Recent developments from Russia have sparked concerns in the cryptocurrency sector. The country has recently permitted the use of Bitcoin (BTC) and other cryptocurrencies for international transactions.
However, a contrasting announcement from Deputy Energy Minister Yevgeniy Grabçak indicates a crackdown on cryptocurrency mining due to significant electricity consumption.
Speaking at the “RBK Tech Forum” in Moscow, Grabçak highlighted an electricity shortage in various regions linked to the high energy demands of crypto miners. He noted that these demands have led to power outages in specific areas, particularly in the Far East and southern Siberia. Grabçak mentioned that the government plans to impose a ban on mining activities in certain regions to address these challenges.
This move follows a law approved by President Vladimir Putin on August 8, which legalized cryptocurrency mining across Russia.
Under this legislation, individuals and companies authorized by the government are allowed to mine cryptocurrencies, provided they adhere to specific energy consumption thresholds. The tension between promoting crypto innovation and managing energy resources appears to be a critical issue for Russian authorities as they navigate the complexities of the digital currency landscape.
As the U.S. Senate debates a sweeping reconciliation package dubbed the “Big, Beautiful Bill,” crypto industry advocates are rallying behind an amendment introduced by Senator Cynthia Lummis aimed at reforming outdated and burdensome tax rules for digital assets.
In a major shift from its earlier stance, Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe — Germany’s largest banking group — is preparing to introduce cryptocurrency trading services for retail clients by the summer of 2026, according to a report from Bloomberg.
Kazakhstan is taking a major step toward integrating digital assets into its national financial strategy, with plans to establish a state-managed crypto-reserve.
Bitcoin giant Strategy has added another 4,980 BTC to its reserves in a purchase worth approximately $531.9 million, according to Executive Chairman Michael Saylor.