Argentina Moves to Integrate Cryptocurrencies Into Traditional Banking System

Argentina is poised to reverse its stance on cryptocurrency by drafting regulations that would allow traditional banks to trade digital assets. The Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) is currently developing rules that could enable financial institutions to offer crypto services, marking a significant shift from its previous prohibition.

Banks seeking to participate must register as Providers of VIRTUAL Asset Services (PSAVs) or collaborate with licensed crypto exchanges. This move could dramatically expand access to cryptocurrencies by leveraging Argentina's existing banking infrastructure—reaching millions of account holders and potentially boosting public trust in digital assets.

Industry experts emphasize the transformative potential of bank-facilitated crypto adoption. Manuel Ferrari, President of Bitcoin Argentina, notes the initiative could bridge the gap between conventional finance and digital asset markets. While the BCRA hasn't confirmed a timeline, local exchanges speculate the framework may be approved by April 2026.