Crypto foreign money influencers to stand sanctions with out SEC, BoG authorisation – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefDecember 22, 20254 Mins read100
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Ghana Prepares to Sanction Crypto Influencers Without SEC or BoG Authorization
Introduction
The landscape of digital finance in Ghana is undergoing a significant transformation. As cryptocurrency adoption grows, so does the need for regulatory oversight. According to recent announcements by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Ghana, individuals and influencers promoting digital assets will soon face strict sanctions if they operate without proper authorization. This move is part of a broader effort to sanitize the crypto ecosystem, protect investors, and align Ghana’s financial sector with international standards. This article explores the new requirements, the legal framework, and what this means for crypto advocates in the region.
Key Points
- Regulatory Mandate: The SEC and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) are enforcing a requirement for authorization before any crypto-related promotion.
- Target Audience: This specifically affects influencers, financial advocates, and digital asset service providers.
- Legal Framework: The directives stem from the Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, passed in December 2025.
- Consequences: Failure to comply will result in sanctions and potential legal action, including arrests.
- Timeline: The law is currently awaiting presidential assent, with full operationalization expected in 2026.
Background
Cryptocurrency and digital assets have seen a surge in popularity in Ghana, mirroring global trends. However, this rapid growth has brought challenges, including market volatility, fraud, and a lack of consumer protection. Recognizing these risks, the Ghanaian government has been working on a legislative framework to bring order to the “Wild West” of finance.
The Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Bill, popularly referred to as the “Crypto Bill,” was passed by Parliament on December 19, 2025. This legislation marks Ghana’s first comprehensive legal structure designed to regulate the digital asset space. The primary goal is to ensure that the growing crypto economy contributes positively to the financial system rather than undermining it.
On December 22, 2025, Deputy Director-General of the SEC, Mensah Thompson, addressed stakeholders at the National Virtual Asset Literacy Program. His speech clarified that the regulatory body is moving from a passive observer to an active regulator. The focus is on creating a safe environment for investors while allowing the technology to flourish.
Analysis
The announcement represents a pivotal shift in how digital currency advocacy is treated in Ghana. Previously, the crypto space operated largely without oversight, allowing influencers to offer advice and promote tokens freely. Under the new regime, this autonomy is removed.
The Scope of “Advocacy”
The SEC’s definition of “advocacy” is broad. It covers social media promotion, financial advice on specific coins, and the management of digital tools related to crypto. This implies that a celebrity or social media influencer cannot simply post about a specific token’s potential for high returns without facing regulatory scrutiny. The intent is to curb the “pump and dump” schemes and misleading advertisements that have plagued the industry globally.
Sanctions and Enforcement
Mr. Thompson emphasized that the rules are not merely theoretical. The SEC is prepared to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to enforce the law. He stated, “If you do so, law enforcement agencies will arrest you, and sanctions will apply.” This suggests that unauthorized crypto promotion could be treated as a criminal offense rather than just a civil violation, carrying risks of fines or imprisonment.
Combating Financial Crime
Beyond consumer protection, the legislation aims to fight financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing. By requiring authorization, the SEC and BoG can monitor the flow of funds and ensure that Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols.
Practical Advice
If you are an influencer, content creator, or financial advisor operating in the Ghanaian crypto space, here are the steps you should take to remain compliant:
1. Assess Your Activity
Determine if your content falls under “promotion,” “advertising,” or “management” of digital assets. If you are paid to tweet about a coin, run a Telegram group giving trading signals, or manage a crypto portfolio for others, you are likely affected.
2. Contact the Relevant Authority
Depending on your specific focus, you must reach out to either the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Bank of Ghana (BoG).
- Contact the SEC if your activities relate to securities-like tokens or investment advice.
- Contact the BoG if your activities relate to payment processing or broader financial stability issues.
3. Await the Operational Roadmap
As of late 2025, the VASP Bill is awaiting presidential assent. The SEC has indicated that a detailed roadmap for operationalization will be released soon. Do not wait for the final date; use this time to prepare your documentation and business plans.
4. Prioritize Investor Education
The regulators have stressed the importance of literacy. If you are seeking authorization, demonstrate that your promotional activities include risk disclosures. Highlighting the volatility of the market (as noted by Mr. Thompson) shows that you understand the regulatory requirements for responsible advocacy.
FAQ
What is the Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill?
The VASP Bill is a piece of legislation passed by the Ghanaian Parliament in December 2025. It establishes the first legal framework for regulating digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, in Ghana.
Do I need authorization to talk about Bitcoin on social media?
If your posts are general educational discussions, you may not need authorization. However, if you are endorsing specific coins, offering performance advice, or managing assets for others, you are required to seek authorization from the SEC or BoG.
What happens if I promote crypto without authorization?
According to the SEC Deputy Director-General, you risk sanctions and arrest by law enforcement agencies. The penalties are designed to be punitive to deter unauthorized financial activities.
When will these regulations take full effect?
The bill was passed in December 2025 and is currently awaiting the President’s assent. The SEC plans to conduct public education campaigns throughout 2026 before the law becomes fully operational.
Why is Ghana regulating crypto now?
The regulation aims to sanitize the financial environment, protect investors from volatility and fraud, and prevent money laundering and terrorist financing associated with unregulated digital assets.
Conclusion
Ghana is entering a new era of financial regulation regarding digital currencies. The message from the Securities and Exchange Commission is clear: the era of unregulated crypto advocacy is ending. By mandating authorization from the SEC and the Bank of Ghana, authorities aim to create a safer, more transparent market. For influencers and financial advocates, the path forward requires compliance, transparency, and a commitment to responsible financial education. Adhering to these new guidelines is not just a legal necessity but a vital step in building trust in Ghana’s burgeoning digital economy.
Sources
- Life Pulse Daily / MyJoyOnline. (2025, December 22). Crypto currency influencers to stand sanctions without SEC, BoG authorisation.
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Ghana. (2025). National Virtual Asset Literacy Program Statements.
- Bank of Ghana (BoG). (2025). Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill Framework.
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