Cryptoasset Anti-Financial Crime Specialist (CCAS) Certification Practice Test

Which business model would be considered a virtual asset service provider (VASP) under FATF's definition?

1. A company that develops smart contracts which can be used to offer financial products and services

2. A corporation that offers the safekeeping of cryptoassets as its main product

3. A group of developers who write code for a decentralized, distributed software

4. An e-commerce company that stores its own cryptoassets

The correct answer is: A corporation that offers the safekeeping of cryptoassets as its main product

The designation of a virtual asset service provider (VASP) under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) definition includes entities that provide services related to virtual assets, particularly those that involve the management, exchange, or safekeeping of these assets. A corporation that offers the safekeeping of cryptoassets as its main product fits this definition precisely, as it actively engages in the custody or management of virtual assets on behalf of clients. This involvement in the safekeeping of cryptoassets implies that the corporation is providing a service that is directly related to virtual assets and is likely subject to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations. Such services also generally entail a risk of exposure to financial crime, making adherence to these regulations essential. The other options, while related to the technology and development of virtual assets, do not engage primarily in the provision of services that qualify them as VASPs. For instance, companies that develop smart contracts or write code for decentralized software focus more on the creation of technology rather than providing custodial services or management of virtual assets. E-commerce companies storing their own cryptoassets might not be viewed as VASPs unless they facilitate transactions or offer services to other users concerning those assets