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SEC Sets August 31 Deadline for Online Investment Platforms to Register or Face Sanctions

 SEC, InvestmentThe Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has directed all firms operating online investment and trading platforms in Ghana to register their platforms with the regulator by August 31, 2026, warning that failure to comply could result in regulatory sanctions, including the suspension or revocation of licences.

The directive, contained in a statement issued on June 23, 2026, applies to all licensed market operators, financial technology (FinTech) companies, and any individual or entity offering investor-facing online investment or trading services.

According to the SEC, existing securities market regulations require every licensed market operator that owns or operates an investment technology platform used to carry out regulated activities to obtain separate registration and approval for each platform.

The Commission said non-compliance may lead to regulatory action, including the revision, amendment, suspension or revocation of operating licences where necessary.

The SEC clarified that the requirement extends beyond traditional market operators to FinTech companies whose digital platforms facilitate activities regulated under Ghana's securities laws.

All these firms must obtain the appropriate registration and/or licence of the platform from the regulator,” the Commission stated.

The regulator also directed that any person or entity—including licensed market operators—operating an online investment application or trading platform that has not been approved, licensed or registered by the SEC must immediately cease offering such services.

The Commission urged the investing public to exercise caution by verifying the authenticity of investment products and digital platforms promoted through traditional and online media using the SEC's official communication channels before investing.

It also encouraged operators requiring clarification on the new directive to engage the Commission for guidance on the registration process.

Exemptions

The SEC noted that the directive does not apply to certain technology solutions that do not directly provide investment or trading services to the public.

These exempted platforms include ancillary back-office systems used solely for reporting, reconciliation and monitoring; transaction screening systems and regulatory technology (RegTech) solutions for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing compliance; online investor reporting and complaints portals; and educational platforms used exclusively for investor education.

The directive forms part of the SEC's broader efforts to strengthen oversight of Ghana's rapidly growing digital investment ecosystem, enhance investor protection and ensure that online investment platforms operate within the country's regulatory framework.

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