ASIC Puts Crypto and AI on Watchlist in 2026 Outlook

Crypto News Regulation

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: January 27, 2026

Key Takeaways

ASIC labels crypto, AI finance, and payments as sectors testing the limits of Australia’s financial laws;
The 2026 Outlook focuses on unlicensed activity and unclear regulation rather than crypto prices;
ASIC aims to clarify licensing rules and strengthen oversight where the law remains uncertain.

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ASIC Puts Crypto and AI on Watchlist in 2026 Outlook

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The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) said new technologies like crypto, AI-driven finance, and digital payments are testing the edges of existing financial laws.

According to the Key Issues Outlook 2026, the ASIC described these industries as “regulatory perimeter” risks, areas where businesses may operate beyond traditional oversight.

The paper outlines ASIC's plans for dealing with crypto and other tech-based financial products in the coming year.

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Unlike previous warnings focused on token prices or volatility, ASIC’s report centers on the legal framework. It highlights the dangers of companies offering financial services without proper licenses, misleading customers, or exploiting gaps in current regulations.

Digital assets were mentioned alongside AI-powered finance tools and new payment systems. ASIC said these technologies often sit outside current rules, creating uncertainty about which activities fall under regulatory supervision.

The regulator explained that deciding whether new crypto products should require licenses is ultimately a government responsibility. For 2026, ASIC’s focus will be on keeping licensing rules clear and improving oversight in areas close to the regulatory edge.

It also noted that some firms deliberately stay outside the law to avoid compliance, which adds to confusion about what is and isn’t regulated.

ASIC wrote, "Some entities will actively seek to remain outside regulation, contributing to perceived regulatory uncertainty".

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