Binance, a major cryptocurrency exchange, said on Thursday that it appointed Steven McWhirter as its new Director of Regulatory Policy. According to the press release, McWhirter comes from the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ) and will lead the exchange’s global regulatory policy team.
He has over 20 years of experience in financial services and regulation, both as a supervisor and policymaker. The FCA hired him after he spent over 9 years at the Gambling Commission working in regulatory compliance .
In his most recent position at the FCA, McWhirter was the Strategy and Engagement Manager for the Data, Technology and Innovation division. In addition to leading policy working groups focused on the UK, EU and other countries, he worked on the FCA’s crypto guidance. Through GFIN, a global network of more than 75 regulators and observers, he supported innovation in financial services.
“Regulation is regarded as an important and necessary component in the lifecycle of all innovative sectors. My efforts will support Binance by ensuring that the regulatory global compliance is enhanced in tandem with crypto and blockchain innovation. Leading Binance’s regulatory policy team will allow me to leverage my experience as a former conduct regulator to create a sustainable crypto ecosystem with consumer protection and market integrity at its heart,” McWhirter commented.
Moreover, Binance issued the following statement: “Serving as Binance’s first Director of Regulatory Policy, Steven will oversee a world-class regulatory policy team and ensure that Binance meets the regulatory obligations to the highest standard. Additionally, Steven will work closely with industry leaders, policymakers and regulators globally to contribute to the development of a sustainable regulatory framework.”
Binance.US License in Puerto Rico
Recently, Binance.US obtained a Money Transmitter License from the Puerto Rico Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions. So far in 2022, Binance.US has secured a Money Transmitter License in 4 jurisdictions, including West Virginia, Connecticut, Wyoming and now Puerto Rico. The digital asset firm has expanded its presence across the region significantly over the past few months.
