Venezuela Files Complaint With WTO Regarding US Sanctions Targeting Petro

On Jan. 8, the World Trade Organization (WTO) published a dispute settlement request that was filed by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela with regards to executive orders and sanctions maintained by the United States that target Venezuela and the nation’s cryptocurrency, the petro. The document was filed with the WTO on Dec. 28. Also Read: Malaysia … Read more

Texas Updates Regulatory Guidance Regarding Cryptocurrency Activities

The Texas Department of Banking has published new guidance regarding the regulatory treatment of virtual currencies under the Texas Money Services Act. The document states that most transactions involving cryptocurrencies will not be considered a transfer of “monetary value” but the exchange of virtual currencies for fiat will likely be recognized as a “money transmission.” … Read more

Iranian Officials Issue Contradictory Statements Regarding Telegram Ban

Telegram’s initial coin offering has been the catalyst of confusion among Iran’s leadership, with conflicting statements regarding a potential ban on Telegram being made by officials. A few days ago, Iranian parliamentarian, Alaeddin Boroujerdi told media that Iran’s “highest level” officials wish to ban Telegram by April 20 due to the app’s monopoly position within … Read more

Malta Extends Scope of Proposed Virtual Currency Regulations

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) has published a ”feedback statement” regarding its proposal for regulatory guidelines governing collective investment schemes involving virtual currencies (VCs) operating in the European archipelago nation. The statement has been issued following a consultation period from the 23rd of October 2017 to the 17th of November – in which the … Read more

Singapore to Extend Regulatory Mandate Regarding Cryptocurrencies

The Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore has sought to clarify the nation’s stance on cryptocurrencies with regards to its money laundering laws. Speaking earlier this week, Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam emphasized that Singapore’s financial regulator will not distinguish between cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies. Also Read: Singapore to Extend Regulatory Mandate Regarding Cryptocurrencies Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Updates … Read more

Confusion Grows Surrounding Official Chinese Position Regarding Bitcoin Mining

In recent days a number of conflicting reports have surfaced pertaining to the stance of China’s government with regards to bitcoin mining. Last week, Bloomberg reported that the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) had met to discuss curbing mining operations in China, whilst Chinese media reports denied such – however, it has since emerged that … Read more