2013-05-16

Added · Updated

Definition and Authorization of Exchange Institutions

The Financial Supervision Act (Wft) prohibits pursuing the business of an exchange institution without appropriate authorization from De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). An exchange institution is defined as an entity performing exchange transactions, which include currency exchanges and the payment of coins and banknotes upon presentation of credit cards or specific documents such as cheques and money orders. DNB is responsible for issuing these authorizations and supervising the institutions.

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On 1 July 2012, the Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht or Wft) was amended to include a prohibition to pursue the business of an exchange institution without appropriate authorisation. De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) may issue such authorisation if requested and is responsible for the supervision of exchange institutions.

Published: 16 May 2013

The Wft defines an exchange institution as one that pursues the business of performing exchange transactions. Exchange transaction is itself defined as (a) a currency exchange transaction, (b) the payment of coins and banknotes upon presentation of a credit card or against delivery of a document as referred to in Section 1:5a (2), under g, of the Wft, such as paper cheques, including traveller's cheques, postal or money orders etc. Both concepts are defined in Section 1:1 Wft.

Related law and regulations

Wft 1:1 (Refers to an external site)

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