The timeline remains uncertain, though local exchange representatives suggested April 2026 as a possible approval date for the new guidelines.
Argentina Crypto News
Banco Central de la República Argentina is preparing regulations that would permit traditional banks to offer digital asset services, potentially implementing the framework by April 2026. The central bank banned such activities in May 2022, citing financial system risks.
La Nacion reported Friday that sources close to BCRA confirmed the rule-making process is underway. The timeline remains uncertain, though local exchange representatives suggested April 2026 as a possible approval date for the new guidelines.
The policy shift reflects broader changes under President Javier Milei, who took office in 2023. Financial regulators have adopted a more accommodating approach to cryptocurrency as Argentina addresses economic pressures including inflation above 270% and restrictive foreign exchange controls.
Lemon, a locally operated exchange, told reporters that opening the banking system to digital assets would accelerate mainstream adoption. The company characterized the move as a key driver for mass integration of crypto services across Argentina's financial infrastructure.
Argentina processed $91 billion in on-chain transaction volume between July 2023 and June 2024, according to Chainalysis. The figure makes Argentina Latin America's most active cryptocurrency market by total transfers, driven primarily by economic necessity rather than speculation.
Stablecoins represent over 60% of that activity. Argentine residents use dollar-pegged tokens like USDT to preserve purchasing power as the peso depreciates, making these cryptocurrencies practical financial tools for protecting savings against currency devaluation.
The nation ranks 15th globally with 10 million active crypto wallet users. Widespread adoption stems from triple-digit inflation, strict capital controls, and fundamental distrust of the local currency among citizens seeking alternatives for everyday financial management.
Securities regulators established licensing requirements for virtual asset service providers in March. Crypto platforms have operated under mandatory registration since April 2024, with Coinbase receiving approval to expand services in January and Bybit gaining authorization in August.
The central bank previously tightened restrictions in May 2023 by prohibiting payment processors from handling cryptocurrency transactions. The upcoming framework reverses that approach, integrating digital assets directly into the regulated banking system.
Brazil maintains Latin America's most comprehensive regulations for bank crypto services. El Salvador permits private institutions to offer digital asset products exclusively to high-net-worth clients, while Panama allows activities without centralized monetary oversight.
This article contains links to third-party websites or other content for information purposes only (“Third-Party Sites”). The Third-Party Sites are not under the control of CoinMarketCap, and CoinMarketCap is not responsible for the content of any Third-Party Site, including without limitation any link contained in a Third-Party Site, or any changes or updates to a Third-Party Site. CoinMarketCap is providing these links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by CoinMarketCap of the site or any association with its operators. This article is intended to be used and must be used for informational purposes only. It is important to do your own research and analysis before making any material decisions related to any of the products or services described. This article is not intended as, and shall not be construed as, financial advice. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s [company’s] own and do not necessarily reflect those of CoinMarketCap.
