Definition ∞ Crypto securities are digital assets classified as financial securities under existing regulatory frameworks. This classification depends on whether a digital asset meets the legal definition of an investment contract, often determined by tests like the Howey Test in the United States, which assesses expectations of profit from the efforts of others. If deemed a security, these assets are subject to stringent regulations concerning issuance, trading, and disclosure requirements, similar to traditional stocks or bonds. This distinction is critical for compliance and investor protection.
Context ∞ The regulatory status of various digital assets as crypto securities remains a central and contentious discussion point globally. Jurisdictions are actively developing or refining their approaches to determine which tokens fall under securities law, leading to significant legal challenges and policy debates. This situation directly impacts how digital assets are offered, traded, and reported on, influencing market participation and innovation.
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