28/09/25
Seychelles has long been a preferred jurisdiction for offshore exchanges and fintech ventures due to its flexible corporate structures and favourable tax environment. However, recent regulatory scrutiny highlights significant compliance obligations that operators cannot afford to overlook. Understanding these risks is essential for businesses seeking legal certainty and operational stability.
๐ Regulatory Framework โ Seychellesโ Financial Services Authority (FSA) regulates securities, investment, and crypto-related activities under the Securities Act 2007 and the Financial Services Authority Act 2013. Companies must obtain the appropriate licenses for exchange operations, maintain strict AML/KYC procedures, and submit periodic reports to ensure adherence to local laws. Failure to comply may trigger fines, license revocation, or criminal liability.
โ๏ธ Comparative Analysis โ While Seychelles offers less onerous registration processes than jurisdictions such as Malta or the Cayman Islands, the FSA has increasingly aligned its oversight with international standards, including FATF recommendations. This alignment means that offshore exchanges face growing pressure to demonstrate transparency, risk management, and strong anti-money laundering controls comparable to onshore peers.
๐ผ Sector Impact โ Practical implications include heightened due diligence for international investors, mandatory reporting for token listings, and stricter corporate governance requirements. For instance, exchanges operating without a valid FSA licence risk asset freezes and reputational damage, which has prompted many operators to seek legal guidance before establishing Seychelles entities.
๐ In summary, Seychelles remains an appealing jurisdiction for offshore exchanges, but operators must navigate complex compliance obligations. Legal counsel is critical to avoid regulatory pitfalls and ensure operational continuity. NUR Legal provides expert guidance for entities seeking to establish or operate exchanges within Seychelles while meeting all statutory requirements. Visit us at NUR-Legal.com or contact us directly at info@nur-legal.com
Emil Korpinen
