cryptocurrency

Garantex reportedly resurfaces as Grinex after sanctions

Garantex, a Russian cryptocurrency exchange previously sanctioned by the US, is reportedly back in operation under the name Grinex.

According to Global Ledger, a Swiss blockchain analytics firm, Garantex shifted liquidity and customer balances to the new platform after its official shutdown. On-chain and off-chain evidence points to the two exchanges being closely linked despite Garantex’s closure.

Global Ledger’s report revealed that Garantex laundered over $60 million worth of ruble-backed stablecoins, using a process of burning and reminting to erase transaction histories.

The funds were then channelled to Grinex, which began processing large transaction volumes soon after Garantex went offline. Blockchain data showed systematic fund transfers through temporary wallets before reaching Grinex’s deposit addresses.

Further evidence linking the two platforms includes user reports of previously blocked funds from Garantex appearing in Grinex accounts.

A Grinex staff member also confirmed that users were visiting Garantex’s office to move funds between the two platforms. Additionally, Grinex’s website and promotional materials strongly resemble those of Garantex, and it is listed as being founded by the same team.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

Czech central bank weighs Bitcoin despite concerns

The Czech National Bank (CNB) remains cautious about adding Bitcoin to its reserves, with board member Jan Kubicek citing legal complexities and extreme price volatility as key concerns.

While the bank is evaluating various asset classes, Kubicek expressed scepticism about Bitcoin’s suitability as a central bank reserve asset.

Kubicek noted that Bitcoin’s unpredictable price swings undermine its stability, making it less attractive for reserve holdings.

He also highlighted the need for new accounting and auditing processes if Bitcoin were to be included. The CNB’s assessment of alternative assets, including corporate bonds and technology stocks, is expected to conclude by October.

The idea of holding Bitcoin in reserves was initially proposed by CNB Governor Ales Michl in January 2025, sparking interest in the crypto community but drawing scepticism from policymakers.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde opposed the move, emphasising that central bank reserves must prioritise liquidity and security.

Despite concerns, several countries have already integrated Bitcoin into their strategic reserves. The US, under the Trump administration, has taken a more proactive stance on cryptocurrency, influencing global discussions on digital asset adoption.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Pakistan prepares to legalise cryptocurrency trading

Pakistan is set to legalise cryptocurrency trading, joining a growing list of nations embracing digital assets. According to Bilal bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council, a regulatory framework is in development to provide clarity on crypto-related activities.

The country’s shift highlights the rapid evolution of the cryptocurrency sector. Once associated with illicit activities, various nations are now exploring digital assets as reserves.

Pakistan’s interest in crypto reflects its ambition to attract foreign investment, leveraging its young, tech-savvy workforce. Saqib emphasised that Pakistan, with 60% of its population under 30, is well-positioned to become a Web3 hub.

With a projected population of 511 million by 2100, Pakistan ranks among the most populous countries. The nation already has 15 to 20 million cryptocurrency users, signalling strong domestic interest.

Saqib, recently appointed as the finance minister’s chief advisor for digital asset management, is leading efforts to integrate crypto and artificial intelligence into government operations.

Inspired by Donald Trump’s push to prioritise cryptocurrency in the US, Pakistan aims to follow suit. Saqib noted that as Trump advances a national crypto strategy, other countries will adopt similar approaches to remain competitive.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

Brazilian lawmaker proposes Bitcoin salary regulation

A Brazilian lawmaker has introduced a bill to regulate salary payments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Federal Deputy Luiz Philippe de Orleans e Bragança filed the proposal on 12 March, seeking to legalise voluntary crypto wage payments while ensuring at least 50% of salaries remain in the national currency, the Brazilian real.

The bill prohibits full salary payments in virtual assets, except for expatriate or foreign employees under Central Bank of Brazil regulations. Independent service providers may receive full compensation in cryptocurrency, provided specific contractual conditions are met. Employers must use an authorised exchange rate for crypto conversion, aligning with official financial regulations.

Orleans-Bragança, a descendant of Brazil’s former royal family, argues that the bill would strengthen the financial technology sector and attract crypto investment. He also emphasised that the measure promotes contractual freedom between employers and employees without undermining fundamental labour protections. The proposal follows global examples from countries like Japan, Switzerland, and Portugal, where regulated crypto payments have encouraged adoption and flexibility in financial transactions.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

Binance CEO dismisses claims of Trump family deal talks

Binance CEO Richard Teng has reiterated that Binance is not in deal talks with business entities linked to US President Donald Trump.

Speaking at the Blockworks 2025 Digital Asset Summit, Teng dismissed reports that Binance. US was considering selling an equity stake to Trump-affiliated firms, including World Liberty Financial.

His statement echoed denials from both Binance’s founder, Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, and Trump.

Teng emphasised that Binance.US operates independently from its global counterpart, highlighting differences in shareholders, governance, and leadership.

Despite not directly operating in the US, he praised Trump’s pro-crypto stance, stating that Binance has benefited from policies supporting institutional adoption of digital assets.

He also noted that Trump’s push for a national crypto reserve could prompt other governments to take the sector more seriously.

The Wall Street Journal had reported that CZ was seeking a pardon from the Trump administration, suggesting a potential conflict of interest if a deal were struck.

Both CZ and Trump refuted the claims, with Trump dismissing the report as politically motivated. His recent involvement in crypto, including the launch of a meme coin and ties to World Liberty Financial, has sparked debate over presidential ethics and industry influence.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

Bank of Russia considers limited crypto trading for select investors

The Bank of Russia has proposed allowing select investors to trade cryptocurrencies under a three-year experimental legal regime.

The initiative, aimed at increasing market transparency, would permit only investors with at least $1.1 million in securities and deposits to participate. The Central bank also suggested introducing penalties for violations of the proposed framework.

Despite this move, the Bank of Russia reiterated its strict stance on cryptocurrency payments within the country. Bitcoin and other digital assets for transactions remain banned under Russia’s existing crypto regulations.

However, the government continues exploring the use of crypto for cross-border payments, with ongoing trials in foreign trade.

The central bank’s proposal could also open the door for regulated corporate investments in crypto. If implemented, this could pave the way for Russian firms to follow the strategy of companies like Strategy, which has amassed a significant Bitcoin portfolio.

The plan includes regulatory measures to mitigate the risks associated with crypto investments while expanding financial opportunities for experienced investors.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

Indian police arrest Garantex administrator wanted by US

Indian authorities have arrested Aleksej Besciokov, an administrator of the Russian cryptocurrency exchange Garantex, at the request of the US.

Besciokov, a Russian resident and Lithuanian national, was taken into custody in Kerala on charges of money laundering and violating sanctions. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said he was planning to flee India, and Washington is expected to seek his extradition.

The arrest follows a joint operation by the US, Germany, and Finland to dismantle Garantex’s online infrastructure.

The exchange, under US sanctions since 2022, has processed at least $96 billion in cryptocurrency transactions since 2019. The US Justice Department recently charged two administrators, including Besciokov, with operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business.

Experts warn that sanctioned exchanges often attempt to bypass restrictions by setting up new entities. Blockchain research firm TRM Labs called the Garantex takedown a significant step in combating illicit finance but emphasised the need for continued vigilance against evasion tactics.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Crypto to play a key role in Bolivia’s fuel payments

Bolivia’s state-owned energy firm YPFB will begin using cryptocurrency to pay for fuel imports as the country struggles with a severe shortage of US dollars.

The government recently approved the use of digital assets for energy purchases, aiming to maintain fuel subsidies despite dwindling foreign reserves. Long queues at petrol stations and scattered protests highlight the deepening crisis.

Once an energy exporter, Bolivia is now facing a decline in natural gas production due to a lack of discoveries.

Increased reliance on imports has led to supply disruptions. Santa Cruz recently experienced a severe diesel shortage, sparking roadblocks and strike threats from farmers and transport operators, who warned of prolonged protests unless immediate action was taken.

In response, Bolivia’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Energy has announced plans to expand the national electricity system, focusing on renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal power.

The government aims to strengthen energy security and sustainability while positioning Bolivia as a leader in renewable energy.

While YPFB has not yet completed any transactions using digital assets, officials confirmed that plans are in place to begin soon. The move underscores Bolivia’s urgency in securing essential resources and adapting to economic challenges through alternative financial solutions.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

South Korea to release institutional crypto investment guidelines by Q3

South Korea’s financial regulator is set to release new guidelines for institutional cryptocurrency investment by the third quarter.

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) confirmed the plan during a meeting with industry experts, marking a significant shift in its approach to digital assets.

Guidelines for non-profits and crypto exchanges are expected as early as April, with broader rules for public companies and professional investors following later.

The FSC had previously hinted at loosening restrictions, beginning with plans to allow charities and universities to sell their crypto holdings in the second quarter.

However, this move signals a departure from South Korea’s previous hardline stance on crypto investment, aligning with global trends favouring greater institutional participation.

The upcoming guidelines will detail best practices for trading, disclosure and reporting, helping to shape a more structured market.

With nearly a third of South Korea’s population engaged in crypto trading, institutional involvement could further boost market liquidity and growth. FSC Vice Chairman Kim So-young acknowledged the increasing pace of international crypto adoption, particularly in response to policy shifts in the US.

He also emphasised the need for stricter anti-money laundering measures and enhanced cybersecurity to protect investors.

Meanwhile, the FSC is also working on the second phase of its crypto regulatory framework, which will focus on stablecoins and stricter oversight of crypto businesses.

The regulator’s evolving stance highlights a broader effort to integrate digital assets into the financial system while maintaining security and compliance.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu. 

Texas bill aims to limit crypto investments in state fund

A new bill introduced in Texas by Representative Ron Reynolds aims to restrict how much local and state authorities can invest in cryptocurrencies.

Filed on 10 March, the legislation proposes that the state’s comptroller be prohibited from investin more than $250 million of the Economic Stabilisation Fund, also known as the ‘rainy day’ fund, in Bitcoin or other digital currencies.

Additionally, the bill seeks to cap investments by municipalities and counties at $10 million.

The proposal follows the Texas Senate’s passing of a bill on 6 March to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve, which could allow the state’s comptroller to invest an unlimited amount in Bitcoin.

The push for a state Bitcoin reserve aligns with wider efforts in US state legislatures, particularly following the 2024 political shifts under President Trump’s administration.

While the bill proposed by Reynolds is not directly tied to the Bitcoin reserve bill introduced by Republican State Senator Charles Schwertner, its introduction adds a layer of debate over cryptocurrency regulations at both state and federal levels. If the bill passes, it could be enacted on 1 September.

Despite recent federal actions, including an executive order from Trump to establish a ‘Strategic Bitcoin Reserve,’ questions about the president’s authority to implement such policies through executive orders remain.

Meanwhile, Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis has reintroduced legislation to codify the federal Bitcoin reserve proposal into law.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.