California Bill Aims to Recognize Blockchain Records

The state of California has introduced a new bill that aims to recognize blockchain transactions, digital signatures, and smart contracts as a legal form of record. Assemblyman Ian Calderon introduced Assembly Bill 2658 on February 20 in order to re-define laws that apply to electronic records that take place within the state.   Also read: Indians … Read more

Australia’s Consumer Watchdog Received 1289 Crypto Complaints in 2017

The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has revealed that it received more than 1,200 complaints relating to cryptocurrencies via its ‘Scamwatch’ portal during 2017. In light of the number of complaints, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued a warning to potential investors outlining the risks associated with cryptocurrency investment. Also Read: Tesla … Read more

FBI Arrests Exchange Operator for Lying About 6000 Bitcoin Hack

Jon E. Montroll, a 37 year old from Texas, is now facing up to 30 years in jail for perjury and obstruction of justice. The operator of Weexchange and Bitfunder is accused of repeatedly lying to the SEC under testimony in an effort cover up massive client losses after being hacked.  Also Read: US Federal … Read more

20+ South Korean Cryptocurrency Exchanges Voluntarily Undergo Evaluations

Over twenty cryptocurrency exchanges in South Korea have agreed to undergo evaluations, including the country’s top four exchanges: Upbit, Bithumb, Coinone, and Korbit. This is part of their self-regulatory efforts, in conjunction with the Korean Blockchain Association. Also read: Indians Look to Buy Bitcoin Overseas as Regulations Tighten 21 Exchanges Participating So Far The Korean Blockchain … Read more

Russian Lawmaker Proposes Legalization of Cryptocurrencies to Attract Investments

The head of the Russian State Duma Committee for Economic Policy has proposed legalizing cryptocurrencies in order to attract foreign investments including from countries with anti-Russian sanctions. Also read: Indians Look to Buy Bitcoin Overseas as Regulations Tighten Proposal to Legalize Cryptocurrencies The chairman of the State Duma Committee for Economic Policy, Sergey Zhigarev, proposed the … Read more

Islamic Republic of Iran to “Control and Prevent” Growth of Cryptocurrencies

جمهوری اسلامی ایران‎ The Islamic Republic of Iran has apparently changed course on cryptocurrency, or perhaps it has clarified its real position previously mischaracterized by the press. It’s increasingly difficult to get a real handle on the official status of crypto in the Persian homeland.   Also read: How To Regain Control From Nanny Zuck Iran … Read more

Bitcoin Enthusiasts Organize “Abolish the BitLicense” Protest

Bitcoin regulation will always remain a very touchy subject among industry experts. Although an official guideline for service providers helps legitimize cryptocurrency as a whole, there are some negative side effects as well. A group of Bitcoin enthusiasts now want to abolish the BitLicense altogether. Can we Abolish the BitLicense? It is safe to say … Read more

Russian Authorities Criticized over Proposed Crypto Regulation

Criticism aimed at authorities and the new legislation on “digital financial assets” is mounting in Russia. Local officials have rebuked lawmakers in the capital over slow progress, warning that the country will have to catch up with others. Experts from the crypto sector have expressed concerns about many unresolved issues in the proposed legal framework. … Read more

Bafin Clarifies Stance on ICOs as More Germans Ask About Tokens

Germany’s financial regulator has clarified its position on initial coin offerings. Bafin admitted it was receiving many inquiries about the status of tokens and cryptocurrencies distributed to investors through ICOs. The federal agency advised interested parties to refer to regulations applicable to traditional financial instruments and comply with current requirements. A new survey found out … Read more

How South Korean Government Prevents Officials from Insider Crypto Trading

South Korea currently has no law against government officials insider trading with the knowledge of cryptocurrency regulations. The case against an employee of the country’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) accused of crypto insider trading has come to a standstill without grounds for punishment. However, the government has worked out a plan to prevent future occurrences. … Read more