Definition ∞ Financial conduct rules are regulations that govern the behavior and operations of financial firms and individuals to ensure fair and transparent markets. These rules aim to protect consumers, prevent market abuse, and maintain confidence in the financial system by dictating standards for business practices, disclosures, and ethical conduct. They cover areas such as client communication, product suitability, and conflict of interest management. Adherence to these guidelines is mandatory for entities operating within regulated financial sectors.
Context ∞ The application of financial conduct rules to digital asset markets is a key area of focus for regulators globally, seeking to extend consumer protections and market integrity standards to new technologies. Debates persist regarding how existing rules apply to novel crypto products and services, leading to calls for tailored regulatory frameworks. Compliance with these evolving standards is a significant operational challenge for digital asset businesses seeking legitimacy and broader adoption.