Over the last $18$ months, the landscape of blockchain technology has undergone significant transformations, marked by regulatory changes and advancements globally and within South Africa. Internationally, regulatory bodies have intensified their focus on cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, aiming to strike a balance between fostering innovation and protecting consumers. Notably, the European Union has advanced its comprehensive Markets in Crypto$-$Assets $($MiCA$)$ regulation, setting a precedent for regulatory clarity around digital assets. Concurrently, the United States has seen regulatory agencies, including the SEC and CFTC$,$ heightening scrutiny and enforcement actions against crypto businesses, emphasizing the need for investor protection and financial stability.

In South Africa, the regulatory environment has also evolved to better accommodate and oversee the burgeoning blockchain sector. The South African Reserve Bank $($SARB$)$ has been proactive in examining the implications of cryptocurrencies and blockchain for financial stability, monetary policy, and compliance with existing financial regulations. Notably, the Intergovernmental Fintech Working Group $($IFWG$)$ published a position paper on crypto assets, recommending a phased approach to regulation, which includes implementing an anti$-$money laundering$/$counter$-$terrorism financing $($AML$/$CTF$)$ framework and establishing a licensing and supervisory regime for crypto asset service providers.

These regulatory shifts reflect a growing acknowledgment of the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize various sectors$,$ including finance, supply chain management, and governance, while also recognizing the risks associated with its use. In South Africa and globally, the aim is to create a regulatory framework that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship in the blockchain space while ensuring consumer protection, market integrity, and financial stability. This evolving regulatory landscape signifies a maturing market for blockchain and digital assets, poised for greater adoption and integration into mainstream financial systems.

$2\mathrm{.}1.$

You are the senior manager in a financial institution, responsible for client onboarding and small business support. Formulate an integrated operational plan to effectively utilise blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies as solution to extent your client base and to ensure optimal use of scarce resources. $(25)$

$2\mathrm{.}2.$

Meticulously advise your small business clients on the legislative and regulatory challenges and considerations that ought to be implemented and monitored with the extended use of smart contracts and NTFs$.(25)$