Putin Calls for International Settlements Based on Blockchain and Digital Currencies

Russian President Vladimir Putin believes a new system for international money transfers is needed to reduce dependence on big banks and third parties. He is convinced that cross-border payments relying on digital currency and distributed ledger technology will be “much more convenient.” Russia’s Head of State Urges for Blockchain-Powered International Payments President of Russia Vladimir … Read more

Russia Prepares to Create Government-Controlled Crypto Exchange

Lawmakers in Russia are drafting legislation that would allow the establishment of a “national cryptocurrency exchange,” local media unveiled. Coins now circulate outside of government oversight and the Russian state is losing budget revenues in the billions of rubles, pointed out one of the participants in these efforts. Legislators Want Russia to Have Its Own … Read more

New York Governor Signs Law Partially Banning Bitcoin Mining on Fossil Fuels

A moratorium on some crypto mining operations relying on carbon-based energy has been signed into law in New York. Businesses engaged in proof-of-work mining in the state will not be able to expand or renew their permits for the next two years as a result of the ban, which is likely to have consequences for … Read more

Russia and Cuba Eye Cryptocurrencies for Settlements Amid Sanctions

Both facing sanctions, Russia and Cuba are looking into alternative options for cross-border payments, including cryptocurrencies, a Kremlin advisor has unveiled in Havana. Moscow is already developing a mechanism for crypto settlements to circumvent financial restrictions imposed over its invasion of Ukraine. Crypto and Ruble Considered for Payments in Trade Between Russia and Cuba The … Read more

Russia and Turkey to Collaborate on Combating Crime-Related Crypto Transactions

Law enforcement and judicial authorities from Russia and Turkey are joining forces in the fight against cybercrime, including the use of cryptocurrencies for illegal purposes. The collaboration has been agreed upon during a visit by Russia’s Prosecutor General to Ankara. Russia, Turkey Arrange Cooperation on Countering Crime Involving Digital Space and Assets The Prosecutor General … Read more

Crypto Exchange Bybit Does Not Plan to Sanction Russian Users Despite MAS Call, Report

Cryptocurrency exchange Bybit has no intention to introduce restrictions for Russian traders, despite a recent reminder by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) about the obligations of crypto providers in that respect. According to a crypto media report, the platform shared its position in correspondence with partners. Bybit Reportedly Vows to ‘Not Discriminate Against Crypto … Read more

Crypto Exchanges Must Comply With Russia Sanctions, Singapore Central Bank Says

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has reiterated that cryptocurrency exchanges need to conform to restrictions on Russian users imposed over Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The reminder comes after researchers established that pro-Russia activists have raised millions of dollars in digital assets to support its war effort. Singapore Says Measures Targeting Russia Apply to All … Read more

Moldova Bans Cryptocurrency Mining Amid Energy Crisis Caused by War in Ukraine

The government of Moldova has decided to suspend crypto mining activities in the country as it’s facing a major energy crisis. The move is part of emergency measures to reduce power consumption with energy supplies dwindling due to the escalating conflict in neighboring Ukraine. Authorities in Moldova Prohibit Bitcoin Minting and Mining Hardware Imports to … Read more

Bitcoin Mining Revenue in Russia Grew 18 Times in 4 Years Before ‘Worst Quarter’

Russian revenues from the minting of bitcoin saw a multifold increase in the past few years before declining significantly since this past spring. The findings come from a new study which also established that the sector was growing during both ups and downs in the crypto market. $1.4 Billion in Turnover Expected From Russia’s Bitcoin … Read more

Localbitcoins, Crypto.com, Other Providers Suspend Services for Russians Under EU Rules

Complying with the latest EU sanctions targeting Russia, well-known cryptocurrency platforms like Localbitcoins, Blockchain.com, and Crypto.com have started to restrict or terminate services for Russian accounts. The moves follow the adoption of new European penalties in response to Moscow’s military escalation in Ukraine. Major Crypto Platforms Conform to EU Measures, Restrict Services for Russian Users … Read more