TronWeekly

Crypto World News

You are here: Home / Search for "cryptocurrency regulation"

Search Results for: cryptocurrency regulation

Panama Proposes New Law for Crypto Payments and Industry Regulation

by

  • Panama has introduced a draft bill that would regulate cryptocurrency, establish licensing for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), and integrate blockchain into government processes.
  • The bill aims to attract crypto companies like Binance, PayPal, and Coinbase by creating a legal framework, that would allow them to operate directly in the country and contribute to economic growth.

Panama has introduced a new draft bill to help regulate all crypto assets and also support blockchain growth. The proposal aims to position the country as a fintech leader in the whole of Latin America.

The bill contains various rules for legalizing the voluntary use of cryptocurrency for payments, setting rules for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), and also using blockchain to improve government operations.

Panama’s Draft Bill for Crypto and Blockchain Regulation

Panama is moving toward regulating cryptocurrency while boosting the country’s digital economy. The new bill, which was introduced by the Substitute Representative Gabriel Solis, is set to provide legal clarity and establish license and capital requirements for all virtual asset service providers (VASPs), while also creating a supervisory body. The bill would also create an incentive for all crypto businesses and allow people to use digital assets for payments.

While helping citizens in the country, it would also enable the government to use blockchain for property records, tax collection, and identity verification. Previously, Panama had no clear legal stance on crypto assets, which exposed users to risks. If the bill gets approved, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum could become recognized payment options, provided both parties agree. 

The bill also mandates VASPs to register in a national database and comply with Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) rules. All bodies who do not comply could face penalties. This move aligns Panama with countries like the USA and Chile in embracing crypto adoption.

Panama currently doesn’t have any legal regulations for crypto companies like Binance, PayPal, and Coinbase, preventing them from operating directly with citizens in the country. Due to this, residents must use third-party apps for all crypto-related transactions. The bill states that once the new regulations are approved, these companies will be able to set up branches in Panama, which would also act as a revenue for creating jobs and boosting the economy.

Related Reading | Market Veteran Peter Brandt Predicts XRP’s Next Big Move—Bull or Bear?

FDIC Eases Crypto Banking Regulation, Marking a Major Policy Shift

by

  • FDIC’s FIL-7-2025 permits banks to operate in the crypto space without any prior approval, replacing FIL-16-2022.
  • Criticizing restrictive policies, Acting Chairman Travis Hill described them as vague and not promoting innovation in digital assets.
  • FDIC urges banks to operate crypto risks corresponding to SEC regulatory measures.

David Sacks, the White House’s cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence director, commended the FDIC’s latest move, stating that it significantly facilitates banks’ participation in cryptocurrency activities. He emphasized that allowing banks to engage in crypto-related ventures would help mainstream digital assets, making them more accessible to the broader financial system.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) issued new guidance on March 28, stating that it can engage in crypto-related activities without prior permission as long as safety and soundness standards are met. The announcement, published as Financial Institution Letter (FIL-7-2025), rescinds FIL-16-2022, signaling a significant shift in policy.

Crypto Innovation Gains Regulatory Support

Acting FDIC Chairman Travis Hill highlighted that the agency is moving away from prescriptive policies that were smothering innovation. He noted that the previous approach was unclear, which at times left banks uncertain about regulatory expectations. The FDIC is trying to develop a more formal framework for banks to participate in blockchain and cryptocurrency-related activities.

The agency stated that it will work with the President’s Working Group on Financial Markets to issue additional guidelines. Bo Hines, Executive Director of the Presidential Working Group on Digital Assets Markets, called the decision “a huge step forward toward innovation and adoption.” The new stance reflects a broader effort to modernize regulatory policies for financial institutions.

Crypto industry insiders referred to the previous limits as being a component of ‘Operation Chokepoint 2.0,’ an alleged Biden administration effort to strangle crypto innovation. Hill criticized such efforts as opaque, stating that they discouraged banks from participating in legitimate crypto activities by using non-public enforcement actions.

Future Implications and Industry Concerns

In a January speech, Hill acknowledged that the FDIC had not issued clear public guidance but had engaged in informal interventions. He referred to over 20 instances of banks being asked to halt or slow down digital assets activities without rulemaking or public comment. He called for a reconsideration of financial compliance enforcement across institutions.

Hill also made it clear that Bank Secrecy Act compliance is not to be used as a reason to deny people access to banking services. FDIC internal discussions were said to have focused on allowing banks to follow tokenized deposits and blockchain-based financial infrastructure without unnecessary regulatory hurdles. The step aligns the FDIC with other regulators, such as the SEC, that are developing formal regulatory frameworks.

The FDIC also highlighted that banks must also address risks related to market volatility, cybersecurity, consumer protection, and anti-money laundering. The agency advised institutions to coordinate with their supervisory teams when venturing into crypto-related activities to ensure compliance with regulatory expectations. 

The announcement aligns with broader government efforts to promote financial innovation. Not everyone was positive, though. Some predicted economic volatility, and others queried the sudden policy shift. Barring reservations, the FDIC’s action has the potential to unlock tremendous capital inflows into digital assets as banks revisit their strategy on digital assets.

Read More: FDIC Eases Crypto Regulations, In a Bold Move to Empower Banks

Paul Atkins’ SEC Confirmation Could Transform Crypto Regulations

by

  • Paul Atkins’ confirmation could reshape crypto regulations, aligning with Trump’s pro-crypto stance and SEC’s policy shift.
  • SEC, under Mark Uyeda, has dropped lawsuits against Coinbase, Uniswap, Robinhood Crypto, OpenSea, and Kraken.
  • Trump signed an executive order for a strategic Bitcoin reserve, possibly expanding to altcoins like XRP.

US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman nominee Paul Atkins will appear before the Senate Banking Committee for his long-awaited confirmation hearing on March 27. The committee will assess Atkins’ suitability as a replacement for Gary Gensler and evaluate other pro-crypto nominations crucial to the sector’s future.

GmhHLo6akAEknvN
Source: X

Trump’s Influence on Crypto Regulations Grows

Along with Atkins, the Senate panel will consider confirming Jonathan Gould to serve as head of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). OCC oversees U.S. national banks and is hence a crucial institution for cryptocurrency firms that are hoping to gain access to stable banks. The panel will also consider confirming Luke Pettit for assistant Treasury assistant.

Atkins is a staunch supporter of digital assets. He has managed a Washington-based advisory firm that advises clients on financial compliance. His recruitment is in line with President Donald Trump’s move to establish a pro-crypto environment and maintain the pace that has been set since Trump’s return to office.

Trump appointed Atkins to replace former SEC Chairman Gary Gensler, whose tenure was defined by enforcement action against cryptocurrency firms. Already, Acting SEC Chairman Mark Uyeda has relaxed Gensler’s enforcement position by dropping lawsuits and halting pending enforcement action. This action signals a more amicable regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency firms.

SEC Drops Lawsuits Against Crypto Firms

Since he took office on January 20 as interim SEC chairman, Mark Uyeda has overseen major developments in cryptocurrency regulation. Several lawsuits against cryptocurrency firms have been dismissed, starting with Coinbase and extending to Uniswap, Robinhood Crypto, OpenSea, and Kraken. Dismissal of those lawsuits is a sign of a gentler regulatory stance.

The SEC’s Ripple case also has received a mark of closure, hence lifting a dreadful legal weight off Atkins in the process, if confirmed. Furthermore, Trump issued a new executive order that opened up the option of a reserve Bitcoin to be held strategically. There is talk amongst industry leaders that the prospective legislation may include altcoins such as XRP as well, as there is more likely to be a supple view for cryptos from the government.

Atkins seems poised to continue along the path of progressive policymaking toward the crypto ecosystem. Assuming these expectations, upon confirmation, the new American capital regulation would be more welcoming to institutional players hoping to enter the market. The upcoming hearing will determine whether he is appointed to his position and confirm a future of pro-crypto policies for the SEC.

Read More: SEC May Drop Ripple Appeal, Awaiting Leadership Shift for Judgment Decision

Indian Authorities Select CoinDCX to Manage Seized Cryptocurrency Assets

by

  • India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has selected CoinDCX to manage seized cryptocurrency assets
  • CoinDCX has implemented strict security measures, including multi-signature and multi-party computation (MPC) wallets, and has deployed a specialized team to make sure there’s compliance and protection of the seized assets.

India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has chosen CoinDCX, the country’s largest crypto exchange, to handle confiscated digital assets. 

Through this partnership, CoinDCX will help offer a secure system to store and manage these funds, ensuring there is enough compliance and safety. 

CoinDCX Takes Charge of India’s Seized Crypto Assets

India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has chosen CoinDCX, the nation’s largest crypto exchange, to oversee all the seized cryptocurrency wallets in the country. 

 According to an announcement shared with Cryptonews, this decision comes as authorities intensify efforts to combat financial crimes involving cryptocurrency with recent major cases including the GainBitcoin and BitConnect scams, where nearly $200 million in digital assets were seized.

As part of this partnership, the exchange will provide a secure system to store and manage these assets. The exchange has already implemented strict security measures, including multi-signature and multi-party computation (MPC) wallets, to ensure protection.

They’ve also set up a dedicated team to oversee security and compliance, reinforcing the exchange’s commitment to maintaining trust in the crypto industry.

Sumit Gupta, co-founder of CoinDCX, emphasized the importance of this responsibility, stating that the exchange is committed to supporting law enforcement by offering top-tier security and compliance solutions. 

Assistant Director at the Enforcement Directorate Parneet Kumar also acknowledged the exchange’s cooperation in the seizure process, highlighting its role in ensuring legal compliance and opening of necessary custodian accounts.

This collaboration strengthens India’s regulatory approach to crypto-related crimes, ensuring that confiscated digital assets are securely managed while investigations continue. As cryptocurrency use rises in India, regulators are always trying to increase efforts to safeguard investors and prevent any illegal activities. 

CoinDCX, recognized for its strong security, compliance, and focus on investor safety, continues to lead in the industry. The company is committed to building a more safe, transparent, and regulation-friendly Crypto space in the country.

Related Reading | XRP’s Next Move: Soaring to $5 or Crashing Below $2?

 

The Rise of Cryptocurrency in the Gambling Industry

by

The online gambling industry is rapidly evolving, and one of the key trends in recent years has been the active adoption of cryptocurrencies. More and more casino operators and betting platforms are adding support for digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and others. This trend is driven by several factors, including transaction convenience, user anonymity, and enhanced security levels.

Key Reasons for the Rise of Crypto Gambling

1. Speed and Low Fees

One of the main advantages of using cryptocurrencies in gambling is the speed of transactions. Unlike traditional bank transfers or card payments, crypto transactions often take just a few minutes. Moreover, transaction fees are significantly lower compared to traditional financial instruments.

2. Anonymity and Privacy

Cryptocurrency use allows players to maintain anonymity. Unlike bank cards, there is no need to enter personal information, making the gaming process more private. This is particularly relevant for users who wish to keep their gambling activities confidential.

3. Global Accessibility

Cryptocurrencies are independent of banking infrastructure and national restrictions, making them an ideal payment method for players in countries where access to traditional gambling payment methods may be limited.

4. Enhanced Security

Thanks to blockchain technology, cryptocurrency payments are protected against fraud and hacking. This increases trust among players, as they can be confident in the transparency and fairness of transactions.

Popular Cryptocurrencies in Gambling

The most popular digital assets in gambling include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC) — the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, widely used in online casinos and betting.
  • Ethereum (ETH) — enables transparent and automated gaming processes through smart contracts.
  • Litecoin (LTC) — known for fast transactions and low fees.
  • Tether (USDT) — a stable cryptocurrency (stablecoin) that minimizes volatility risks.

The Future of Crypto Gambling

Interest in cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology in gambling will only continue to grow. In the future, we can expect the emergence of new decentralized gaming platforms utilizing smart contracts to ensure fair play. Additionally, the number of casinos accepting cryptocurrencies will increase, and traditional operators will need to adapt to the new reality.

Furthermore, with the development of regulations, crypto gambling will become more legalized, potentially attracting more players and investments into the industry.

Conclusion

The use of cryptocurrencies in gambling is not just a trend but a new reality shaping the future of the industry. Players benefit from anonymity, low fees, and fast transactions, while operators expand their audience and reduce costs. In the coming years, we can expect even greater adoption of crypto gambling, making online gaming more convenient and secure.

Bank of America CEO Confirms Plans for USD-Pegged Stablecoin If Regulations Permit

by

  • Bank of America plans a USD-pegged stablecoin pending regulatory approval.
  • CEO Brian Moynihan confirms the bank’s readiness to enter the stablecoin market.
  • U.S. stablecoin legislation could enable major banks to issue digital assets.

Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan says the bank is prepared to introduce its own USD-pegged stablecoin if federal legislation allows it. Speaking at The Economic Club of Washington, D.C., he stated that regulatory clarity would determine the bank’s entry into the stablecoin market.

According to Moynihan, stablecoins’ stability mirrors money market funds and traditional banking functionality because they are major components in transactional activities. Stablecoins currently dominate market use, but their mainstream adoption by banks will require a well-defined regulatory system.

Regulatory Landscape and Market Expansion

The United States observes rising discussions around stablecoin regulatory control. The chair of the Senate Banking Committee, Tim Scott, plans to work on advancing stablecoin legislation in the first 100 days of Donald Trump’s presidency. Such approval would enable major financial institutions like Bank of America to launch their own stablecoin operations.

PayPal became the latest payment firm to join the stablecoin market with the launch of PYUSD in 2023. Traditional banks recognize stablecoins as promising, with the current market exceeding $232 billion. Furthermore, JPMorgan Chase and other financial institutions started employing blockchain technology for payment operations in 2020.

Bank of America’s Investment in Digital Technology

The Bank of America maintains substantial investments in digital technology and tools. Moynihan disclosed that Bank of America dedicates $4 billion annually to innovative efforts alongside $9 billion spent annually to operate its technological infrastructure. Digital transformation is the bank’s primary focus as customers now use digital and mobile channels for their interactions, which amounts to 90%.

Bank of America continues to operate from nearly 3,700 branches nationwide while aiming to advance its digital banking initiatives. According to Moynihan, estate management and financial planning require human interaction through in-person banking because technology does not fully resolve all financial challenges.

Growing Institutional Interest in Cryptocurrency

Traditional financial institutions are re-evaluating their digital asset policies as regulatory changes in the industry. For instance, JPMorgan expanded its blockchain-based payment network at the same time Standard Chartered tested Mastercard’s Multi-Token Network for digital transactions.

According to Moynihan, the bank holds multiple blockchain patents, which demonstrates how it could advance into cryptocurrency when receiving regulatory clearance.

Lawmakers’ progress in creating specific regulation frameworks for stablecoins motivates major banks to prepare for digital asset integration. As regulations pass to allow its launch, Bank of America’s introduction of its stablecoin will transform the financial sector.

Kraken Eyes Indian Market Revival Amid Tougher Crypto Regulations

by

  • Kraken is preparing to re-enter the Indian market by securing necessary licenses.
  • The company has appointed Vishesh Khurana as an advisor for local operations.
  • Khurana is also leading a $250 million India-focused fund at Tribue Capital.

San Francisco-based cryptocurrency exchange Kraken is preparing to re-enter the Indian market. The company is working on obtaining the necessary licenses to resume operations in compliance with local regulations. It has appointed Vishesh Khurana as an advisor to lead its local operations and facilitate engagement with Indian authorities.

Kraken Taps Vishesh Khurana for India Strategy

Vishesh Khurana, co-founder of Shiprocket, advises Kraken as it prepares to re-enter India. He continues to expand his investment portfolio, having joined Silicon Valley-based Tribue Capital to lead its first India-focused alternative investment fund. The fund, valued at $250 million, is part of the firm’s broader $1.6 billion investment portfolio.

Despite his transition to venture capital, Khurana remains an advisor at Shiprocket, a logistics startup valued at $1.2 billion. Shiprocket is preparing for an IPO, while Khurana continues his role as an active angel investor. He has invested in over 50 early-stage startups, including Jimmy’s Cocktail, Arata, and UrbanPiper.

His involvement with Kraken aligns with his broader investment interests in India’s fintech and crypto sectors. The exchange aims to leverage his expertise in business scaling and regulatory navigation. His advisory role will accelerate Kraken’s licensing process and engagement with local authorities.

India’s FIU Cracks Down on Crypto Exchanges

Kraken was among several foreign exchanges banned in India due to non-compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. The country’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) took action against offshore exchanges for failing to meet taxation and compliance requirements. Authorities had previously issued notices for unpaid Goods and Services Tax (GST) amounting to $345 million from seven platforms, including Kraken.

Kraken must comply with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and other financial laws to resume operations. Several crypto exchanges, including Binance and KuCoin, have already obtained clearance from the FIU to re-enter the market. Kraken plans to follow a similar process to secure approvals and ensure a smooth return.

Indian regulators remain focused on tightening compliance frameworks for digital assets. The government has emphasized that foreign crypto firms must adhere to strict taxation policies. Kraken’s ability to align with these requirements will determine the success of its re-entry into the Indian market.

Coinbase and Kraken Plan India Comeback

Kraken’s plans come as other global exchanges explore ways to re-enter India’s growing crypto market. Coinbase has also initiated discussions with Indian regulators about complying with local laws before resuming operations. The regulatory landscape is evolving, with exchanges adapting to stricter compliance measures.

The Indian government continues to refine its policies on cryptocurrency taxation and reporting. The latest budget proposal includes classifying virtual digital assets as undisclosed income, and increasing tax obligations for crypto holders. These measures follow the existing 30% tax on crypto earnings and anti-money laundering regulations introduced earlier.

Global trends and evolving policies in major markets influence India’s stance on digital assets. Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth acknowledged that India is reassessing its approach to crypto regulation. The government aims to balance innovation and financial security while monitoring international regulatory developments.

Congress Charts New Course for Crypto Regulation in Watershed Hearing 

by

The stakes for America’s crypto future hung in the air as lawmakers grilled experts on February 11, 2025, during a landmark House Financial Services Committee hearing. At the center of the debate: how to harness blockchain technology’s revolutionary potential without repeating past regulatory missteps. With the U.S. cryptocurrency market projected to hit $9.4 billion in revenue this year and nearly 100 million users at play, the hearing marked a turning point in Washington’s approach to digital assets.  

The numbers tell a compelling story. While 28% of Americans now engage with crypto platforms, decentralized gaming has evolved to offer unprecedented variety and accessibility. Leading platforms now feature over 450 games from providers like Darwin and Pragmatic Play, with support for major cryptocurrencies including USDT, ETH, BNB, MATIC, and BTC (Source: coinpoker.com/crypto-casino). This regulatory ambiguity has persisted.

This uncertainty hasn’t stopped institutional investors from pouring into the market, driving up asset prices but also exposing gaps in consumer safeguards. Steil’s proposed STABLE Act aims to address these issues head-on, creating the first federal framework for payment stablecoins. “We’re not just catching up – we’re building the gold standard,” he asserted in a press release this Tuesday.  

Subcommittee Chairman Bryan Steil (R-WI) set the tone with a blistering critique of previous policies. “The Biden Administration’s enforcement-first strategy didn’t protect consumers – it drove innovation overseas and left our citizens vulnerable,” he stated, referencing multiple cases where conflicting agency actions created a regulatory minefield. His remarks underscored a growing bipartisan consensus that America risks losing its financial technology edge to the EU and UK without urgent action.  

Behind the political rhetoric lies a fundamental shift in strategy. The Trump administration’s early moves – repealing the SEC’s controversial SAB 121, initiating executive orders on digital assets, and establishing White House working groups – suggest a regulatory reboot. FDIC’s ongoing review of crypto banking rules and the SEC’s new compliance pathways signal agencies are finally rowing in the same direction.  

“This isn’t about partisan wins,” stressed David Sacks, the administration’s Crypto Czar, during a recent press briefing. “When 96 million Americans use crypto and our market leads globally, we need rules that protect people without stifling the ingenuity driving this $9.4 billion engine.” His comments reflect the delicate balance lawmakers seek between innovation and oversight – particularly for platforms blending finance with emerging technologies like online gaming and AI-driven trading.  

The hearing’s expert witnesses painted a vivid picture of what’s at stake. One blockchain developer testified about relocating to Singapore after facing “regulatory whiplash” under previous policies. A consumer advocacy group countered with sobering fraud statistics, emphasizing that clear rules protect legitimate businesses and users alike. Through it all, a recurring theme emerged: America’s crypto future hinges on replacing bureaucratic turf wars with collaborative frameworks.  

As the debate shifts from whether to regulate to how, industry leaders are cautiously optimistic. The STABLE Act’s focus on payment systems and wallet providers – rather than blanket crypto bans – suggests lawmakers finally grasp blockchain’s nuanced potential. With user penetration rates plateauing at 28%, the pressure is on to craft policies that reassure mainstream adopters while keeping pace with tech advances.  

For everyday Americans, the implications are tangible. Faster cross-border payments, reduced transaction fees, and innovative financial tools all feature in the blockchain promise. But as the hearing made clear, realizing this potential requires something Washington has struggled to provide: regulatory clarity that evolves as quickly as the technology itself.  

With the 2025 revenue projections matching the GDP of small nations and institutional money flooding in, the clock is ticking. As Steil concluded: “We’re not just writing rules – we’re drafting the blueprint for America’s financial future.” How well Congress threads this needle may determine whether the next crypto unicorn is born in Silicon Valley – or Shanghai.

The path forward hinges on viewing regulation not as shackles, but as guardrails enabling responsible experimentation. Analysts predict blockchain’s next frontier – decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) governing everything from community solar projects to AI research collectives – could add $1.2 trillion to U.S. GDP by 2030 if nurtured. Yet without frameworks addressing smart contract liabilities or algorithmic governance, these innovations risk becoming regulatory orphans. 

As crypto grows from a speculative asset to societal infrastructure powering voting systems and carbon credit markets, lawmakers face a stark choice: Will America’s ruleset mirror the static rigidity of railroad-era statutes, or embrace the adaptive precision of open-source code? The answer could determine whether blockchain becomes the next internet – or the next subprime mortgage crisis.

SEC and CFTC Explore Strategic Collaboration to Strengthen Crypto Regulation

by

  • SEC and CFTC aim to revive a joint committee for clearer crypto regulation.
  • Brian Quintenz’s CFTC appointment signals a pro-crypto shift in U.S. oversight.
  • Crypto market cap rises to $3.18 trillion amid regulatory discussions and shifts.

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission are reportedly developing joint regulations for cryptocurrency markets. The two agencies are exploring ways to revive the CFTC-SEC Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) from its inactive status since 2014. The body was initially formed in 2010 to resolve shared regulatory issues. The proposed reforms for the committee occur as the regulatory environment evolves since regulators aim to establish better clarity around digital assets.

The revived committee will establish better cooperation between the SEC and CFTC regarding their shared responsibilities for crypto asset regulation. These agencies plan to work jointly to resolve emerging jurisdictional questions affecting digital asset prominence in financial markets. The agencies’ combined efforts would create better mutual understanding between the officials and produce more transparent regulatory guidance for market participants.

image 142 2
SEC and CFTC Explore Strategic Collaboration to Strengthen Crypto Regulation 3

Leadership Changes Signal Shift in Regulatory Focus

The SEC and CFTC demonstrate their combined efforts following recent leadership transitions at both organizations. Mark T. Uyeda assumed the SEC chair role acting after Gary Gensler left his position. Additionally, investors in the crypto sphere expect Paul Atkins to bring a more favorable approach toward digital currency. The community is currently considering him to take over the agency. The pro-crypto stance of candidate Paul Atkins means he could establish beneficial new strategies toward blockchain technology and digital assets during his potential tenure.

Furthermore, Brian Quintenz’s appointment to the CFTC represents a major development that favorably impacts the crypto industry. Before joining a16z, Quintenz served as chief of crypto policy, where he demonstrated continuous support for defined regulations governing digital assets. Under this appointment, the CFTC leadership might create a structured framework that enables innovation and investor safeguards.

Ongoing Legal Moves and Market Reactions

The ongoing crypto regulatory exploration between agencies occurs alongside legal sector proceedings that question enforcement methods. For instance, SEC and Binance submitted a request for sixty days of suspension of legal proceedings as their case progressed, which sparked theories about similar delays affecting major existing lawsuits. The SEC’s enforcement direction might transform due to new leadership as they inspect alternative litigation methods instead of maintaining aggressive investigation activity.

The crypto market capitalization has increased to $3.18 trillion, representing a total market growth of 1%. Bitcoin’s price remains at $96,100, having risen 0.3% last day. According to the Crypto Fear and Greed Index, consumer sentiment in the market has transitioned from fear to neutral.

Hong Kong Approves Investment Immigration Applications Using Cryptocurrency

by

  • Hong Kong approves Bitcoin and Ethereum for investment immigration applications.
  • Two successful immigration cases used crypto assets worth HK$30 million as proof.
  • Hong Kong’s program now allows digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum for visas.

On February 7, 2025, Hong Kong authorized the first investment immigration applications that utilized cryptocurrency assets for verification. Two applicants achieved acceptance of the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme through cryptocurrency investments worth HK$30 million, comprising Ethereum and Bitcoin. 

The country’s immigration policy has changed by implementing cryptocurrency asset approvals to show increasing interest in digital economic activities. Following their review process, the Hong Kong Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) verified and approved an Ethereum-based application submitted by a Chinese mainland applicant. 

Authorities previously approved the use of Bitcoin assets in October 2024. Hong Kong authorities have initiated the first cryptocurrency-related financial processes, demonstrating an ongoing official acceptance of digital assets.

Investment Immigration Program and Crypto Asset Requirements

The Investment Immigration Program of Hong Kong requires applicants to prove ownership of HK$30 million (US$3.85 million) before they receive visa consideration. These assets must be stored in stock or regulated assets for approval. After getting approval, applicants must invest the same amount for six months. A sustainable investment allows immigrants to renew their visas in a 2-2-3 cycle before they achieve permanent residency status.

Investors remain uncertain whether cryptocurrency purchases or ETFs would satisfy visa investment criteria. The government is currently evaluating its position regarding these investment types. The authorities conducting the program may provide additional clarification about which crypto assets beyond Ethereum and Bitcoin can qualify as valid investment opportunities.

According to current requirements, applicants must maintain their cryptocurrency assets either in cold wallets or on major exchanges such as Binance to qualify as part of their investment-based immigration. The approved cases have proven crypto assets suitable as proof, but additional policy adjustments may follow.

Expansion of Cryptocurrency Acceptance in Asia

The Hong Kong government joins several Asian nations that now consider cryptocurrency legitimate proof for showing financial assets. Singapore has permitted cryptocurrency to serve similar functions during immigration procedures for an extended period. Singapore implements tighter regulations about crypto asset acquisitions by setting proof requirements for asset origin.

These crypto-backed applications demonstrate Hong Kong’s favorable stance on digital assets, evident in the growing adoption of global cryptocurrency. According to Bitcoin supply data, the APAC region experienced a 6.4% yearly increase in retail transactions. Hong Kong’s crypto market demonstrates growth while other U.S. and European areas experience declining interest. The growth happened because markets like Singapore and South Korea made their regulations more straightforward, leading to more people joining their cryptocurrency markets.