New DSI Registry for Cryptocurrencies Under Development
In brief
- New registry for professionals who provide information or advice to clients about cryptoassets.
- Developed in response to the ESMA guidelines on professional competence under MiCA.
- Learning objectives developed in collaboration with industry specialists and approved by the DSI Accreditation Committee.
- Training providers can develop courses based on these learning objectives and submit them for accreditation.
- The registry is scheduled to open in early 2027.
New Registry Enables Demonstration of Professional Competence Under MiCA
DSI is developing a new registry for professionals who inform or advise clients on crypto-assets. This initiative stems from the European guidelines issued by ESMA, which are based on the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The registry offers crypto-asset service providers an independent way to document the professional competence of their employees. DSI plans to launch it in early 2027.
New European Requirements for Knowledge and Professional Competence
With MiCA, there is, for the first time, a single European regulatory framework for crypto-asset service providers (CASP). ESMA has published specific guidelines for this purpose, which will take effect in 2026. Organizations must not only be able to demonstrate that their employees possess the appropriate knowledge and skills, but also that they keep those skills up to date. In this way, ESMA aims to better protect investors and establish a single, clear standard across Europe.
Developed in collaboration with the industry
A specially convened DSI Advisory Committee, composed of professionals who work with cryptoassets and related services on a daily basis, has determined what knowledge and skills are necessary to responsibly inform or advise clients.
The independent DSI Accreditation Committee then reviewed and approved these learning objectives. The committee ensures that degree programs are aligned with professional practice and meet quality standards.
Training providers can register training programs
The learning objectives have now been shared with the training providers. They can use these to develop training programs and submit them to the DSI Accreditation Committee for review. Once accredited, these training programs prepare professionals for inclusion in the registry. DSI monitors the quality of these programs, just as it does for the existing ESMA registries and specialist registries.
The registry is expected to become operational in early 2027
In doing so, DSI will fulfill a role for the crypto sector similar to the one it currently plays for professionals in the investment sector. DSI previously spoke with industry professionals about how it can help ensure professional competence.
Is your organization interested in participating in the registry, or would you like to learn more about its development? If so, please contact DSI.
