their activities require AFSA to provide more comprehensive and technologically advanced regulatory and supervisory services, including the enhanced use of SupTech, artificial intelligence, and data-driven tools to strengthen supervisory capacity and improve the overall quality of regulation. The updated AIFC Fees Rules aim to ensure that AFSA can continue to uphold high regulatory standards while supporting the sustainable development of the AIFC ecosystem. On 2 October 2025, AFSA issued for public consultation a number of policy proposals on amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules. A substantial volume of feedback was received from a wide range of market participants, who generally recognised the need for an increase while also raising certain concerns and seeking clarification on some proposals. AFSA carefully reviewed and considered all comments received. The majority of the initial proposals have been retained, as they were confirmed during the review to be proportionate and justified, and in many cases ha…

Registrar of Companies Strengthens Efforts to Update Public Register and Enhance Oversight of AIFC Participants
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2025-11-14T05:46:53Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: Since its establishment, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has been actively fulfilling its mandate, including the registration and supervision of the Centre’s participants. Since 2017, more than 4,600 companies have been registered in the AIFC. The AIFC’s legal framework, based on the principles of common law, makes it attractive to both financial and non-financial […]
encoded: Since its establishment, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has been actively fulfilling its mandate, including the registration and supervision of the Centre’s participants. Since 2017, more than 4,600 companies have been registered in the AIFC. The AIFC’s legal framework, based on the principles of common law, makes it attractive to both financial and non-financial companies. Among its participants are major operating companies, IT startups, mining and oil and gas enterprises, endowment funds, and organisations from various other sectors. As in many other international jurisdictions, the AIFC Public Register may include companies with limited operational activity. Such entities are often set up for various administrative purposes. The role of AFSA is to ensure that the information in the public register remains current and accurately reflects the actual state of affairs, thereby strengthening transparency and promoting trust in the AIFC ecosystem. In this regard, the AIFC Registrar of Companies is launching a scheduled initiative to update company information and verify their operational status, including checks on the submission of annual reports and the accuracy of registration details; confirming actual operational activity through supporting documents; verifying the validity of existing licenses; and ensuring compliance with AIFC Acts and reporting deadlines. All companies identified as requiring a status update will be sent official notifications containing explanations and guidance on how to verify their operational activity. Companies that fail to provide confirmation of their activity may be removed from the register (struck off) in accordance with Article 167 of the AIFC Companies Regulations. The strike-off procedure is a common international practice adopted by leading jurisdictions such as Singapore, the United Kingdom, Delaware, Australia, and others. This initiative is aimed at ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the Public Register…

AIFC recognised among global leaders in implementing IOSCO digital asset standards
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-10-21T06:48:14Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) has been recognised by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) among the world’s leading jurisdictions in implementing global standards for regulating crypto and digital asset markets. The recognition comes as part of the IOSCO Thematic Review “Assessing the Implementation of IOSCO Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets”, […]
encoded: The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) has been recognised by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) among the world’s leading jurisdictions in implementing global standards for regulating crypto and digital asset markets. The recognition comes as part of the IOSCO Thematic Review “Assessing the Implementation of IOSCO Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets”, published in October 2025. Out of more than 130 IOSCO member jurisdictions, only 20 were selected for this global assessment – representing the most developed frameworks for investor protection, market integrity, and responsible innovation. “The AIFC has been recognised among the four leading jurisdictions in the world successfully implementing IOSCO recommendations in the regulation of digital assets. We will continue to consistently develop this area. Our key goal is to ensure the most comfortable, transparent, and secure environment for all users of digital assets,” said AIFC Governor Renat Bekturov. The AIFC was identified among those demonstrating the highest level of progress, with all ten priority IOSCO recommendations fully implemented and in force as of 31 July 2025. This places Kazakhstan among the top jurisdictions globally for establishing transparent and secure regulation of digital assets. The IOSCO report contains over 30 positive references to the AIFC’s digital asset regulatory framework, including five examples where it is cited as a best practice in implementing international recommendations. Highlights of AIFC achievements belongs to ten jurisdictions that have established strong governance standards for crypto-asset service providers (CASPs)[1]; is among eleven jurisdictions ensuring full transparency and disclosure of roles and trading conflicts by CASPs; is part of twelve jurisdictions that have introduced comprehensive measures to combat fraud, market abuse, and insider trading; is one of nineteen jurisdictions maintaining extensive inter…

AFSA grants ATAIX Eurasia Ltd a Licence for full authorisation and supervisory regime
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-10-17T11:21:55Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has granted a Licence for the full supervisory regime to ATAIX Eurasia Ltd (Ataix). This follows Ataix’s participation in the AIFC’s regulatory sandbox, designed to foster innovation in financial services. Notably, Ataix was among the first participants of the Pilot Project for cooperation between crypto exchanges and second-tier banks […]
encoded: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has granted a Licence for the full supervisory regime to ATAIX Eurasia Ltd (Ataix). This follows Ataix’s participation in the AIFC’s regulatory sandbox, designed to foster innovation in financial services. Notably, Ataix was among the first participants of the Pilot Project for cooperation between crypto exchanges and second-tier banks of Kazakhstan. With this Licence, Ataix transitions from the sandbox regime to operating under the comprehensive AIFC regulatory framework for Digital Asset Service Providers. The framework aims to promote innovation, ensure market integrity, and safeguard client interests. Ataix currently serves a growing client base across Kazakhstan and the region, offering access to a range of digital asset products and services through its platform. Under the full authorisation and supervisory regime, Ataix is authorised to carry on the following Regulated Activities: Operating a Digital Asset Trading Facility; Dealing in Investments as Principal; Dealing in Investments as Agent; Providing Custody. Importantly, operating under the full regulatory regime allows Ataix to admit digital assets to trading on its own platforms (excluding non-AIFC-issued stablecoins) without prior approval from AFSA (in accordance with its own Admission of Digital Assets for trading Rules developed pursuant to the requirements of the AIFC Acts). This framework streamlines operations and enhances the Ataix’s responsiveness to market developments. This achievement represents an important step forward for the digital asset ecosystem in Kazakhstan and the AIFC, reflecting the steady development and growing maturity of the local digital asset sector. Information about Digital Asset Service Providers registered and licensed by AFSA is available at the following links: AIFC’s Regulatory Sandbox AFSA full regulatory regime Reference: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is the independent regulator of the Astana Internati…

Astana Financial Services Authority adopts Revised Enforcement Policy
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-10-08T05:18:46Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) announces the adoption of its revised Enforcement Policy, replacing the version that has been in effect since 13 October 2019. The updated Policy is now officially in effect and reflects the ongoing developments in regulatory practice, alignment with international best standards, and AFSA’s commitment to providing clear and transparent guidance […]
encoded: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) announces the adoption of its revised Enforcement Policy, replacing the version that has been in effect since 13 October 2019. The updated Policy is now officially in effect and reflects the ongoing developments in regulatory practice, alignment with international best standards, and AFSA’s commitment to providing clear and transparent guidance on the use of its enforcement powers. Key enhancements introduced include: improved clarity of processes in the conduct of investigations; refinements to the approach in determining sanctions and financial penalties; new provisions on restitution and actions for damages; strengthened consistency with AFSA’s statutory powers. AFSA encourages all market participants to review the revised Policy to support informed and responsible business conduct. Greater awareness of the updated approach will help any Person carrying on activities in or from the AIFC align more effectively with regulatory expectations, enhance operational practices, and contribute to a well-functioning AIFC ecosystem. Reference: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is the independent regulator of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), which is established in accordance with the Constitutional Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Astana International Financial Centre” for the purposes of regulating financial services and related activities in the AIFC. AFSA administers the AIFC Regulations and Rules and is responsible for the authorisation, registration, recognition and supervision of financial firms and market institutions in the AIFC. Over 4,400 firms from 85 countries are registered in the AIFC. These firms provide banking, insurance, investment, professional and other services. The range of financial services offered at the AIFC is comparable to the list of services available in long-established financial centers of the world, such as London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai and others. www…

AFSA received first-ever regulatory fee payment in stablecoins
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-10-06T09:16:48Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is pleased to announce a milestone in its pilot project – the successful receipt of the first regulatory fee payment in stablecoins pegged to USD. The project enables Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Participants, as well as applicants seeking authorisation or registration in the AIFC, to pay regulatory fees […]
encoded: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is pleased to announce a milestone in its pilot project – the successful receipt of the first regulatory fee payment in stablecoins pegged to USD. The project enables Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Participants, as well as applicants seeking authorisation or registration in the AIFC, to pay regulatory fees using USD pegged stablecoins. SkyBridge Digital Finance Ltd., a licensed Digital Asset Service Provider and FinTech Lab Participant in the AIFC paid the first regulatory fees to AFSA in stablecoins under this initiative. The pilot project, officially launched during Astana Finance Days 2025, introduced an innovative payment framework designed to expand the range of settlement options for AIFC market participants. The pilot represents the first regulatory mechanism of its kind in the region, demonstrating Kazakhstan’s ambition to position the AIFC as a hub for digital finance and innovation while aligning with global trends in stablecoin adoption. Bybit Limited, the first signatory to the Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MMoU) with AFSA, facilitated the first stablecoin payment through its role as a Provider. From now on, AIFC Participants and applicants applying for authorisation or registration within the AIFC will be able to pay regulatory fees to AFSA in stablecoins through verified providers. The list of Providers will be published on the AFSA website. Under the framework, Digital Asset Service Providers licensed by AFSA to operate a Digital Asset Trading Facility or provide Money Services in relation to Digital Assets may join the project as Providers. In this role, they act on behalf of Payers to process stablecoin payments and transfer the equivalent fiat currency to AFSA’s designated bank account. Companies interested in participating as a Provider may contact AFSA via e-mail at finance@afsa.kz. Evgeniya Bogdanova, Chief Executive Officer of AFSA, said: “The acceptance of our first fee i…

AFSA Launches Consultation on Proposed Regulatory Fee Updates
type: item
creator: Madina Kalimova
date: 2025-10-02T10:42:28Z
subject: News
subject: AFSA
description: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has opened a consultation on proposed updates to its regulatory fee framework within the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). The planned changes are designed to ensure the framework remains proportionate, transparent, and aligned with the sustainable growth of the AIFC. They include an overall adjustment of fixed fees and […]
encoded: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has opened a consultation on proposed updates to its regulatory fee framework within the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). The planned changes are designed to ensure the framework remains proportionate, transparent, and aligned with the sustainable growth of the AIFC. They include an overall adjustment of fixed fees and the introduction of new variable components for certain activities, reflecting the growing scale and complexity of financial markets. These adjustments are necessary for AFSA to continue sustaining its high-quality regulatory oversight as well as to advance new approaches, including new financial technologies and SupTech[1] for further safeguarding market integrity. Since the fee framework was last updated in 2017, AFSA’s supervisory responsibilities have grown significantly. Today, the AIFC is home to more than 4,400 participants from over 85 countries. In the first half of 2025 alone, assets under AFSA’s supervision reached USD 1.85 billion. “AIFC has evolved into a sophisticated financial ecosystem. To protect consumers, address emerging risks such as cyber resilience and financial crime, and maintain high standards of supervision, it is vital that our funding model keeps pace with market realities. This consultation gives stakeholders the opportunity to help shape a fair and transparent framework for the future,” said AFSA Chief Executive Officer, Evgeniya Bogdanova. AFSA encourages all stakeholders to review the Consultation Paper, available here and to submit feedback by 2 November 2025 by e-mailing to consultation@afsa.kz. All responses will be carefully considered before the final framework is confirmed. Reference: The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is the independent regulator of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), which is established in accordance with the Constitutional Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Astana International Financial Centre” for t…