AFSA – Astana Financial Services Authority
The second phase of the AIFC Providing Money Services framework comes into force
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 […]
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. 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. afsa.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. aifc.kz Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: pr@afsa.kz
AFSA publishes a report on the application of Generative AI in financial services at the AIFC
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 […]
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 breakthroughs in AI with the advent of efficient Generative AI, have been a catalyst of rapid transformations across industries. The recent AI Survey that AFSA conducted in 2025 is a part of ongoing activities in regulatory innovation, and at this step we focused on understanding the level of exposure of AIFC financial market to AI risks. As we expect more AI solutions in finance, further monitoring is necessary, in this regard, we are planning to conduct another AI Survey in the upcoming year”. He also noted that as a financial services regulator, AFSA recognises the significant potential of AI in financial services. At the same time, the regulator believes that testing within the regulatory sandbox is essential for both the industry and regulators to obtain critical insights and develop the necessary expertise. These steps form a core component of AFSA’s commitment to supporting responsible innovation, maintaining robust regulatory standards, and protecting customers’ interests in an increasingly AI-driven financial services environment. AI Survey can be found here. 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 4,900 firms from 90+ 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. afsa.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. aifc.kz Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: pr@afsa.kz
AFSA introduces amendments to Capital Market, Digital Assets and Crowdfunding frameworks in the AIFC
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 […]
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 Prospectus exemption for offers of fungible securities. Following the public consultation, AFSA also introduced further refinements. These include: Amending Prospectus exemptions to broaden cross-listing opportunities and enhance a dual-listing regime; Removing the requirement for issuers incorporated in Kazakhstan to appoint an agent for service of process. The commencement date is 1 January 2026. The AIFC Market Rules, AIFC Authorised Market Institution Rules and AIFC Glossary with the relevant amendments are available on the AIFC and AFSA websites. The Feedback Statement on the outcomes of public consultation is available here: <a href="https://eur04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Forderly.myafsa.com%2Farticles%2Ffeedback-statement-on-consultation-paper-afsa-p-ce-2025-0001-from-19-december-2025&data=05%7C02%7Cmadina.kalimova%40afsa.kz%7C043706d03e394942f97708de3eed9306%7C1bf47948c1be432d880407eb905182f1%7C0%7C0%7C639017387267356861%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=aPg2pJOaj2im2kwm3iZKl9eAkh7gw7hOeewG%2BLzq%2F2Q%3D&reserved=0">Feedback Statement On Consultation Paper AFSA-P-CE-2025-0001 Amendments to the AIFC Capital Market Framework. Amendments to the AIFC Digital Assets Framework Within the revision of the AIFC Digital Assets Framework, AFSA has undertaken a targeted review of the regulatory treatment of Regulated Activities involving digital assets. This review confirmed that all firms conducting activities in relation to Digital Assets should be treated as Digital Asset Service Providers (DASPs), consistent with the AIFC Rules on Digital Asset Activities. The amendments further clarify that the application of certain governance and technology-related obligations is linked to whether firms hold or control digital assets or use distributed ledger technology (DLT). In addition, based on experience from the practical application of the framework and feedback received during the public consultation, the amendments introduce further changes, including: Revising the capital requirement for Digital Asset Trading Facility (DATF) Operators; Expanding the membership eligibility at DATF; Revising the notification requirement for admission of Digital Assets to trading; Consolidating Business Rules, Membership Rules and Admission to Trading Rules into a single set of Business Rules; Allowing a DATF Operator to incorporate a Digital Asset’s white paper by reference into the key features document; Increasing the Digital Asset inclusion threshold to 50% when calculating an individual Client’s net assets for Assessed Professional Client status. The commencement date is 1 January 2026. The AIFC Rules on Digital Asset Activities and the AIFC Glossary with the relevant amendments are available on the AIFC and AFSA websites. The Feedback Statement on the outcomes of public consultation is available here: <a href="https://eur04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Forderly.myafsa.com%2Farticles%2Ffeedback-statement-on-consultation-paper-afsa-p-ce-2025-0002-from-19-december-2025&data=05%7C02%7Cmadina.kalimova%40afsa.kz%7C043706d03e394942f97708de3eed9306%7C1bf47948c1be432d880407eb905182f1%7C0%7C0%7C639017387267639060%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=wzcHE340dl2uu2GBcrpktikcUnNRQVjtbHYQTSuSnxg%3D&reserved=0">Feedback Statement On Consultation Paper AFSA-P-CE-2025-0002 Amendments to the AIFC Digital Assets Framework. Amendments to the AIFC Crowdfunding Framework The amendments to the AIFC Crowdfunding Framework are intended to address key regulatory and operational issues, strengthen investor protection, and enhance transparency and integrity across the AIFC crowdfunding market. Key changes include: Strengthened due diligence requirements for Borrowers and Issuers; Enhanced framework for defaults, overdue payments and failures; Restriction on new lending proposals for borrowers in default; Disclosure of results of creditworthiness grading or rating; New annual lending and investment limits for retail clients; Improved financial literacy and education via enhanced risk disclosure; Introducing loan restructuring disclosure requirements; Aligning client classification with the broader AIFC regulatory framework. During the public consultation, AFSA received extensive feedback on the initial proposals, which led to certain refinements, including changes to due diligence requirements and the framework for defaults, overdue payments and failures, as well as other clarifications. In addition, the initially proposed suitability assessment requirement for retail clients was removed, and a transition period to align with the amended requirements was permitted to provide adequate time to make necessary adjustments, align internal processes, and prepare for compliance with the new requirements. The commencement date is 1 January 2026, with a six-month transition period for existing Authorised Crowdfunding Platforms. The AIFC Authorised Market Institution Rules, AIFC Conduct of Business Rule and AIFC General Rules with the relevant amendments are available on the AIFC and AFSA websites. The Feedback Statement on the outcomes of public consultation is available here: <a href="https://eur04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Forderly.myafsa.com%2Farticles%2Ffeedback-statement-on-consultation-paper-afsa-p-ce-2025-0003-from-19-december&data=05%7C02%7Cmadina.kalimova%40afsa.kz%7C043706d03e394942f97708de3eed9306%7C1bf47948c1be432d880407eb905182f1%7C0%7C0%7C639017387267662433%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=C8TaJyBk5opyY5TEgfbzRE1uT6NEm3Moy8W3SR6%2Fl8E%3D&reserved=0">Feedback Statement On Consultation Paper AFSA-P-CE-2025-0003 Amendments to the AIFC Crowdfunding Framework. 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 4,800 firms from more than 90+ 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz
AFSA introduces amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules
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 […]
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 had already addressed a number of concerns raised through the public consultation. However, in light of certain comments and the practical realities faced by regulated entities, AFSA introduced targeted adjustments to a number of proposals. As a result, the key amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules are as follows: The application fees for authorisation of Regulated Activities, Market Activities, Ancillary Services, Recognised Non-AIFC Market Institutions and Foreign Fund Managers have been increased at varying levels, as proposed in the consultation paper, to more accurately reflect the actual regulatory cost at the authorisation stage. Under the revised fee structure, firms applying for authorisation of more than one Regulated or Market Activity will pay the highest applicable application fee plus 50% for each additional activity. This better reflects the complexity of multi-activity applications and ensures a fairer allocation of regulatory costs. To ensure the recovery of actual supervisory costs, the annual fixed supervision fees for Regulated Activities, Market Activities and Ancillary Services as well as recognition fee for Recognised Non-AIFC Market Institutions have been increased at varying levels, as proposed in the consultation paper, and introduced for a number of Islamic finance licences that were not previously subject to supervision fees. With that recognising that the introduction of supervision fees for Islamic finance licences represents a new requirement for the sector and that firms may need time to adjust AFSA decided to defer the commencement date of supervision fees for these Islamic finance licences for one year. For five licence categories of Regulated Activities, including Managing a Collective Investment Scheme, Managing Investments, Dealing in Investments as Agent, Providing Fund Administration, and Providing Money Services, and one licence category of Market Activities (Operating a Crowdfunding Platform) new variable components have been introduced for a more sophisticated and proportionate fee structure. Variable fees will be calculated based on relevant financial indicators, as proposed in the consultation paper, and will apply only above a defined threshold. No changes are made to existing variable fees for certain Regulated and Market Activities at this stage, as these fees were introduced relatively recently. Following public consultation, the calculation methodology for new variable component was revised for four Regulated Activities from average daily to end-quarter values where the variable component is based on stock values. In addition, given the significant demand from the market for clarification of the methodology for calculating the variable fee for the Providing Money Services licence, particularly regarding which components should be included or excluded from the transaction value, AFSA has decided to defer the commencement date of this new fee by one year. During this period, AFSA will work with market participants to develop practical guidance and align with supervisory reporting requirements. With the introduction of new variable fees in addition to the existing ones, AFSA is also introducing a cap on variable fees for all Regulated and Market Activities to which a variable fee applies. Previously, a cap existed only for the Digital Asset Trading Facility licence, set at USD 1 million, which was used as the reference point in the initial policy proposals. Following public consultation, AFSA revised the proposal and decided to reduce the cap to USD 250,000 to ensure predictable costs for market participants and better reflect the current scale of the market. Amendments have also been introduced to the initial supervision fee and to the calculation of subsequent supervision fees for firms holding multiple licences. Specifically, the initial annual supervision fee now will be payable within 21 days from the date of the grant of licence, rather than from the date of commencement of operations, in order to cover the Risk Mitigation Programme (RMP) period, which requires substantial supervisory resources. As to the subsequent annual supervision fee, under the new approach, the fee will be calculated as the highest applicable fixed annual supervision fee plus 50% for each additional licensed activity. For activities subject to variable fees, 100% of the variable component will be payable for each such activity. Having reviewed the extensive feedback on the latter proposal given its direct impact on the overall amount of supervision fees payable by firms holding multiple licences and concerns that a certain combination of licences is a result of closely interrelated or overlapping activities, AFSA decided to defer the commencement date of the new approach for one year. For the 2026 supervision year, firms will continue to pay only the highest applicable fixed annual supervision fee and, in addition, the highest variable component if applicable. This transition period will allow market participants to adjust and plan for the resulting supervisory costs. Prior to implementation, AFSA will issue additional guidance outlining its approach to a combination of licences for supervision fee calculation. AFSA has also revised its approach to fees for licence modification for Regulated and Market Activities and Ancillary Services, as proposed in the consultation paper, which mostly amount to a full authorisation process, requiring the same level of analysis and assessment as an initial application. The application and modification fees for Approved Individuals have been also revised and increased to reflect the actual regulatory effort involved and to help reduce the frequency of changes among key individuals appointed. After reviewing the market feedback, the proposed increase to USD 1,000 have been reduced to USD 500 for full regime, and to USD 200 for FinTech Lab applications, taking into account current market constraints. As to the other FinTech Lab fees, application and supervision fees within the FinTech Lab have been increased as proposed in the consultation paper, as well as new fees for change of control and admission of Digital Assets to trading are introduced. In addition, AFSA introduces changes to some other fees related to authorisation and supervsion, including application fees in relation to Digital Assets, application fee for change of control, registration or notification for Non-Exempt and Exempt Funds, amendments to the Constitution or Offering Materials of Non-Exempt Funds, which have been increased, as proposed in the consultation paper. Furthermore, an additional category of fees for individual appointments within Ancillary Service Providers, covering changes of Money Laundering Reporting Officers (MLROs) and changes or new appointments of Audit Principal have been introduced. Registration and recognition fees payable to the Registrar of Companies have also been revised across a range of legal entity types, with adjustments reflecting both the general fee revision and targeted corrections, while certain categories such as Special Purpose Companies and Investment Funds required targeted decreases to reflect their role as investment vehicles with diverse potential uses. Amendments have also been introduced to the administrative services fees and annual report filing fees payable to the Registrar of Companies, as proposed in the consultation paper. Late fees payable to AFSA and the Registrar of Companies have been also increased, while those applicable to FinTech Lab participants remain unchanged. The commencement date is 1 December 2025, with the exception of the deferred provisions specified in the AIFC Fees Rules. The relevant amendments to the AIFC Fees Rules are available here: https://orderly.myafsa.com/articles/feesrules. A dedicated Q&A section, developed on the basis of questions and concerns raised during the public consultation, is also available here: https://afsa.aifc.kz/31302-2/. Should firms have further questions regarding their feedback, they may contact us at consultation@afsa.kz or reach out to their respective supervisor. AFSA is available to arrange a call or meeting if a firm wishes to discuss any points in more detail. 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 4,700 firms from 88 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz
Registrar of Companies Strengthens Efforts to Update Public Register and Enhance Oversight of AIFC Participants
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 […]
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, enhancing the AIFC’s business reputation, and aligning with international standards for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT). For active and compliant AIFC participants, this process will not create any difficulties. Upon completion, the companies identified through this review will receive clear guidance and ample time to submit the required information. 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 4,600 firms from 88 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz
AIFC recognised among global leaders in implementing IOSCO digital asset standards
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”, […]
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 international cooperation, including over 60 MoUs with global regulators and IOSCO membership frameworks; is among a few jurisdictions that fully implemented all custody-related recommendations, including daily reconciliation of client assets and annual independent audits of stablecoin reserves; is one of eight jurisdictions with full implementation of retail client protection, requiring CASPs to assess client suitability and handle complaints transparently. Through its regulatory sandbox (FinTech Lab) comprehensive and forward-looking regulatory regime established under the AIFC Acts, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has built a balanced environment that encourages financial innovation while ensuring the highest levels of investor protection and operational resilience. This recognition positions Kazakhstan and AIFC among global leaders in shaping fair, robust, transparent, and innovation-driven digital asset ecosystem, reinforcing the country’s role as a trusted regulatory hub within the Eurasian region. 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 4,500 firms from more than 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz [1] CASP is defined in the IOSCO Policy Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets Final Report as “service providers that conduct a wide range of activities relating to crypto-assets, including but not limited to, admission to trading, trading (as agent or principal), operating a market, custody, and other activities such as services relating to lending/staking of crypto-assets and the promotion, marketing and distribution of crypto-assets on behalf of others
AFSA grants ATAIX Eurasia Ltd a Licence for full authorisation and supervisory regime
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 […]
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 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 4,500 firms from over 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz
Astana Financial Services Authority adopts Revised Enforcement Policy
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 […]
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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz
AFSA received first-ever regulatory fee payment in stablecoins
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 […]
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 in stablecoins marks a significant milestone toward a future-oriented financial ecosystem. It highlights AFSA’s commitment to driving innovation and establishing secure, transparent, and adaptive regulatory frameworks that evolve with the pace of global financial transformation.” Bybit Kazakhstan is honored to collaborate with the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) in enabling the first successful regulatory fee payment through our secure digital asset infrastructure. The inaugural payment, made by SkyBridge Digital Finance Ltd., marks a significant milestone that underscores AFSA’s progressive vision and our shared commitment to fostering compliant, transparent, and innovative payment solutions that strengthen Kazakhstan’s financial ecosystem,” said Ablaikhan Aubakir, Country Manager at Bybit Kazakhstan “Our team is proud to participate in a milestone that marks the next step in the evolution of global finance. The first regulatory fee paid in USDT sets a precedent comparable in scale to the first payment made with a magnetic stripe card. This achievement strengthens financial inclusivity and opens access to banking for the unbanked,” said Yessengeldy Rakhimbekov, CEO of SkyBridge Digital Finance Ltd. The stablecoin sector continues to play an increasingly important role in global finance. According to CoinMarketCap Data[1], as of September 2025, the total market capitalisation of stablecoins reached an all-time high of $307.6 billion, with fiat-backed stablecoins accounting for the majority of trading activity. Important: This initiative applies only to regulatory fees payable by AIFC Participants and applicants for authorisation and registration in the AIFC and does not include taxes or other government payments in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan’s Tenge (KZT) is the sole legal tender in the Republic of Kazakhstan. 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 more than 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz [1] Top Stablecoin Tokens by Market Capitalization | CoinMarketCap
AFSA Launches Consultation on Proposed Regulatory Fee Updates
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 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 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.kz The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/ Contact information: Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA: +7 (717) 264 73 43; +7 7172 61-37-45 email: pr@afsa.kz [1] the use of innovative technologies by financial regulators and supervisors to improve how they monitor and oversee financial markets and institutions.