Andorra Approves Bitcoin Regulatory Framework

Andorra-has-approved-regulatory-framework-for-Bitcoin
  • Andorran government approves regulatory framework for Bitcoin and other digital currencies.
  • The government of Andorra seeks to establish itself as a center for Bitcoin firms.
  • Andorran Regulations set to develop the nation as a fintech and digital business powerhouse.  

The government of Andorra, one of the tiniest microstates in the world, wants to establish itself as a center for Bitcoin firms. In order to clarify their legal status and encourage private investment in this microstate, the Andorran government has adopted a legislative framework for Bitcoin and other digital currencies.

The General Council of the Principality of Andorra enacted the Digital Assets Act on June 30 of last year. As one of the first nations in the world to do so, it establishes a legislative framework for cryptocurrencies and other digital assets.    

The law is divided into two sections: the first defines a legal framework for cryptocurrencies, and the second establishes the Andorran Financial Innovation Authority (AIFA), a regulatory organization that will monitor the cryptocurrency market.

Simeon Djankov, Andorra’s Minister of Economy, stated that the new legislation will promote private investment and make Andorra “a more attractive jurisdiction” for businesses involved in the digital economy.

Digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, are referred to under the act as “property consisting of electronically stored data.” Additionally, it stipulates that digital assets can be purchased, sold, or traded for other assets and used for investing reasons.

The Commission for the Financial Supervision of Andorra (Commissió de Supervisió del Sistema Financer d’Andorra, CSSF), which is responsible for overseeing the country’s financial system, will issue licenses and supervise digital currency exchanges. The implementation of know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) controls will be required by exchanges.

Additionally, the law establishes a framework for initial currency offerings (ICOs). Companies in Andorra will be permitted to raise money by issuing digital tokens, so long as they abide by the act’s regulations.

Digital assets and ICOs are subject to taxation in Andorra. Capital gains from the sale of digital assets will be taxed at a rate of 10%, while profits from ICOs will be taxed at a rate of 20%.

The government of Andorra is implementing new regulations as part of a larger strategy to develop the nation as a fintech and digital business powerhouse. Fintech companies have access to a “regulatory sandbox” that the government established earlier this year to test their offerings without being constrained by regulations. 

This governmental decision might pave the road for other minor nations to follow suit and improve the business environment for cryptocurrencies in Europe.

This comes after the president of Russia Vladimir Putin Signed a Bill Outlawing Cryptocurrency Payments in Russia. The rule will be put into effect 10-days after it has been published in the government gazette.

Crypto News Land (cryptonewsland.com) , also abbreviated as “CNL”, is an independent media entity — we are not affiliated with any company in the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry. We aim to provide fresh and relevant content that will help build up the crypto space since we believe in its potential to impact the world for the better. All of our news sources are credible and accurate as we know it, although we do not make any warranty as to the validity of their statements as well as their motive behind it. While we make sure to double-check the veracity of information from our sources, we do not make any assurances as to the timeliness and completeness of any information in our website as provided by our sources. Moreover, we disclaim any information on our website as investment or financial advice. We encourage all visitors to do your own research and consult with an expert in the relevant subject before making any investment or trading decision.

related posts