Paxos to issue USD stablecoin in Singapore, wins initial approval

Crypto infrastructure firm Paxos has secured in-principle approval from Singapore’s regulator for a new entity that’s planning the launch of a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin.

In a Nov. 15 statement, Paxos said it received an initial nod from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for its new entity Paxos Digital Singapore Pte. Ltd. The new firm can offer digital payment token services and plans to issue a USD stablecoin cleared under the MAS’ proposed stablecoin regulations.

Upon receiving full approval, Paxos said it will be able to partner with enterprise clients to issue the stablecoin in Singapore.

“Global demand for the U.S. dollar has never been stronger, yet it remains difficult for consumers outside the U.S. to get dollars safely, reliably and under regulatory protections,” said Paxos head of strategy Walter Hessert. “This in-principle approval from the MAS will allow Paxos to bring its regulated platform to more users around the world.”

On Aug .15, MAS announced its final framework for regulating stablecoins aimed at non-bank issued tokens pegged to the value of the Singapore dollar or G10 currencies such as the euro, British pound and U.S. dollar and whose circulation exceeds 5 million Singapore dollars ($3.7 million).

On Aug. 7, PayPal launched its USD-backed stablecoin — PYUSD — issued by Paxos. 

Paxos formerly minted Binance’s now-defunct BUSD stablecoin but was ordered by the New York Department of Financial Services to cease issuance of the token after the agency declared the stablecoin an unregistered security. 

Paxos clarified that all of its stablecoins are fully backed by the U.S. dollar and cash equivalents, adding that it issues monthly attestations and reserve reports to ensure compliance.