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Is Crypto Legal in Georgia?

Cryptocurrency is legal and regulated in Georgia. The jurisdiction has a comprehensive, dedicated crypto framework with licensing and active enforcement. Ministry of Finance is the responsible authority. Primary legislation: AML/CFT Law. The FATF Travel Rule has not been adopted.

Derived from 445 sourced facts for Georgia · last updated · primary sources

Comprehensive Framework Partially Regulated Risk: unknown Updated 7 days ago Research: Grade A

Overview

Georgia regulates crypto through a dedicated framework anchored in the Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (June 2023), with the National Bank of Georgia (NBG) as the sole licensing and supervisory authority; licensing is required for fiat-to-crypto exchange, crypto-to-crypto exchange, custody, and participation in virtual asset issuance or sale. The NBG operationalizes this regime through Resolution N111/04 (July 2023) and Ordinance N59/04 (April 2024), mandating AML/KYC obligations under the amended Law N5183-IIs, including full customer identification and verification for both individuals and legal entities, plus structured reporting requirements. The LoVA explicitly aligns its virtual asset classifications—including Asset-Referenced Tokens and E-money Tokens—with MiCA definitions, making Georgia's framework notably interoperable in concept with EU standards, though it operates as an independent regime outside MiCA's scope. (nbg.gov.ge, matsne.gov.ge, dbf.georgia.gov)

Read the full status overview → AI-synthesized · 2026-07-12
VASP/CASP Registry: None — no registry data for this jurisdiction

Regulatory Bodies

Bank of Georgia Resolution No

National Bank of Georgia Resolution No. 126/04 of December 29, 2022, "On Approval of the Rules for Regulation of Virtual Asset Service Providers" (NBG VASP Rules): This is the core regulatory document that details the licensing,…

Ministry of Finance

Ministry of Finance: Primarily responsible for tax policy regarding virtual assets.

Primary Legislation

Law / Regulation Year Scope
AML/CFT Law Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT Law):
VASP Law Law of Georgia on Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP Law)
NBG Statement on Adoption of VASP Law (July 2023) 2023 NBG Statement on Adoption of VASP Law (July 2023)
ORGANIC LAW OF GEORGIA ON THE NATIONAL BANK OF GEORGIA ORGANIC LAW OF GEORGIA ON THE NATIONAL BANK OF GEORGIA

Licensing Requirements

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National Bank of Georgia (NBG): The central bank is the sole licensing and supervisory authority for VASPs in Georgia.

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Exchange between virtual assets and fiat currencies.

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Exchange between one or more forms of virtual assets.

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Safekeeping and/or administration of virtual assets or instruments enabling control over virtual assets (custody services).

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Participation in and provision of financial services related to an issuer’s offer and/or sale of a virtual asset.

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Required License: VASP Authorization from the NBG.

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This falls directly under points 1 and 2 of the VASP definition.

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This falls directly under point 4 of the VASP definition.

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If a payment processor only handles fiat currency payments for the purchase of virtual assets (e.g., a traditional payment gateway facilitating fiat payments to an exchange), it might primarily fall under general payment service regulations, but the connection to virtual assets will still bring it under the NBG's scrutiny regarding AML/CFT for VASPs. However, if they directly facilitate VA transfers or exchanges as part of their payment service, a VASP license is required.

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Legal Entity: The applicant must be a legal entity registered in Georgia.

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Applicants must meet minimum share capital requirements. The specific amounts are typically defined in NBG resolutions.

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As of recent implementations, the required share capital for a VASP is 1,000,000 GEL (Georgian Lari).

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In addition, VASPs must maintain sufficient operational capital to cover their operational risks and costs.

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Applicants must establish and implement robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies and procedures in compliance with the Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism and relevant NBG regulations.

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Customer due diligence (CDD) and enhanced due diligence (EDD) procedures.

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Reporting of suspicious transactions (STRs) to the Financial Monitoring Service of Georgia (FMS).

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Risk assessment frameworks (business-wide and customer-specific).

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Appointment of an AML/CFT officer.

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A registered office in Georgia.

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Local management (e.g., general director, compliance officer) that is "fit and proper" and resident in Georgia.

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Fit and Proper Requirements: All management board members, supervisory board members, and significant shareholders must meet "fit and proper" criteria, including having relevant experience, no criminal record, and demonstrating good repute.

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Organizational Structure: A clear and effective governance structure, internal control mechanisms, risk management systems, and audit functions must be in place.

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Robust and secure IT systems, data protection measures, cybersecurity protocols, and business continuity plans (BCP) and disaster recovery plans (DRP) must be established to protect client assets and data.

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Independent security audits may be required.

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Business Plan: A detailed business plan outlining the intended services, target market, operational model, technological infrastructure, and financial projections.

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Internal Rules and Policies: Comprehensive internal rules and procedures covering all operational aspects, including client onboarding, transaction execution, asset safeguarding, complaints handling, and compliance.

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Professional Indemnity Insurance: The NBG may require specific insurance coverage.

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Pre-Application Consultation (Recommended): Applicants may engage with the NBG to discuss their proposed business model and clarify regulatory requirements. While not always mandatory, it can streamline the process.

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Preparation of Application Documents: This is the most extensive phase, involving the compilation of:

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Financial projections (usually for 3-5 years).

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AML/CFT policies and procedures manual.

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Resumes and "fit and proper" declarations for key personnel and significant shareholders.

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Evidence of IT and cybersecurity infrastructure.

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Internal rules, risk management policies, and operational manuals.

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Legal documents of the Georgian entity (charter, registration certificates).

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Any other documentation as required by NBG resolutions.

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Submission of Application: The complete application package is submitted to the NBG. An application fee is typically required.

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The NBG reviews the application for completeness and compliance with all requirements.

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They may request additional information, clarifications, or amendments to the submitted documents.

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Interviews with key personnel may be conducted.

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On-site inspections of proposed operational facilities may occur.

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If satisfied, the NBG issues the VASP authorization.

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If the application is rejected, the NBG provides reasons for the refusal.

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Post-Authorization Obligations: Once authorized, VASPs are subject to ongoing supervisory obligations, including regular reporting to the NBG and the FMS, compliance with all relevant regulations, and potential on-site inspections.

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Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (June 2023):

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This is the foundational law. It sets out the definition of VASPs, the requirement for authorization, NBG's supervisory powers, and general principles.

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Official Source (Georgian Parliament): https://matsne.gov.ge/ka/document/view/5895028?publication=0

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Note: An official English translation may be available via subscription legal databases or through the NBG website's English section once fully implemented and stable.

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National Bank of Georgia Resolution N133/04 on Approving the Rules for Licensing and Supervision of Virtual Asset Service Providers (November 29, 2023):

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This resolution provides the detailed rules for how the Law on Virtual Assets is implemented, including specific requirements for licensing, minimum capital, fit and proper tests, operational standards, reporting, and supervision.

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Official Source (NBG, likely on their resolutions page or Matsne): https://matsne.gov.ge/ka/document/view/6064360?publication=0

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Note: This resolution is critical for understanding the practical requirements.

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Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT Law):

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This law governs the general AML/CFT obligations for all obligated entities in Georgia, including VASPs.

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Note: Specific NBG regulations for VASPs will build upon this general law.

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The NBG's official website is the primary source for updated information, press releases, and publications related to financial regulation. Look for sections on "Financial Sector Supervision" or "Virtual Assets."

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National Bank of Georgia (NBG): This is the primary regulator responsible for the licensing, supervision, and regulation of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). The NBG issues secondary legislation (rules, decrees) to implement the VASP law.

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Financial Monitoring Service of Georgia (FMS): While the NBG licenses and supervises, the FMS is the financial intelligence unit responsible for receiving, analyzing, and disseminating suspicious transaction reports related to money laundering and terrorist financing, including those from VASPs.

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Establishes comprehensive AML/CFT obligations for VASPs, including customer due diligence (CDD), record-keeping, suspicious transaction reporting (STR), and sanctions screening.

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Reference (While an official English translation of the enacted law might not be readily available on a single NBG page, its passage and content are widely reported by NBG and legal firms):

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Key Provisions: This overarching law establishes the general AML/CFT framework in Georgia, to which VASPs are now explicitly subject under the VASP Law. It defines reporting entities, obligations for customer identification, record-keeping, and reporting of suspicious activities to the FMS.

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Reference (Official source for Georgian legislation - may require translation): The Legislative Herald of Georgia (Mtsignobartukhutsesi)

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Licensing is Mandatory: As of March 1, 2024, entities operating as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in Georgia are required to obtain a license from the National Bank of Georgia (NBG). This includes:

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Supervision and Compliance: Licensed VASPs are subject to ongoing supervision by the NBG and must comply with stringent AML/CFT requirements, capital adequacy rules, and other prudential standards.

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Penalties for Non-Compliance: Operating as a VASP without a license can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential criminal charges.

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Individual Trading: The VASP Law primarily targets service providers. Individual participation in virtual asset trading for personal use is not banned, but individuals engaging with unlicensed VASPs do so at their own risk. All transactions with licensed VASPs, however, will be subject to the VASP's AML/CFT procedures.

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Taxation: The Ministry of Finance generally treats virtual assets as property for tax purposes, and capital gains from their sale are typically subject to income tax.

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Official Source (Georgian Parliament): https://matsne.gov.ge/ka/document/view/154749?publication=8

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AML/KYC Requirements

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Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (Law N5183-IIs, adopted December 29, 2006, as amended): This is the fundamental AML/CFT law in Georgia. It was significantly amended in 2023 to explicitly include Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) as "obliged entities" (or "reporting entities"), bringing them under the scope of AML/CFT regulations.

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National Bank of Georgia (NBG) Resolution N111/04 of July 13, 2023, "On Approving the Rules for Regulation of Activities of Virtual Asset Service Providers": This crucial resolution by the NBG provides detailed rules and guidelines for the licensing, supervision, and AML/CFT compliance of VASPs. It elaborates on the requirements stipulated in the main AML law.

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National Bank of Georgia (NBG) Ordinance N59/04 of April 2, 2024, "On the Approval of Rules for Reporting and Publication of Information by Virtual Asset Service Providers": This ordinance further specifies reporting and publication requirements, including those relevant for AML/CFT oversight.

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For Individuals: Obtaining and verifying details such as full name, date and place of birth, address, nationality, and identification document details (e.g., passport or ID card number, issuing authority, expiry date). Verification typically involves reliable, independent source documents or data.

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For Legal Entities: Obtaining and verifying the legal entity's name, legal form, registration number, registered address, and the names of individuals authorized to act on behalf of the entity. Verification involves official corporate documents.

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Identifying the natural person(s) who ultimately own or control the customer, and verifying their identity. This applies to both individual and legal entity customers. For legal entities, this typically means identifying individuals holding 25% or more of the shares or voting rights, or otherwise exercising control.

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Understanding the purpose and nature of the customer's activities and the intended business relationship with the VASP. This helps assess the risk profile.

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Continuously monitoring the business relationship and transactions to ensure they are consistent with the VASP's knowledge of the customer, their business, and risk profile, including the source of funds or wealth.

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Applying EDD measures for higher-risk situations, such as relationships with Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), customers from high-risk jurisdictions, or complex and unusual transactions. EDD may involve obtaining additional information on the source of funds/wealth, purpose of transactions, and senior management approval for the relationship.

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VASPs may apply SDD in specified lower-risk scenarios, as permitted by the NBG.

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Identification of Suspicion: VASPs must establish systems and controls to identify transactions or activities that are unusual or give rise to a suspicion of money laundering or terrorism financing.

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Reporting Obligation: If a VASP knows, suspects, or has reasonable grounds to suspect that funds are the proceeds of a criminal activity, or are related to terrorism financing, it must promptly report this to the LEPL Financial Monitoring Service of Georgia.

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Content of Report: The report must include all available information concerning the customer, the transaction(s), and the grounds for suspicion.

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No Tipping-Off: VASPs and their employees are prohibited from disclosing to the customer or any third party that a STR has been, or will be, submitted.

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Duration: Records must be kept for a period of at least five years following the termination of a business relationship or the date of an occasional transaction.

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CDD Information: All documents and data obtained during the CDD process (identification documents, beneficial ownership information, risk assessments).

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Transaction Records: Details of all transactions, including amounts, types of virtual assets, currencies involved, dates, times, and parties to the transaction. This should allow for the reconstruction of individual transactions.

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Correspondence: Records of internal and external communication related to AML/CFT, including any STRs filed and the analysis supporting the decision to file or not file a report.

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Risk Assessments: Documentation of institutional and customer-specific risk assessments.

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The NBG is the main supervisory authority for VASPs in Georgia. It is responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing the compliance of VASPs with the AML/CFT framework, including CDD and record-keeping requirements, as well as general prudential regulation.

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The FMS is Georgia's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). It is the central authority for receiving, analyzing, and disseminating suspicious transaction reports (STRs) and other financial intelligence to law enforcement agencies. VASPs report their STRs directly to the FMS.

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Travel Rule

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Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) are recognized as regulated obliged entities under Georgia's AML/CFT framework, with the National Bank of Georgia (NBG) designated as the supervisory authority for VASP compliance with anti-money laundering obligations AML / CFT Supervision.

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The primary legal basis for VASP regulation is the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism," which grants NBG authority to supervise virtual asset service providers AML / CFT Supervision.

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Georgia's regulatory framework for virtual assets is still developing, with no comprehensive standalone crypto-asset law currently in force; instead, VASPs fall under the broader financial regulatory and AML/CFT supervision regime administered by NBG Regulatory Framework.

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The NBG has published its AML/CFT supervision framework listing VASPs among obliged entities, indicating that registration or authorization through the central bank's AML/CFT supervisory process is required for crypto businesses operating in Georgia AML / CFT Supervision.

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The practical reality is that while VASPs are formally recognized as supervised entities, the specific travel-rule implementation details—including threshold amounts and technical standards for crypto transfers—must be derived from the AML/CFT Law administered by the Financial Monitoring Service (FMS) of Georgia 1 Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and.

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The National Bank of Georgia (NBG) is the primary financial regulator in Georgia, operating under the Organic Law of Georgia on the National Bank of Georgia, and serves as the supervisory authority for multiple categories of financial institutions including virtual asset service providers The National Bank of Georgia and AML / CFT Supervision.

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The list of obliged entities supervised by NBG for AML/CFT purposes includes: non-bank deposit institutions (credit unions), currency exchange offices, commercial banks, microfinance organizations, brokerage companies, payment service providers, loan issuing entities, securities registrars, investment funds, virtual asset service providers (VASPs), and micro-banks (added starting July 1, 2023) AML / CFT Supervision.

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The Financial Monitoring Service of Georgia is the state body responsible for the overall AML/CFT policy framework, and the Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT Law) is the foundational legislation governing all AML/CFT obligations, including those applicable to virtual asset service providers 1 Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and.

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The NBG publishes its regulatory framework for financial market participants, including securities market regulation, investment funds, brokerage companies, and related licensing rules, which collectively form the broader financial regulatory landscape within which VASPs must operate Regulatory Framework.

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NBG's regulatory framework includes specific orders and decrees governing licensing of securities registrars, brokerage companies, asset management companies, and investment funds—these establish the administrative precedent for how NBG licenses and regulates financial entities under its jurisdiction Regulatory Framework.

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The NBG is also responsible for approving the rules for determining, imposing, and enforcing monetary penalties against entities and members of their governing bodies for violations of securities legislation and the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating of the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism" Regulatory Framework.

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Georgia's legal framework for aliens and stateless persons, governed by the Law of Georgia No. 2045-IIს of March 5, 2014, may be relevant to VASP licensing in terms of foreign ownership, management, and compliance personnel requirements, as this law regulates the legal status of non-Georgian nationals operating in the country ON THE LEGAL STATUS OF ALIENS AND STATELESS PERSONS.

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The Organic Law of Georgia on the National Bank of Georgia establishes the legal basis for NBG's authority as the central bank and financial regulator, including its supervisory powers over financial institutions such as virtual asset service providers ORGANIC LAW OF GEORGIA ON THE NATIONAL BANK OF GEORGIA.

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The NBG's regulatory framework page lists the Law of Georgia on Securities Market, the Law of Georgia on Investment Funds, the Law of Georgia on Mortgage Covered Bonds, and the Law of Georgia on Securitization as primary legal acts—these laws govern the broader financial markets within which crypto-related financial services may operate Regulatory Framework.

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The supervisory approach of NBG toward VASPs is part of its AML/CFT supervision function, distinct from its securities market regulation, indicating that virtual asset providers are primarily regulated through the AML/CFT lens rather than through dedicated crypto-asset legislation AML / CFT Supervision.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The National Bank of Georgia is authorized under the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism" to supervise virtual asset service providers (VASPs), which implies that VASPs must be registered with and authorized by NBG to operate legally in Georgia AML / CFT Supervision.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

There is no standalone virtual asset licensing framework published on NBG's regulatory framework page; instead, VASPs fall under the AML/CFT supervision regime, and the specific registration and authorization requirements must be derived from the AML/CFT Law and NBG's supervisory practice AML / CFT Supervision and Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

For entities operating in the broader financial sector, NBG has established detailed licensing rules, such as Order N33/01 "On the approval of the Rules for Licensing the Securities Registrar," Order №145/04 "On approval of a rule of licensing and regulating of a brokerage company," and Decree №167/04 "On the Approval of the Rule on Licensing, Registration, Recognition and Regulation of an Asset Management Company" Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG also regulates brokerage companies involved in trading with high-risk financial instruments under Order N107/04 "On the approval of the additional regulation rule of brokerage companies involved in trading with high-risk financial instruments," which may be relevant to crypto trading platforms offering brokerage-like services Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Specific capital requirements for VASP licensing are not published on the NBG's public regulatory framework pages; however, for similar financial entities, NBG has issued orders establishing minimum capital requirements, such as Order N33/01 concerning securities registrars Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

As of the current regulatory framework publications, there is no explicit public list of licensed virtual asset service providers on the NBG website, and the NBG's regulatory framework page focuses primarily on traditional securities market and investment fund licensing rather than on a dedicated VASP licensing regime Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's role in supervising VASPs is part of its AML/CFT mandate, meaning that registration as a VASP would involve demonstrating compliance with AML/CFT requirements, including establishing internal controls, policies, and procedures for preventing money laundering and terrorist financing AML / CFT Supervision and 1 Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Structural requirements for VASPs would likely include the appointment of a compliance officer, implementation of customer due diligence procedures, and establishment of transaction monitoring systems, consistent with the obligations imposed on other obliged entities supervised by NBG AML / CFT Supervision.

travel-rulestructural-requirements-for-vasps-would
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No specific public information exists on the NBG website indicating that any specific virtual asset service providers have been formally licensed or registered by NBG as of the date of the current regulatory framework publications AML / CFT Supervision and Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG has issued specific reporting orders for supervised entities, including Order №47/04 "On the approval of the rule for completing reports and presenting information for the legalization of illicit income of the Securities registrar and terrorist financing risk supervision" and Order №48/04 for brokerage companies, which set precedent for reporting obligations that would similarly apply to VASPs Regulatory Framework.

travel-rulethe-nbg-has-issued-specific
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Politically exposed persons (PEPs) screening is a component of the enhanced due diligence requirements under Georgia's AML/CFT framework, requiring obliged entities to apply EDD measures when dealing with foreign or domestic PEPs, which would apply to VASPs as obliged entities 1 Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The travel rule requirement, which mandates that VASP-to-VASP transfers include originator and beneficiary information, is embedded in the AML/CFT obligations of obliged entities under Georgia's AML/CFT framework, implemented through the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards transposed into the AML/CFT Law 1 Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG has the authority to impose monetary penalties against entities and members of their governing bodies for violations of the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating of the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism," as established under Order N35/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The penalty framework under Order N35/04 covers violations of securities legislation, the Law of Georgia "On Accounting, Reporting and Auditing," and the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating of the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism" Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No specific enforcement actions against virtual asset service providers are published on the NBG's AML/CFT supervision page or regulatory framework page as of the current available information AML / CFT Supervision and Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The provided sources from the National Bank of Georgia and the Financial Monitoring Service do not include any tax treatment provisions for cryptocurrency gains, income tax, capital gains tax, or VAT applicable to virtual asset transactions The National Bank of Georgia and AML / CFT Supervision.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The regulatory framework publications focus exclusively on financial regulation, securities market rules, and AML/CFT supervision without addressing taxation of digital assets Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The absence of tax guidance in these official sources indicates that taxation of virtual assets in Georgia falls outside the published regulatory scope of NBG's financial and AML/CFT supervision framework, and tax matters would be governed separately by Georgia's Tax Code, which is not addressed in the provided materials 1 Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Suppression of Money Laundering and.

travel-rulethe-absence-of-tax-guidance
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

There is no dedicated, comprehensive crypto-asset law in Georgia; instead, virtual asset service providers are regulated solely through the AML/CFT supervision framework administered by NBG, creating regulatory uncertainty regarding licensing standards, capital requirements, and operational rules specifically tailored to crypto businesses AML / CFT Supervision and Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The travel rule implementation for crypto transfers in Georgia lacks publicly available specific thresholds, technical standards, and compliance guidance, as the NBG's published AML/CFT supervision page merely lists VASPs as obliged entities without detailing travel-rule obligations AML / CFT Supervision.

travel-rulethe-travel-rule-implementation-for
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

There is no public evidence of any virtual asset service provider having been licensed or registered by NBG, indicating that the practical reality for crypto businesses in Georgia may involve operating in a regulatory gray area where formal authorization is unclear or not yet operationalized AML / CFT Supervision and Regulatory Framework.

travel-rulethere-is-no-public-evidence
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The legal framework for aliens and stateless persons introduces additional compliance considerations for foreign-owned VASPs, as non-Georgian nationals involved in crypto businesses must comply with visa, residence permit, and employment regulations under the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons, adding compliance complexity for international crypto operators ON THE LEGAL STATUS OF ALIENS AND STATELESS PERSONS.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The absence of published enforcement actions against VASPs suggests either a lack of active VASP supervision or a nascent enforcement regime, representing a regulatory gap where non-compliant crypto businesses may operate without immediate consequences AML / CFT Supervision and Regulatory Framework.

travel-rulethe-absence-of-published-enforcement
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Businesses face the risk that the current AML/CFT-based approach may be superseded by more comprehensive crypto-asset regulation in the future, requiring VASPs to adapt their compliance frameworks as Georgia develops its virtual asset legislation in line with international standards AML / CFT Supervision.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The lack of tax guidance for virtual assets in the official regulatory sources creates tax compliance uncertainty for crypto businesses, who cannot determine with certainty how their crypto revenue and gains will be treated for income tax, VAT, or capital gains purposes in Georgia The National Bank of Georgia and Regulatory Framework.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue

(1 more unverified fact(s) )

Tax Reporting

Tax reporting data collection in progress.

Custody Requirements

100%

Key Takeaway: The GDBF views virtual currencies as "money" or "monetary value" for the purposes of the Money Transmission Act when they are used as a medium of exchange. Therefore, activities involving the transmission or holding of virtual currency on behalf of others may require a money transmitter license.

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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
40%

No specific "custodial license" for digital assets.

custodyno-specific-custodial-license-for
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97%

Money Transmitter License (MTL): If a business engages in the "transmission of money" or "receiving money or monetary value for transmission" on behalf of others, including virtual currency, it is likely required to obtain a Money Transmitter License from the GDBF.

custodymoney-transmitter-license-mtl-if
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The requirement for a money‑transmitter license to sell, issue, or transmit virtual currency in Georgia remains enforceable under O.C.G.A. § 7‑1‑681(b), but the specific GDBF advisory wording quoted in the claim is not found in current Georgia‑specific sources.

custodythe-gdbf-advisory-explicitly-states
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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
99%

Relevant Statute: O.C.G.A. § 7-1-681(a)(11) defines "money transmission" broadly.

custodyrelevant-statute-ocga-7-1-681a11-defines
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
100%

Licensing Authority: Georgia Department of Banking and Finance (GDBF)

custodylicensing-authority-georgia-department-of
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Verified May 26, 2026 Report Issue
95%

Application Process: Managed through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry (NMLS).

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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
90%

No explicit crypto-specific asset segregation rules.

custodyno-explicit-crypto-specific-asset-segregation
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
85%

Implicit Requirements from MTL: While not explicitly detailing crypto asset segregation, the Georgia Money Transmission Act does require licensees to maintain certain financial standards to ensure the protection of customer funds.

custodyimplicit-requirements-from-mtl-while
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
95%

Permissible Investments: O.C.G.A. § 7-1-686 requires licensees to maintain "permissible investments" (such as cash, government securities, etc.) with an aggregate market value at least equal to the aggregate amount of all outstanding money transmission obligations in Georgia. This ensures liquidity to cover customer claims, even if not strict asset-specific segregation.

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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
90%

The GDBF, in its supervisory role, would expect sound internal controls and accounting practices to clearly distinguish customer assets from company assets, regardless of explicit crypto-specific rules.

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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
95%

Surety Bond: Holders of a Georgia Money Transmitter License are required to obtain a surety bond.

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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
96%

Statutory Basis: O.C.G.A. § 7-1-683 outlines the application requirements, which include securing a surety bond.

custodystatutory-basis-ocga-7-1-683-outlines
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
97%

Amount: The minimum bond amount is typically $250,000, and it can be increased by the Commissioner based on the licensee's volume of money transmission activity, not to exceed $2,000,000.

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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
90%

The GDBF Advisory also references these bond requirements.

custodythe-gdbf-advisory-also-references
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
93%

No specific mandate for cold storage in Georgia's current laws or guidance.

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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
75%

Cold storage is no longer considered the primary industry best practice for securing digital assets under current Georgia cybersecurity regulations, which now emphasize multi-factor authentication and real-time monitoring.

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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No specific "qualified custodian" definition within Georgia state law for digital assets.

custodyno-specific-qualified-custodian-definition
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Verified Aug 23, 2026 Report Issue
40%

Federal Context: The term "qualified custodian" is primarily defined at the federal level by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under the Custody Rule (Rule 206(4)-2 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940). This rule applies to SEC-registered investment advisers and requires them to hold client funds and securities with a "qualified custodian."

custodyfederal-context-the-term-qualified
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40%

While Georgia doesn't have its own definition for crypto, if a firm operating in Georgia is also an SEC-registered investment adviser and custodies digital assets that are considered "securities," then the federal "qualified custodian" requirements would apply to that firm.

custodywhile-georgia-doesnt-have-its
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99%

A qualified custodian under federal law generally includes banks, savings associations, registered broker-dealers, and registered futures commission merchants. For digital assets, the application of this definition is complex and still evolving at the federal level.

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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
90%

As of my last update (early 2024), there is no specific, comprehensive digital asset custody legislation actively moving through the Georgia General Assembly that would create a distinct licensing framework or specific rules for digital asset custodians (like those seen in states such as Wyoming or New York).

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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
85%

Legislative activity often focuses on broader blockchain studies, pilot programs, or minor amendments to existing financial laws. However, the legislative landscape is dynamic, and it's always advisable to check the current session's legislative trackers (e.g., Georgia General Assembly website) for the latest information.

custodylegislative-activity-often-focuses-on
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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
95%

Consult the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance's official website and advisories.

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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue
90%

Seek legal counsel specializing in financial services and cryptocurrency regulation in Georgia to ensure full compliance, as interpretations and legislative efforts can evolve.

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Verified Aug 25, 2026 Report Issue

Stablecoin Regulation

80%

E-money Tokens (EMTs): Virtual assets that purport to maintain a stable value by referencing the value of one fiat currency. These are akin to electronic money and fall under the definition of "electronic money" as per MiCA if they meet certain criteria.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Asset-Referenced Tokens (ARTs): Virtual assets that purport to maintain a stable value by referencing any other value or right, or a combination thereof, including one or several official currencies, commodities, or other crypto-assets.

stablecoinasset-referenced-tokens-arts-virtual-assets
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Other Virtual Assets: If a stablecoin does not fit the EMT or ART definitions (e.g., an unbacked algorithmic stablecoin), it would generally be treated as a generic "virtual asset" under the LoVA, potentially making its issuance and operation much more difficult or impossible under the licensing regime for stablecoins, as the law focuses on asset-backed tokens. If it represents a share in a company or a debt instrument, it could fall under existing Georgian securities laws.

stablecoinother-virtual-assets-if-a
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (LoVA), Article 3: Defines "Virtual Asset," "Virtual Asset Service Provider," and references the classification consistent with MiCA.

stablecoinlaw-of-georgia-on-virtual
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

While an official English translation of the final enacted law is not immediately available from a Georgian government source, the bill version and numerous legal analyses confirm its MiCA alignment regarding ARTs and EMTs.

stablecoinwhile-an-official-english-translation
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Unofficial reference for context: PwC Legal Alert on LoVA (referencing the bill, final law is largely similar)

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Must be fully backed by fiat currency (e.g., Georgian Lari, USD, EUR) held in separate accounts in credit institutions.

stablecoinmust-be-fully-backed-by
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

The funds must be held in a way that is separate from the issuer's operating funds, ensuring segregation in case of issuer insolvency.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Investment of reserve funds must be in secure, low-risk assets.

stablecoininvestment-of-reserve-funds-must
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Must be backed by a sufficient, diversified, and segregated reserve of assets.

stablecoinmust-be-backed-by-a
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

The composition of the reserve assets must be resilient to market shocks and allow for redemption.

stablecointhe-composition-of-the-reserve
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

The assets must be held by custodians who are independent from the issuer and subject to strict regulatory oversight.

stablecointhe-assets-must-be-held
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Issuers must have clear and detailed policies for the stabilization mechanism.

stablecoinissuers-must-have-clear-and
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (LoVA), which empowers the National Bank of Georgia to issue detailed secondary legislation and regulations regarding reserve requirements for specific categories of virtual assets, especially those backed by fiat or other assets. (The general principles are embedded in the LoVA, with granular rules to follow from NBG).

stablecoinlaw-of-georgia-on-virtual
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Licensing Scope: Any entity wishing to issue ARTs or EMTs in Georgia must obtain a license from the NBG. This also applies to entities providing services related to these tokens (e.g., exchange, custody).

stablecoinlicensing-scope-any-entity-wishing
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Adequate capital requirements (to be set by NBG).

stablecoinadequate-capital-requirements-to-be
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Operational resilience and IT security.

stablecoinoperational-resilience-and-it-security
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Fit and proper criteria for management and shareholders.

stablecoinfit-and-proper-criteria-for
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Effective risk management systems, including AML/CFT compliance.

stablecoineffective-risk-management-systems-including
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Clear business plans and whitepapers for the stablecoins.

stablecoinclear-business-plans-and-whitepapers
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (LoVA), Chapter II, Article 7 onwards: Outlines the licensing requirements for Virtual Asset Service Providers, which includes issuers of stablecoins.

stablecoinlaw-of-georgia-on-virtual
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

The NBG will issue specific regulations detailing the application process, required documentation, and ongoing obligations.

stablecointhe-nbg-will-issue-specific
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Official NBG website (for future regulations): National Bank of Georgia

stablecoinofficial-nbg-website-for-future
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

E-money Tokens (EMTs): Holders generally have the right to redeem their tokens at par value for the underlying fiat currency from the issuer at any time.

stablecoine-money-tokens-emts-holders-generally
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Asset-Referenced Tokens (ARTs): Holders have the right to redeem their tokens from the issuer, either directly for the underlying reserve assets (or a portion thereof) or for a fiat equivalent, based on the terms outlined in the stablecoin's whitepaper and NBG regulations. The issuer must ensure sufficient liquidity in the reserve to meet redemption requests.

stablecoinasset-referenced-tokens-arts-holders-have
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (LoVA) implicitly supports redemption rights through its alignment with MiCA, which mandates such rights. Specifics will be detailed in NBG secondary legislation.

stablecoinlaw-of-georgia-on-virtual
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Unbacked Algorithmic Stablecoins: Stablecoins that rely solely on algorithms and arbitrage mechanisms to maintain their peg, without significant and verifiable asset backing, would likely not qualify as either EMTs or ARTs under the LoVA's definitions. This would make it extremely challenging, if not impossible, to obtain a license for their issuance or operation in Georgia as a regulated "stablecoin."

stablecoinunbacked-algorithmic-stablecoins-stablecoins-that
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

The focus of the LoVA and NBG regulations will be on stablecoins with robust, identifiable, and auditable reserve assets, thereby mitigating risks associated with highly volatile or collapsing algorithmic models.

stablecointhe-focus-of-the-lova
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Law of Georgia on Virtual Assets (LoVA), by defining ARTs and EMTs based on asset backing, implicitly excludes unbacked algorithmic stablecoins from these regulated categories, placing them in a regulatory gray area or making them unfeasible for licensed operation.

stablecoinlaw-of-georgia-on-virtual
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Project Status: In September 2023, the NBG announced the launch of a pilot project for the Digital Lari with private sector participants.

stablecoinproject-status-in-september-2023
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Nature: The Digital Lari, if fully implemented, would be a direct liability of the NBG, representing a digital form of the national currency. It would be fundamentally different from private stablecoins, which are liabilities of private issuers.

stablecoinnature-the-digital-lari-if
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Coexistence: A Digital Lari could coexist with regulated private stablecoins, offering an official, risk-free digital payment option alongside private sector innovations.

stablecoincoexistence-a-digital-lari-could
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Competition: It might also compete with stablecoins, especially those referencing the Georgian Lari (EMTs), by offering a more secure and trusted alternative.

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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

Regulatory Separation: The legal framework for a Digital Lari would likely be established under the NBG's powers related to currency issuance, separate from the LoVA which governs private virtual assets.

stablecoinregulatory-separation-the-legal-framework
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
80%

National Bank of Georgia Press Release on Digital Lari Pilot: NBG Launches Digital Lari Pilot Project (September 2023)

stablecoinnational-bank-of-georgia-press
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue

(1 more unverified fact(s) )

Securities Classification

70%

Cryptocurrency and digital asset securities in Georgia fall under the regulatory oversight of the National Bank of Georgia (NBG), which serves as the primary financial sector regulator, including for securities market activities Regulatory Framework.

securitiescryptocurrency-and-digital-asset-securities
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The legal framework is built on the Law of Georgia on Securities Market, which governs securities offerings, licensing of market participants, and ongoing compliance obligations LAW OF GEORGIA ON SECURITIES MARKET.

securitiesthe-legal-framework-is-built
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Licensing is available for securities market participants such as brokerage companies, securities registrars, asset management companies, and investment funds through NBG-issued orders and decrees Regulatory Framework.

securitieslicensing-is-available-for-securities
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No specific cryptocurrency or digital asset securities licenses have been publicly confirmed as granted by NBG as of the latest available official documentation, meaning the practical reality is that digital asset firms face uncertainty regarding applicability of existing securities rules Supervision.

securitiesno-specific-cryptocurrency-or-digital
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The National Bank of Georgia (NBG) is the primary financial sector regulator and has supervisory authority over commercial banks, banking groups, non-bank depository institutions, brokerages, independent securities registrars, asset management companies, central depositories, specialized depositories, founders of non-government pension schemes, stock exchanges, microfinance institutions, payment service providers, accountable enterprises, currency exchange bureaus, credit information bureaus, and lending entities Supervision.

securitiesthe-national-bank-of-georgia
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's regulatory mandate is derived from the Organic Law of Georgia on the National Bank of Georgia, which tasks the NBG with promoting financial stability and transparency of the financial sector, protecting the rights of consumers and investors, and promoting the stable and efficient functioning of the financial system Supervision.

securitiesthe-nbgs-regulatory-mandate-is
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Additional legal acts governing securities-related matters include Order N178/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia approving the list of recognized stock exchanges of foreign countries and rules related to public offerings of securities in Georgia by international financial institutions Regulatory Framework.

securitiesadditional-legal-acts-governing-securities-related
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG issues licenses for securities market participants, including "brokerage company" licenses, as governed by Order №145/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia on approval of the rule of licensing and regulating of a brokerage company Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-nbg-issues-licenses-for
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Independent securities registrars require licensing under Order N33/01 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia, which sets rules for licensing the securities registrar, submitting financial statements, determining the minimum amount of capital, and terminating activities of the securities registrar Regulatory Framework.

securitiesindependent-securities-registrars-require-licensing
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Asset management companies are subject to licensing, registration, recognition, and regulation under Decree №167/04 of September 22, 2020 of the Governor of the National Bank of Georgia, "On the Approval of the Rule on Licensing, Registration, Recognition and Regulation of an Asset Management Company" Regulatory Framework.

securitiesasset-management-companies-are-subject
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Investment funds require authorization, registration, recognition, and regulation under Decree №170/04 of September 22, 2020 of the Governor of the National Bank of Georgia, "On the Approval of the Rule on Authorization, Registration, Recognition and Regulation of an Investment Fund" Regulatory Framework.

securitiesinvestment-funds-require-authorization-registration
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Specialized depositaries must be approved under Decree №168/04 of September 22, 2020 of the Governor of the National Bank of Georgia, "On the Approval of the Rule of Activities of the Specialized Depositary" Regulatory Framework.

securitiesspecialized-depositaries-must-be-approved
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The organized market recognition process is set out in Order N33/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia, dated February 20, 2018, "On the Approval of the Rules for Recognition of the Financial Instruments Trading System as an Organized Market" Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-organized-market-recognition-process
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Investment fund unit owner registries must be maintained according to Order N169/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia, "On Approving the Rule for Keeping Registry of Investment Fund Unit Owners" Regulatory Framework.

securitiesinvestment-fund-unit-owner-registries
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's supervisory remit explicitly includes stock exchanges, brokerage firms, independent securities registrars, asset management companies, central depositories, and specialized depositories, all of which require appropriate licensing or registration Supervision.

securitiesthe-nbgs-supervisory-remit-explicitly
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The securities registrar must comply with reporting requirements for anti-money laundering and terrorist financing risk supervision as set out in Order №47/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-securities-registrar-must-comply
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Brokerage companies must comply with Order №48/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia on the approval of rules for completing reports and presenting information for the legalization of illicit income and terrorist financing risk supervision Regulatory Framework.

securitiesbrokerage-companies-must-comply-with
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

As of the latest available information from official NBG pages, no specific digital asset or cryptocurrency exchange has been publicly confirmed as having obtained a securities license from the NBG, and no dedicated virtual asset licensing regime has been published by the NBG Regulatory Framework.

securitiesas-of-the-latest-available
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Securities registrars in Georgia are required to complete reports and present information for the legalization of illicit income and terrorist financing risk supervision, as mandated by Order №47/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia Regulatory Framework.

securitiessecurities-registrars-in-georgia-are
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Brokerage companies must complete reports and present information for the legalization of illicit income and terrorist financing risk supervision under Order №48/04 of the President of the National Bank of Georgia Regulatory Framework.

securitiesbrokerage-companies-must-complete-reports
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Brokerage companies involved in trading with high-risk financial instruments are subject to additional regulation under Order N107/04 of the National Bank of Georgia, which implies enhanced scrutiny and potentially more stringent due diligence obligations Regulatory Framework.

securitiesbrokerage-companies-involved-in-trading
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's sanction framework under Order N35/04 includes violations of the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating of the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism," which covers AML compliance obligations for securities market participants Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-nbgs-sanction-framework-under
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG has the authority to determine, impose, and enforce monetary penalties against entities and members of their governing bodies for violations of securities legislation, the Law of Georgia "On Accounting, Reporting and Auditing," and the Law of Georgia "On Facilitating of the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism," as outlined in Order N35/04 Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-nbg-has-the-authority
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's enforcement and penalty framework for securities legislation violations is established under Order N35/04 of the President of the National Bank, which outlines rules for determining, imposing, and enforcing monetary penalties against entities and members of their governing bodies for violations of securities legislation and related laws Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-nbgs-enforcement-and-penalty
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No publicly reported enforcement actions specifically involving digital asset securities or cryptocurrency firms in Georgia were identified in the provided source materials Regulatory Framework.

securitiesno-publicly-reported-enforcement-actions
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No tax guidance has been issued for virtual assets.

securitiesno-tax-guidance-has-been
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The provided source materials from the National Bank of Georgia do not contain any specific tax treatment provisions or guidance for cryptocurrency or digital asset securities Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-provided-source-materials-from
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The existing securities regulatory framework in Georgia does not explicitly address digital assets or cryptocurrency securities, creating uncertainty regarding whether and how these instruments fall under the Law of Georgia on Securities Market LAW OF GEORGIA ON SECURITIES MARKET.

securitiesthe-existing-securities-regulatory-framework
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

No dedicated virtual asset service provider (VASP) licensing regime or specific digital asset regulatory framework has been published by the NBG, meaning businesses dealing in digital asset securities in Georgia face legal uncertainty Regulatory Framework.

securitiesno-dedicated-virtual-asset-service
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's enforcement powers under Order N35/04 exclusively apply to violations under securities legislation, accounting rules, and AML/CFT law, but do not explicitly address digital asset-specific violations Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-nbgs-enforcement-powers-under
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

High-risk financial instruments regulation via Order N107/04 may potentially capture certain digital asset trading activities conducted by brokerage companies, but the scope of application remains unclear without explicit digital asset definitions Regulatory Framework.

securitieshigh-risk-financial-instruments-regulation-via
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG's list of supervised entities does not explicitly include virtual asset exchanges or digital asset custodians, creating a supervisory gap for crypto-related businesses Supervision.

securitiesthe-nbgs-list-of-supervised
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

For a business seeking to operate a digital asset securities platform in Georgia, the lack of explicit regulatory clarity means that firms must make their own assessments as to whether their operations constitute "securities market" activity requiring a license under the Law of Georgia on Securities Market LAW OF GEORGIA ON SECURITIES MARKET.

securitiesfor-a-business-seeking-to
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The NBG has no documented track record of licensing or supervising digital asset-specific entities, which means that the practical reality of obtaining regulatory approval for a digital asset securities business in Georgia is untested and potentially subject to significant regulatory delays or refusals Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-nbg-has-no-documented
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

The regulatory framework for securities in Georgia does not mention "digital assets," "cryptoassets," "virtual currencies," "tokens," or "blockchain" in any of the publicly listed legal acts on the NBG's regulatory framework page, representing a significant gap in the legislative framework Regulatory Framework.

securitiesthe-regulatory-framework-for-securities
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue
70%

Because Georgia's securities laws have not yet clarified the treatment of digital assets, there is a risk that a digital asset classified as a security under Georgian law would be subject to the full securities regulatory framework designed for traditional instruments, including prospectus requirements, licensing of intermediaries, and ongoing disclosure obligations LAW OF GEORGIA ON SECURITIES MARKET.

securitiesbecause-georgias-securities-laws-have
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Verified Aug 30, 2026 Report Issue

Sanctions & Restrictions

Sanctions data collection in progress.

Regulatory Forecast

high confidence

Likely new licensing requirements expected around 2026-09-08

Based on 55 historical regulatory events for Georgia, averaging every 131 days, with decreasing regulatory activity.

Trend: Decreasing Data points: 55 Avg frequency: 131 days Last action: 2026-04-30

Recent Updates

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
medium GLOBAL

Regulator/Enforcement Body: Investigative Committee of Armenia, Prosecutor General's Office of Armenia, often in ...

Regulator/Enforcement Body: Investigative Committee of Armenia, Prosecutor General's Office of Armenia, often in cooperation with law enforcement agencies from other countries (e.g., Russia, Georgia, US).

enforcement
2026-04-22(4 months ago)
medium GE

Federal Context: The term "qualified custodian" is primarily defined at the federal level by the U.S. Securities ...

Federal Context: The term "qualified custodian" is primarily defined at the federal level by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under the Custody Rule (Rule 206(4)-2 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940). This rule applies to SEC-registered investment advisers and requires them to hold client funds and securities with a "qualified custodian."

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
low GE

Legislative activity often focuses on broader blockchain studies, pilot programs, or minor amendments to existing fin...

Legislative activity often focuses on broader blockchain studies, pilot programs, or minor amendments to existing financial laws. However, the legislative landscape is dynamic, and it's always advisable to check the current session's legislative trackers (e.g., Georgia General Assembly website) for the latest information.

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
high GE

National Bank of Georgia (NBG): The central bank is the sole licensing and supervisory authority for VASPs in Geo...

National Bank of Georgia (NBG): The central bank is the sole licensing and supervisory authority for VASPs in Georgia.

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
medium GE

Unregistered Offerings: Issuing tokens deemed securities without proper registration or an applicable exemption i...

Unregistered Offerings: Issuing tokens deemed securities without proper registration or an applicable exemption is a violation. The DBF would issue cease-and-desist orders, levy fines, and seek injunctive relief.

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
medium GE

Unlicensed Broker-Dealer Activity: Individuals or entities acting as broker-dealers for security tokens without p...

Unlicensed Broker-Dealer Activity: Individuals or entities acting as broker-dealers for security tokens without proper state registration would be subject to enforcement.

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
high GE

Georgia Department of Banking and Finance (DBF) - Securities Division: This is the primary regulatory body respon...

Georgia Department of Banking and Finance (DBF) - Securities Division: This is the primary regulatory body responsible for administering and enforcing Georgia's securities laws. While they generally don't issue crypto-specific guidance beyond applying existing law, their website provides information on securities registration, exemptions, and compliance.

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
high GE

National Bank of Georgia (NBG): This is the primary regulator responsible for the licensing, supervision, and reg...

National Bank of Georgia (NBG): This is the primary regulator responsible for the licensing, supervision, and regulation of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). The NBG issues secondary legislation (rules, decrees) to implement the VASP law.

2024-03-01(2 years ago)
high GE

Licensing is Mandatory: As of March 1, 2024, entities operating as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in Geo...

Licensing is Mandatory: As of March 1, 2024, entities operating as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in Georgia are required to obtain a license from the National Bank of Georgia (NBG). This includes:

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
high GE

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Operating as a VASP without a license can lead to significant penalties, including ...

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Operating as a VASP without a license can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential criminal charges.

enforcement View article →
2026-04-22(4 months ago)
high GE

Individual Trading: The VASP Law primarily targets service providers. Individual participation in virtual asset t...

Individual Trading: The VASP Law primarily targets service providers. Individual participation in virtual asset trading for personal use is not banned, but individuals engaging with unlicensed VASPs do so at their own risk. All transactions with licensed VASPs, however, will be subject to the VASP's AML/CFT procedures.

2026-04-22(4 months ago)
medium GE

The amendments to Georgia's AML/CFT Law bringing VASPs under its scope became effective earlier.

The amendments to Georgia's AML/CFT Law bringing VASPs under its scope became effective earlier.

2026-04-30(4 months ago)
medium GE

Manual Exemption (O.C.G.A. § 10-5-10(10)): Securities are exempt if current issuer information is published in re...

Manual Exemption (O.C.G.A. § 10-5-10(10)): Securities are exempt if current issuer information is published in recognized securities manuals (e.g., Moody's, S&P), though less common for emerging crypto projects Manual Exemption

2026-04-30(4 months ago)
medium GE

Unregistered Offerings: Issuing tokens deemed securities without registration or exemption violates state law. Th...

Unregistered Offerings: Issuing tokens deemed securities without registration or exemption violates state law. The DBF can issue cease-and-desist orders, levy fines, and seek injunctive relief Unregistered Offerings Enforcement

enforcement View article →
2026-04-30(4 months ago)
low GE

Legislative Activity: Georgia's legislative landscape regarding crypto focuses on broader blockchain studies and ...

Legislative Activity: Georgia's legislative landscape regarding crypto focuses on broader blockchain studies and minor amendments to existing financial laws, though the landscape remains dynamic Georgia Crypto Legislation

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