Not What you Think- CBI Meeting
Not What you Think- CBI Meeting
Edu Matrix: 12-15-2025
In a landmark move, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) recently convened the inaugural session of the Supreme National Committee for Virtual Assets Regulation, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards embracing and regulating the rapidly evolving landscape of digital assets.
Chaired by CBI Governor Ali Mosen Alak, this multidisciplinary committee brings together senior representatives from various sectors, including regulatory, legal, financial, supervisory, scientific, technical, and communications bodies.
During the meeting, the committee took a thorough approach to understanding the global trends in digital assets and benchmarking international regulatory models. The focus was on striking a balance between fostering financial innovation and ensuring monetary and financial stability. Key areas of discussion included:
Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating Financing (CTF) standards: Ensuring that digital assets are not used for illicit activities.
Cyber risk management: Protecting consumers and financial institutions from cyber threats.
Consumer protection: Safeguarding the interests of individuals investing in digital assets.
Clear definitions and classifications of digital assets: Establishing a clear understanding of the digital asset landscape.
The committee emphasized a gradual and flexible regulatory approach, aiming to enhance transparency, improve service efficiency, and create a secure licensing environment that encourages innovation.
This initiative is part of Iraq’s broader government strategy, led by the Central Bank, to build a modern, safe, and sustainable digital financial ecosystem. The goals are multifaceted:
Preparing Iraq’s financial system for rapid technological advances: Ensuring the country’s financial infrastructure is equipped to handle the changing landscape.
Harmonizing with international financial standards: Aligning Iraq’s financial regulations with global best practices.
Promoting financial inclusion: Expanding access to financial services for all citizens.
Bolstering confidence in the banking sector: Strengthening trust in the financial system.
Safeguarding Iraq’s monetary sovereignty: Protecting the country’s financial independence in the face of a growing global digital economy.
The inaugural session of the Supreme National Committee for Virtual Assets Regulation represents a significant step forward in Iraq’s efforts to responsibly regulate the evolving landscape of virtual assets. By taking a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, Iraq is poised to create a secure and innovative financial ecosystem that promotes financial inclusion and safeguards the country’s monetary sovereignty.
As the world continues to navigate the complexities of digital assets, Iraq’s proactive approach serves as a model for other countries to follow.
As Iraq embarks on this new journey, it is clear that the country is committed to harnessing the potential of digital assets while minimizing the associated risks.
With a clear regulatory framework and a multidisciplinary approach, Iraq is well-positioned to become a leader in the region’s digital economy. As we watch this space, it will be interesting to see how Iraq’s regulatory framework evolves and how it impacts the country’s financial landscape.