Russia’s tightening regulations on cryptocurrency mining have led to a surge in licensing applications, with the tax authorities receiving 150 submissions since November 1, 2024.
Daniil Egorov, head of the Federal Tax Service, stated that the process is just beginning, and more applications are expected. Miners using under 6,000 kWh of energy monthly are exempt from registration, but others must disclose mining assets and wallet information.
While some speculate that Russia may be following China’s lead in restricting crypto, experts believe the government’s goal is to tax the growing digital asset sector. Other countries, like India and Denmark, have also introduced high taxes on crypto.
Russia’s push to regulate mining comes amidst concerns over its energy consumption and may signal a broader shift toward crypto acceptance, similar to El Salvador’s legalization of Bitcoin.
In addition, nations like Bhutan have recently profited from Bitcoin sales, despite not recognizing cryptocurrencies as legal tender. Bhutan’s government wallet now holds over a billion dollars in crypto, bolstered by a recent market rally.
Efforts to create a clear legal framework for U.S. stablecoins took a hit this week after the Senate failed to push forward a key piece of legislation.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong is pressing U.S. lawmakers to revive momentum behind the GENIUS Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at introducing federal oversight for stablecoins.
A controversial stablecoin bill is now facing mounting opposition in Washington, with Senator Elizabeth Warren leading the charge against what she calls a pathway to “crypto corruption.”
Starting in 2027, the European Union will enforce strict anti-money laundering laws that effectively outlaw anonymous crypto activity.