Australian Securities and Investments Commission Extends Digital Asset License Transition Period to End of September This Year

the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has announced an extension of the "no-action" position for digital asset enterprises under the new licensing framework, overall extended to September 30, 2026. During this period, digital asset companies providing financial services can continue to apply for or modify Australian Financial Services (AFS) licenses, and a new operating model is permitted, allowing operations through authorized representatives or intermediary authorization arrangements of AFS licensees. The extension also applies to institutions that need to apply for a market license or a Clearing and Settlement (CS) license. Relevant entities must notify ASIC in writing of their intention to apply and conduct pre-meeting communications. ASIC stated that since the update of INFO 225 guidance in October 2025, it has received approximately 30 license applications from digital asset enterprises.