Broker-Dealer Rules

Definition ∞ Broker-dealer rules are regulations that govern entities acting as intermediaries in financial markets, facilitating the buying and selling of securities. These rules typically mandate registration, capital requirements, record-keeping, and conduct standards to protect investors and ensure market integrity. They define the obligations and restrictions placed upon firms that broker transactions or trade securities for their own account.
Context ∞ The application of broker-dealer rules to digital assets is a significant area of regulatory focus globally. Jurisdictions are actively determining whether certain digital assets qualify as securities and, consequently, whether platforms facilitating their trading must adhere to existing broker-dealer frameworks. This ongoing regulatory evaluation directly impacts the operational viability and compliance strategies of cryptocurrency exchanges and other digital asset service providers, influencing market accessibility and participant trust.