Russia has reaffirmed its strict stance against using cryptocurrencies for domestic payments, insisting the ruble remains the sole legal tender. While crypto can be held as an investment or used in cross-border trade, lawmakers have closed the door on its use in everyday commerce. The position reflects ongoing central bank skepticism and a firm state monopoly over money.
about Russia Reinforces Ruble-Only Rule, Bans Crypto Payments DomesticallyMinistry of Finance
0 in Finance and 0 in Crypto last weekRussia Legalizes Bitcoin for International Trade Amid Sanctions
Russia has enacted a landmark legal framework permitting cryptocurrency settlements for international trade, directly countering Western sanctions. The Ministry of Finance and Central Bank will allow Russian exporters to transact in Bitcoin and stablecoins through regulated channels. This strategic pivot marks one of Russia’s most significant financial policy reversals since its 2021 crypto ban.
about Russia Legalizes Bitcoin for International Trade Amid SanctionsVietnam Caps Crypto Exchange Licenses at 5 in Pilot Program
Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance has announced it will issue no more than five licenses for cryptocurrency exchanges in its pilot program, adopting a cautious regulatory stance that industry experts warn could stifle innovation and drive liquidity offshore. Deputy Finance Minister Nguyen Duc Chi confirmed that despite Vietnam’s position as a global crypto adoption leader, no formal applications have been submitted, with companies instead preparing technical systems and engaging in preliminary discussions amid regulatory uncertainty and high entry barriers.
about Vietnam Caps Crypto Exchange Licenses at 5 in Pilot ProgramVietnam’s Crypto Pilot Fails to Attract Applicants
Vietnam’s ambitious five-year digital asset trading pilot has received zero applications from companies despite growing global interest in regulated crypto markets, with stringent capital requirements and prohibitions on stablecoins and tokenized securities creating significant barriers to participation. The Ministry of Finance confirmed the complete lack of interest in the program, which Deputy Minister Nguyen Duc Chi acknowledged while emphasizing the government’s readiness to license up to five qualified participants immediately.
about Vietnam's Crypto Pilot Fails to Attract ApplicantsUAE Adopts Global Crypto Tax Reporting Framework by 2028
The United Arab Emirates has taken a decisive step toward aligning its digital asset ecosystem with international tax transparency standards. By signing the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement for the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), the UAE Ministry of Finance has committed to implementing the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s global regime for cryptocurrency reporting. The framework will be operational in 2027, with automatic information exchange between participating jurisdictions commencing in 2028, marking a significant shift in the UAE’s approach to digital asset regulation and tax compliance.
about UAE Adopts Global Crypto Tax Reporting Framework by 2028Thailand Waives Crypto Income Tax for 5 Years
Thailand will exempt capital gains tax on cryptocurrency sales made via licensed crypto asset service providers from January 2025 to December 2029. The tax waiver, announced by Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, is part of Thailand’s strategy to enhance its status as a leading financial hub for digital assets. The government aims to attract crypto investors by offering a favorable regulatory environment, positioning itself among the early adopters of digital asset taxation laws.
about Thailand Waives Crypto Income Tax for 5 YearsVietnam Legalizes Bitcoin, Boosts Digital Economy
Vietnam’s National Assembly has passed the Law on Digital Technology Industry, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, legalizing crypto assets like Bitcoin. The law categorizes digital assets into virtual assets (e.g., in-game tokens) and crypto assets (e.g., Bitcoin) and is part of a broader push to advance Vietnam’s digital economy. By establishing clear regulations, Vietnam aims to attract tech talent and investment while solidifying its position as a Southeast Asian tech hub. The move aligns with global trends of increasing crypto adoption and regulatory clarity, with Bitcoin’s price reflecting positive market sentiment. The law also supports AI, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure, signaling Vietnam’s long-term tech ambitions.
about Vietnam Legalizes Bitcoin, Boosts Digital EconomyThailand to Allow Crypto Spending for Tourists via Credit Cards
Thailand is preparing to enable tourists to spend cryptocurrency through credit card-linked platforms, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. The initiative, currently under review by the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand, aims to modernize the financial system and align capital markets with digital assets. This strategic move could position Thailand as a leader in crypto-friendly tourism, attracting tech-savvy travelers and boosting local commerce.
about Thailand to Allow Crypto Spending for Tourists via Credit CardsPakistan Allocates 2,000MW for Bitcoin Mining & AI
Pakistan has allocated 2,000 megawatts of excess electricity exclusively for Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, as part of a broader digital transformation strategy. The move, backed by the Pakistan Crypto Council and the Ministry of Finance, seeks to attract billions in foreign investment while fostering high-tech employment. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted the initiative’s potential to position Pakistan as a hub for crypto and AI innovation. The first phase will focus on directing surplus power to these sectors, signaling a major shift toward tech-driven economic growth.
about Pakistan Allocates 2,000MW for Bitcoin Mining & AIRussia Tightens Crypto Payment Ban with New Penalties
Russia’s Ministry of Finance and Central Bank have jointly proposed a bill imposing fines up to 200,000 rubles for individuals and 1 million rubles for companies using crypto domestically. The legislation formalizes existing restrictions and grants regulators authority to confiscate digital assets involved in unauthorized transactions. Despite banning local crypto payments, Russia continues leveraging digital assets for international trade to circumvent Western sanctions. Meanwhile, officials warn that crypto anonymity is a myth, citing exchanges like Binance that comply with law enforcement requests. The country is also developing a national crypto exchange under an experimental legal regime for cross-border settlements.
about Russia Tightens Crypto Payment Ban with New PenaltiesThailand to Offer $3 Tokenized Bonds for Retail Investors
The Thai government has announced plans to issue $150 million worth of tokenized government bonds, enabling retail investors to participate with minimum investments of just $3. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira revealed the initiative, which was endorsed by the cabinet, with the tokens expected to launch within two months. The ‘G-tokens’ will be used to raise public funds under the current budget borrowing plan, though officials clarified they are not traditional debt instruments. This move marks a significant step in democratizing access to government-backed investments through blockchain technology.
about Thailand to Offer $3 Tokenized Bonds for Retail InvestorsVietnam Launches Pilot Crypto Platform with Bybit
Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance is developing a pilot crypto trading platform with technical support from Bybit, as part of efforts to regulate the country’s booming digital asset market. Finance Minister Ho Duc Phoc stressed the risks of unregulated transactions, advocating for a legal framework to protect investors and promote blockchain innovation. The platform, expected to be proposed in early May, will provide a controlled environment for transparent and secure transactions. Bybit will assist in designing the exchange, leveraging its expertise in compliance and anti-money laundering. The move aligns with Vietnam’s high crypto adoption rate, ranked fifth globally by Chainalysis. Meanwhile, Binance is also expanding its blockchain advisory role in other countries, including Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan.
about Vietnam Launches Pilot Crypto Platform with Bybit