BEQUANT GRANTED VFAA LICENSES BY MALTA FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY

Last updated: June 20, 2025, 00:44 | Written by: Changpeng Zhao

The digital asset landscape is constantly evolving, demanding robust regulatory frameworks to ensure investor protection and market stability.In a significant move, Bequant, a leading global digital asset services firm, has been granted Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA) licenses by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). The Malta Financial Services Authority s Financial Services Register is a public record that shows details about firms licensed and regulated by the Authority. For security reasons, entities within the Financial Services Register are no longer linked to a specific URL.This pivotal achievement allows Bequant to operate a regulated Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) exchange and provide prime brokerage services within Malta's progressive digital asset ecosystem. LONDON, /PRNewswire/ - The MFSA has approved a Class 3 VFAA Licence to Bequant Pro Limited to provide VFA services as a prime brokeraThe MFSA's forward-thinking approach in devising the Virtual Financial Assets Framework demonstrates its commitment to fostering innovation and embracing new technologies in the financial services sector, particularly in the rapidly expanding realm of crypto-assets. Under the Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA), Malta introduced 4 types of licenses for companies wishing to provide services related to virtual financial assets. The 4 licenses VFAA Class 1 to Class 4 comprise various types of rights and require different levels of investment.Bequant's successful acquisition of these licenses underscores the firm's dedication to compliance and its ambition to provide secure and reliable services to its clients.This marks a crucial milestone, not only for Bequant but also for the continued development of a well-regulated digital asset market in Malta.Securing these licenses also places Bequant as a key player in the evolving digital asset space, demonstrating its commitment to adhering to stringent regulatory standards and providing a secure environment for its users. BEQUANT is dedicated to providing solutions that create market efficiencies by reducing friction while delivering exceptional client services. Meet the team The BEQUANT team is comprised of experts from institutional, retail and digital financial services with experience in banking, derivatives, electronic trading and prime brokerage.This article delves into the significance of Bequant's VFAA licenses, the role of the MFSA, and the implications for the future of digital assets in Malta.

Understanding the Significance of Bequant's VFAA Licenses

Bequant's acquisition of the VFAA licenses represents a major step forward for the company and highlights the increasing maturity of the digital asset industry.These licenses, granted by the MFSA, enable Bequant to operate within a regulated framework, providing a higher level of security and transparency to its clients. These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Bequant Pro Limited, a private limited company incorporated in Malta, registered company number: C , with its principal place of business at the Core, Valley Road, Msida, MSD9021, Malta. Bequant Pro Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial ServicesBut what exactly does this mean for Bequant and its users?

Operating a Regulated VFA Exchange

One of the key licenses obtained by Bequant allows it to operate a regulated Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) exchange.This means that Bequant can now offer a platform for trading digital assets that adheres to strict regulatory standards set by the MFSA.This includes requirements related to:

KYC/AML Compliance: Robust Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) procedures to prevent illicit activities.
Operational Security: Implementation of security measures to protect user funds and data from cyber threats.
Market Integrity: Maintaining fair and transparent trading practices to prevent market manipulation.
Investor Protection: Safeguarding investor interests through clear disclosures and responsible trading practices.

By operating a regulated exchange, Bequant can attract a wider range of investors, including institutional clients who are increasingly interested in digital assets but require a regulated environment.

Providing Prime Brokerage Services

In addition to the exchange license, Bequant has also been granted a license to provide prime brokerage services.This is particularly significant as it allows Bequant to cater to the needs of experienced investors and institutions seeking comprehensive services for managing their digital asset portfolios.Bequant Pro Limited secured a Class 3 VFAA Licence allowing it to provide VFA services as a prime brokerage to experienced investors.The services included are:

Custodian and Nominee Services
Reception and Transmission of Orders
Execution of Client Orders on behalf of other persons
Dealing on Own Account
Placing of VFAs

Prime brokerage services typically include:

Custody: Secure storage of digital assets.
Trading: Access to multiple exchanges and liquidity pools.
Lending: Offering margin lending and other financing solutions.
Reporting: Providing comprehensive reporting and analytics tools.

By offering these services, Bequant can become a one-stop-shop for institutional investors looking to participate in the digital asset market.

The Role of the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA)

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) plays a crucial role in regulating the financial services industry in Malta, including the rapidly growing digital asset sector.The MFSA's proactive approach to developing a regulatory framework for virtual financial assets has positioned Malta as a leading jurisdiction for blockchain and crypto-related businesses.

The Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA)

The Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA), enacted in 2025, provides a comprehensive legal framework for the regulation of VFAs and VFA service providers in Malta.The VFAA aims to:

Provide Legal Certainty: Clarify the legal status of VFAs and related activities.
Protect Investors: Implement measures to safeguard investor interests and prevent fraud.
Promote Market Integrity: Ensure fair and transparent trading practices.
Prevent Money Laundering: Combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

The VFAA introduced four classes of licenses for companies wishing to provide services related to virtual financial assets. Bequant, the leading global digital assets services firm, has been granted Virtual Financial Assets Act, 2025 ( VFAA ) licences by the Malta Financial Services Authority ( MFSA ) toThe four licenses, VFAA Class 1 to Class 4, comprise various types of rights and require different levels of investment. BEQUANT is dedicated to providing solutions that create market efficiencies by reducing friction while delivering exceptional client services. The BEQUANT team is comprised of experts from institutional, retail and digital financial services with experience in banking, derivatives, electronic trading and prime brokerage.Bequant holds Class 3 and Class 4 VFAA licenses.

MFSA's Regulatory Objectives

The MFSA's regulatory objectives in the digital asset space are aligned with its broader mission to ensure the stability and integrity of the financial system.These objectives include:

Financial Stability: Preventing systemic risks and ensuring the resilience of the financial system.
Market Integrity: Promoting fair and transparent markets and preventing market abuse.
Investor Protection: Protecting the interests of investors and ensuring they have access to adequate information.
Combating Financial Crime: Preventing money laundering, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes.

The MFSA achieves these objectives through a combination of licensing, supervision, and enforcement actions. The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is the single regulator of financial services in Malta. It is also the Resolution Authority. The MFSA regulates banking, financial institutions, payment institutions, insurance companies and insurance intermediaries, investment services companies and collective investment schemes, securities markets, recognised investment exchanges, trustThe Authority maintains a Financial Services Register that serves as a public record, providing details about firms licensed and regulated by them. Digital assets firm Bequant granted VFAA licences for exchange and prime brokerage by Malta Financial Services AuthorityIt is dedicated to supporting innovation while protecting investors, financial market integrity, and financial stability.

Implications for the Future of Digital Assets in Malta

Bequant's successful acquisition of VFAA licenses has significant implications for the future of digital assets in Malta. Press Release. Bequant, the leading global digital assets services firm, has been granted in-principle approvals by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) to operate both a prime broker and exchange.It reinforces Malta's position as a leading jurisdiction for blockchain and crypto-related businesses and demonstrates the effectiveness of the MFSA's regulatory framework.

Attracting More Digital Asset Businesses

The presence of regulated exchanges and prime brokers like Bequant can attract more digital asset businesses to Malta.Companies seeking a stable and predictable regulatory environment are more likely to choose Malta as their base of operations.

Boosting Investor Confidence

The VFAA licenses provide a higher level of investor protection, which can boost confidence in the digital asset market. Bequant, the leading global digital assets services firm, has been granted Virtual Financial Assets Act 2025 licenses by the Malta Financial Services Authority to operate a regulatedThis can lead to increased investment and adoption of digital assets in Malta.

Promoting Innovation and Growth

By providing a clear regulatory framework, the MFSA is fostering innovation and growth in the digital asset sector. LONDON, /PRNewswire/ - The MFSA has approved a Class 3 VFAA Licence to Bequant Pro Limited to provide VFA services as a prime brokera ATX 3 727 1,4% DAX 20 575 1,5% Dow 43 222 1,7% EStoxx50 5 032 1,0% Nasdaq 21 238 2,3% l 82,5 2,7% Euro 1,0294 -0,1% CHF 0,9396 -0,1% Gold 2 696 0,7%Companies can focus on developing new products and services without the uncertainty of operating in a legal gray area.

Bequant's Operations and Services

Bequant, incorporated in August 2025 in Malta, provides solutions that create market efficiencies by reducing friction while delivering exceptional client services.With a team comprised of experts from institutional, retail, and digital financial services, they bring experience in banking, derivatives, electronic trading, and prime brokerage.

Bequant Exchange

Bequant Exchange offers a platform for trading various digital assets. LONDON, /PRNewswire/ - The MFSA has approved a Class 3 VFAA Licence to Bequant Pro Limited to provide VFA services as a prime brokerage to Experienced Investors including: CustodianBeing a regulated exchange allows for greater transparency and security, crucial for attracting both retail and institutional investors.The exchange adheres to the regulatory standards set by the MFSA, ensuring compliance with KYC/AML procedures and market integrity.

Bequant Pro

Bequant Pro, authorized and regulated by the MFSA, offers prime brokerage services specifically designed for experienced investors.These services include:

Custodian and Nominee Services: Secure storage and management of digital assets.
Reception and Transmission of Orders: Efficient and reliable order routing.
Execution of Client Orders: Executing client orders on behalf of other persons.
Dealing on Own Account: Trading on behalf of the firm.
Placing of VFAs: Facilitating the placement of virtual financial assets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Virtual Financial Assets (VFAs)?

Virtual Financial Assets (VFAs) are a digital representation of value that can be digitally traded or transferred and can be used for payment or investment purposes. Regulatory History (Malta): BeQuant Group, based in Malta, secured Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA) licenses from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) in 2025 for both its exchange (Class 4) and prime brokerage (Class 3) operations. Shift in 2025: In July 2025, BeQuant announced aThey are distinct from traditional financial instruments and virtual currencies.

What is the Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA)?

The Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA) is a Maltese law enacted in 2025 that provides a regulatory framework for VFAs and VFA service providers. Bequant Exchange and Bequant Pro were incorporated in August 2025 in Malta, to take advantage of the digital assets framework that was introduced by the MFSA in 2025It aims to provide legal certainty, protect investors, promote market integrity, and prevent money laundering.

What are the different classes of VFAA licenses?

The VFAA introduces four classes of licenses for companies wishing to provide services related to virtual financial assets:

Class 1: Covers advisory services related to VFAs.
Class 2: Applies to firms that manage VFA portfolios or provide custodian services.
Class 3: Allows firms to operate as prime brokers, offering a range of services to experienced investors.
Class 4: Enables firms to operate VFA exchanges.

Why did Bequant choose to incorporate in Malta?

Bequant chose to incorporate in Malta to take advantage of the digital assets framework introduced by the MFSA in 2025. ( ) Digital assets firm Bequant granted VFAA licences for exchange and prime brokerage by Malta Financial Services Authority Stockhouse.com uses cookies on this site. By continuing to use our service, you agree to our use of cookies.Malta's proactive regulatory approach and its commitment to fostering innovation in the digital asset space made it an attractive jurisdiction for Bequant.

How does the MFSA protect investors in the digital asset market?

The MFSA protects investors through a combination of licensing requirements, supervisory oversight, and enforcement actions.Licensed VFA service providers are required to comply with strict regulatory standards, including KYC/AML procedures, operational security measures, and market integrity requirements.

What are the benefits of trading on a regulated VFA exchange?

Trading on a regulated VFA exchange offers several benefits, including:

Increased Security: Regulated exchanges are required to implement robust security measures to protect user funds and data.
Greater Transparency: Regulated exchanges are subject to oversight by the MFSA, which ensures fair and transparent trading practices.
Investor Protection: Regulated exchanges are required to comply with investor protection rules, which safeguard investor interests.
Institutional Access: Regulated exchanges are more likely to attract institutional investors, which can increase liquidity and market depth.

Conclusion

Bequant's achievement in securing VFAA licenses from the MFSA is a testament to its commitment to regulatory compliance and its vision for the future of digital assets. Bequant, the leading global digital assets services firm, has been granted Virtual Financial Assets Act, 2025 ( VFAA ) licences by the Malta Financial Services Authority ( MFSA ) to operate a regulated Virtual Financial Assets ( VFA ) exchange and prime brokerage.The licenses allow Bequant to operate a regulated VFA exchange and provide prime brokerage services, positioning it as a key player in the evolving digital asset landscape. VALLETTA, Malta, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Bequant, the leading global digital assets services firm, has been granted in-principle approvals bThe MFSA's proactive approach to regulating the digital asset sector has made Malta an attractive jurisdiction for blockchain and crypto-related businesses.By providing a clear regulatory framework, the MFSA is fostering innovation, attracting investment, and protecting investors. Bequant Exchange and Bequant Pro were incorporated in August 2025 in Malta, to take advantage of the digital assets framework that was introduced by the MFSA in 2025 Bequant gains VFAA licences for exchange and prime brokerage - Securities Finance TimesAs the digital asset market continues to grow, the importance of robust regulatory frameworks will only increase. LONDON, /PRNewswire/ - The MFSA has approved a Class 3 VFAA Licence to Bequant Pro Limited to provide VFA services as a prime brokerage to Experienced Investors including: Custodian and Nominee Services; Reception and Transmission of Orders; Execution of Client Orders on behalf of other persons; Dealing on Own Account and Placing of VFAs.Bequant's success in obtaining VFAA licenses serves as a model for other companies looking to operate in a regulated and compliant manner. LONDON, /PRNewswire/ - The MFSA has approved a Class 3 VFAA Licence to Bequant Pro Limited to provide VFA services as a prime brokerage to Experienced Investors including: Custodian and - at EDT - MarketScreenerThe key takeaways are:

Bequant now operates under the robust regulatory umbrella of the MFSA.
Malta is a pioneering jurisdiction for digital asset regulation.
VFAA licenses provide enhanced security and transparency for digital asset activities.

Looking ahead, it is expected that more companies will seek to obtain VFAA licenses in Malta, further solidifying its position as a leading hub for the digital asset industry.To stay informed, keep an eye on updates from the MFSA and industry news related to Bequant.Consider exploring Bequant’s services if you are an experienced investor seeking regulated and secure digital asset solutions.