The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) has implemented the second and final phase of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Providing Money Services (PMS) framework, completing the transition to the new regulatory regime for money service providers. The phase that takes effect from 13 January 2026 introduces requirements focused on client protection and cyber and operational resilience. Client protection provisions cover complaints handling, mandatory content for client agreements, safeguarding of client money, and information and communication requirements. The resilience package includes requirements on cybersecurity policies, incident reporting, IT audit, and strong customer authentication. AFSA adopted the overall PMS framework on 13 April 2025 with a two-phase transitional period, with the first phase effective from 13 October 2025 introducing definitions, capital requirements, and provisions on the use of digital assets in money services; the regime is implemented through a new Rule on Providing Money Services and amendments to several AIFC rules, including the General Rules, Glossary, Conduct of Business Rules, Banking Business Prudential Rules, and Rules on Digital Asset Activities.
Astana Financial Services Authority 2026-01-13
Astana Financial Services Authority brings second and final phase of AIFC Providing Money Services framework into force
The Astana Financial Services Authority has completed the transition to the new regulatory regime for money service providers with the final phase of the Astana International Financial Centre Providing Money Services framework, effective 13 January 2026. This phase introduces client protection and cyber and operational resilience requirements, following the initial phase that established definitions, capital requirements, and digital asset provisions.