Two More Japanese Bitcoin Exchanges Will Shut Down

The cryptocurrency situation in Japan is evolving in many different directions. While Bitcoin is a legal payment method in the country, multiple exchanges are still facing regulatory scrutiny. So much, in fact, that two more platforms have been forced to shut down due to this mounting regulatory pressure. Curtain Call for Tokyo GateWay and Mr. Exchange … Read more

Thailand Approves Draft Decree on Crypto

The Thai cabinet has approved a draft decree to regulate cryptocurrencies and initial coin offerings. The definition of digital assets has been modified from the previous draft but the tax structure remains. All crypto businesses must obtain licenses and report information to the anti-money laundering office. Also read: Japan’s DMM Bitcoin Exchange Opens for Business With … Read more

Chilean Exchanges Demand ABIF Clarify Its Stance on Cryptocurrency Regulation

The regulatory situation surrounding cryptocurrency is creating a lot of confusion. Very few countries have any active guidelines in this regard, although it seems that will come to change rather soon. Chile’s Association of Banks and Financial Institutions has been asked to take a definitive stance on this particular industry once and for all. How that will … Read more

Massachusetts Censures Five ICO Crypto Startups in a Single Day

Crowdfunding in the United States is a most dangerous game. Massachusetts brought no fewer than five acts of censure on the same day this week. Censure is a formal legal settlement entered into, in this case, with crypto companies accused of financial law violations, and usually involve a Consent Order (to prevent further prosecution, individual … Read more

Crypto Business Is Now Legal in Belarus

Crypto-related activities are now considered legal in Belarus. The presidential decree “On the Development of the Digital Economy” came into force on March 28. The country aims to become a global IT hub luring entrepreneurs from around the world with a business-friendly environment. Unprecedented freedoms and generous incentives are enticing crypto companies to invest in … Read more

Crypto Regulator CFTC Chairman Takes Funding Cuts “Incredibly Personally”

The United States’ Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has received a $1 million USD budget cut. The announcement has come following the CFTC Chairman, Christopher Giancarlo requested an increase in the regulator’s budget of 12 percent. Also Read: 80,000 New Merchants in Europe Gain Option to Accept Crypto CFTC Request For Funding Increase Answered With Budget … Read more

New Bill Aims to Allow Crypto Payments in Russia

A draft law aiming to protect the rights of owners of cryptocurrencies, while regulating their use for payments, has been introduced in Russia’s parliament. The bill defines terms like “digital money” and “digital rights”. It also allows authorities to subject cryptos to taxation, inheritance rights, and bankruptcy claims. Also read: Bill “On Digital Assets” Filed … Read more

Low-value Bitcoin Gift Vouchers Bring More Indians into Crypto

At times when the Indian crypto community is dealing with increasingly hostile environment, an initiative is bringing new investors on board. Bitcoin gift vouchers are gaining popularity in India’s IT hub – Hyderabad. A growing number of Indians like the idea of a cheap and low-risk entry into cryptocurrencies.  Also read: Tax Filing Platform Teams … Read more

Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Chile Call Out Banks for Denying Them Services

Two cryptocurrency exchanges from Chile have called on the country’s baking association (Asociación de Bancos e Instituciones Financieras or ABIF) to issue a clear position regarding the new industry. The companies took this step after a number of Chilean banks reportedly shut down their accounts just for dealing with cryptocurrencies. Also Read: Misleading Cryptocurrency ”Partnership” … Read more

Israel Officially Declares Bitcoin Is Not a Security

Israel Securities Authority (ISA) Committee for the Examination and Regulation of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) issued a series of “recommendations designed to dispel uncertainty and strike a balance between technological innovation and the protection of the investors.” Included in their findings were whether cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin are considered securities – a decision carrying major … Read more