- Central Bank explores crypto settlements
- Experiment targets foreign structures
- New institutions to handle mining
In a controversial move, Elvira Nabiullina, Chairman of the Central Bank of Russia, recently announced a plan to allow the use of cryptocurrencies in settling transactions with foreign entities. This experimental initiative has been met with both anticipation and skepticism, as it marks a significant departure from the regulator’s previous stance on cryptocurrency usage within the country.
Speaking at an event with representatives from the New People party, Nabiullina revealed that while the Central Bank remains opposed to using cryptocurrencies domestically, they are open to exploring the potential benefits and challenges of employing digital assets for external payments. A draft law outlining the proposed framework is currently in development.
To support this bold experiment, Russia plans to establish specialized institutions responsible for mining cryptocurrencies and transferring them to foreign entities. These organizations will also manage operations involving other digital financial assets. The Central Bank is currently in discussions with the government to determine which institutions should be entrusted with these responsibilities. Initially, a state-owned company may be granted this role, with private enterprises potentially gaining access to these opportunities later on.
As the global financial landscape evolves, Russia’s daring crypto experiment could either usher in a new era of international trade or highlight the potential pitfalls of integrating digital currencies into traditional financial systems.
In other news, UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) is ushering in a new era of digital finance by opening the country’s doors to crypto service providers, signifying a bold step toward a digital currency revolution. The UAE Council of Ministers decided to regulate the cryptocurrency industry last year, with the SCA assuming responsibility for industry oversight.
