Germany’s Bitcoin Group Welcomes Licensing for Crypto Custodians, Expects Competition From Banks

Bitcoin Group SE, a prominent member of the European crypto industry, has been preparing to apply for permission to conduct crypto custody activities in its home country, Germany. The providers of such services in the Federal Republic are now recognized as financial institutions. Bitcoin Group, which has been in the business for some time, welcomes … Read more

US Develops Cryptocurrency Intelligence Program Targeting P2P Sites, Forums, Darknet Markets

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has revealed a cryptocurrency intelligence program aimed at identifying unlicensed crypto businesses using P2P sites, online forums, and darknet markets. These areas have consistently presented “a significant challenge to law enforcement” and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Also read: Regulatory Roundup — Trump’s Cryptocurrency Proposals, IRS Changes Rule, … Read more

40 Banks in Germany Declare Intent to Offer Crypto Services Under New Law

More than 40 financial institutions in Germany have reportedly declared to the country’s financial regulator, BaFin, their interest to offer cryptocurrency services under the new German law. News.Bitcoin.com reached out to the regulator for some more information. The law, which went into effect early this year, enables banks to offer crypto services after obtaining a … Read more

Iran Issues More Than 1,000 Cryptocurrency Mining Licenses

The Iranian government has reportedly issued more than 1,000 licenses for cryptocurrency mining since it began regulating the industry. A number of large mining farms have set up in the country, but high electricity tariffs have kept many small investors away. Also read: Regulatory Roundup — New US Crypto Tax Bill, Central Banks Join Forces … Read more

Changes Afoot for Philippine Crypto-Friendly Economic Zone

The special economic zone in the Philippines known for its crypto friendliness is undergoing some changes. Government-owned Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (Ceza) is investigating a case involving one of its licensed crypto exchanges after a tip from the Chinese government. The authority has also issued new directives to all of its licensees, including 40 crypto … Read more

European Countries Step Up Response to Facebook’s Libra

The European Central Bank (ECB) and a number of countries in the region have stepped up their efforts in response to Facebook’s Libra, which has revived a competing ECB project for instant payments. As Facebook engages Switzerland’s financial regulator, the ECB clarifies how Libra can be regulated under EU laws. Also read: India’s Popular ‘Who … Read more

France Adopts New Cryptocurrency Regulation

The French government has adopted a financial sector bill that establishes a legal framework for cryptocurrency service providers and initial coin offerings. The bill includes both optional and mandatory licensing, and also specifies the types of funds that can invest in crypto assets. Also read: Indian Supreme Court Postpones Crypto Case at Government’s Request Pacte … Read more

Thailand Greenlights Japanese Exchange to Operate 4 Crypto Businesses

The Thai government has issued four licenses to a new crypto exchange. Prior to this, only existing exchanges that were in business before the country’s crypto regulation took effect were approved. The first licensed new exchange in Thailand is a subsidiary of a regulated Japanese exchange, Bitpoint. Also read: SEC Chair Explains Key Upgrades Needed … Read more

The Daily: Crypto Startups Licensed in Poland, Dutch Bank Offers Coin Storage

In this edition of The Daily, the Polish financial watchdog has authorized two crypto companies to operate as payment service providers and a bank in the Netherlands now offers crypto storage to its clients. Also, recently leaked images show the long-awaited Samsung S10 may indeed come with a cryptocurrency wallet. Also read: Huobi Downsizes, New … Read more

Money Transmitter License Not Required for Crypto Businesses in Pennsylvania

On Wednesday, Jan. 23, the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities (DoBS) published guidance for virtual currency businesses operating in the state. The state’s financial agency has decided a money transmission license for cryptocurrency operations is not required. Also Read: Former Mt Gox CEO Reflects on Incarceration in Japan While Facing More Prison Time Banking Department … Read more