Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Chile Call Out Banks for Denying Them Services

Two cryptocurrency exchanges from Chile have called on the country’s baking association (Asociación de Bancos e Instituciones Financieras or ABIF) to issue a clear position regarding the new industry. The companies took this step after a number of Chilean banks reportedly shut down their accounts just for dealing with cryptocurrencies. Also Read: Misleading Cryptocurrency ”Partnership” … Read more

Israel Officially Declares Bitcoin Is Not a Security

Israel Securities Authority (ISA) Committee for the Examination and Regulation of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) issued a series of “recommendations designed to dispel uncertainty and strike a balance between technological innovation and the protection of the investors.” Included in their findings were whether cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin are considered securities – a decision carrying major … Read more

Belarus Adopts Crypto Accounting Standard

Days before legalizing crypto activities, Belarus has adopted a new accounting standard that deals with cryptocurrencies. It classifies digital tokens according to their acquisition and intended use. The document defines the information companies will be required to share with authorities. The presidential decree regulating the crypto sector comes into force on March 28. Also read: … Read more

Tennessee Passes Bill Recognizing Smart Contracts and Blockchain Transactions

The governor of Tennessee has signed a bill into law that recognizes “the legal authority to use blockchain technology and smart contracts in conducting electronic transactions.” The new bill also “protects the ownership rights of certain information secured by blockchain technology” under state law. Also Read: Hydro-Quebec Turns Down New Applications for Crypto Mining Operations Tennessee … Read more

IRS Reminds Taxpayers to Report Virtual Currency Earnings

The United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently published a document reminding taxpayers that income derived from virtual currency transactions must be reported on income tax returns. The IRS states that taxpayers who fail to report virtual currency earning may be audited or made liable for “penalties and interest.” Also Read: Bitcoin Adoption Grows in Ugandan … Read more

Dutch Court Rules That Bitcoin Has “Properties of Wealth”

The Court of Amsterdam has found that bitcoin possesses “properties of wealth” following a civil rights case. Dutch repossession laws have been invoked to mandate the repayment of 0.591 BTC obliged by a contract between two individuals relating to bitcoin mining. Also Read:The Race Between Segwit and Bitcoin Cash Is Heating Up  Dutch Court Publishing … Read more

Malta Prime Minister Welcomes Binance to Its “Blockchain Island”

The world’s largest cryptocurrency has found a new home on one of the world’s smallest island states. Prime Minister Joseph Muscat warmly welcomed the cryptocurrency platform and spoke of his desire for Malta to become “global trailblazers in the regulation of blockchain-based businesses and the jurisdiction of quality and choice for world class fintech companies”. … Read more

OECD Warns Crypto and Blockchain is Challenging Tax Transparency

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has issued a report to the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors. The report examines the accomplishments and aims of the OECD in advancing its efforts to “redefine the international landscape,” identifying new technologies cryptocurrencies and distributed ledger technology as posing unique challenges to “tax transparency.” … Read more

ICE Agency Charges Payza and Two Canadian Citizens With Bitcoin Money Laundering

This week the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security agency (ICE) has revealed that it is charging two Canadian brothers and the company Payza with illegal money transmission and money laundering charges tethered to cryptocurrency transactions. Also read: ICO Trackers Are the New Gatekeepers of Crowdsales Money Transmitters are Required to Register With U.S. Federal … Read more

Swiss Officials Fear ICOs Will Tarnish Reputation of ‘Crypto Valley’ Zug

Cryptocurrency foundations, community organizations, and entrepreneurs have helped put the lightly populated Swiss canton of Zug on the business world’s map. While the local administration has created one of the most welcoming environments for the industry, some voices fear possible negative repercussions such as bad press and an American regulatory backlash. Also Read: Survey Says … Read more