Argentina’s Central Bank Plans to Let Banks Offer Crypto Services by 2026

Argentina's Central Bank (BCRA) is reportedly drafting regulations that would permit traditional banks to offer cryptocurrency services, such as buying, selling, and storing Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins, directly through their existing platforms by 2026. This move reverses a ban implemented in May 2022, driven by the country's severe inflation, which has pushed millions of Argentines toward digital assets for savings protection. Under the proposed framework, banks must operate these services through separate legal units with enhanced capital and security requirements, potentially registering as Virtual Asset Service Providers (PSAVs) or partnering with existing exchanges. The initiative, supported by President Javier Milei's administration, aims to formalize crypto use, improve tax tracking, and integrate digital assets safely into the financial system. While an official timeline is pending, sources suggest April 2026, and industry experts anticipate this regulated integration could significantly boost crypto adoption among Argentina's 20 million bank customers.

(Source：Brave New Coin)