Payments in National Currencies Surge to 92% Among SCO Members

Payments in national currencies among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) members have reportedly increased from 40% in 2022 to 92%, signaling a move away from reliance on the U.S. dollar. Similar to the BRICS economic bloc, the SCO, which includes Russia, China, India, and recently added Iran, is encouraging the use of local currencies to strengthen … Read more

JPMorgan Executive Sees Big Future for India’s CBDC Initiative

Naveen Mallela, global co-head of Onyx, JPMorgan’s blockchain and digital currency unit, highlighted the rapid adoption of blockchain technology in India, particularly after the 2022 launch of the central bank digital currency (CBDC), the e-rupee. He noted that CBDCs represent a significant advancement for Indian payments, positioning them as the next step in the evolution … Read more

RBI Governor Warns Against Rapid CBDC Launch, Advocates Gradual Approach

The governor of India’s central bank, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Shaktikanta Das, has highlighted the challenges of implementing cross-border digital currency interoperability and the necessity for robust governance. He emphasized the importance of gradual central bank digital currency (CBDC) rollout and data-driven insights from pilot programs. RBI Governor Warns of Challenges in Digital … Read more

Wazirx Begins INR Withdrawal Phase 1: Users Can Withdraw Up to 33%

Indian crypto exchange Wazirx has initiated the first phase of INR withdrawals, permitting eligible users to withdraw up to 33% of their INR balances. Co-founder Nischal Shetty noted that the timeline for the second phase remains uncertain due to several internal factors that need to be addressed. Wazirx Launches Phase 1 of INR Withdrawals Indian … Read more

India Expected to Release Consultation Paper on Cryptocurrency Regulations in Coming Months, Report

The Indian government, through a panel headed by the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), is expected to release a consultation paper on cryptocurrency regulations. The paper, scheduled for release between September and October 2024, will seek input from stakeholders to gather feedback on effective regulation. India is emphasizing the importance of international … Read more

Wazirx to Resume INR Withdrawals Up to 66% — Crypto Withdrawals Remain Suspended

Indian crypto exchange Wazirx has announced that INR withdrawals will resume in phases starting on Aug. 26, following a cyberattack that disrupted services. To manage crypto balances, Wazirx plans to implement a Singapore Scheme of Arrangement to facilitate the distribution of crypto assets. INR withdrawals will occur in two stages, allowing users to access up … Read more