Argentina Advances in Regulation: A New Framework for Crypto Exchanges

• Public consultation allows 30 days for feedback on new regulations by Argentina’s CNV.
• Proposed changes include service categories, capital requirements, and operational rules for crypto exchanges.

In a significant move by the National Securities Commission (CNV) of Argentina , a new set of regulations designed for virtual asset service providers (PSAVs) is currently under public consultation. This initiative underscores a proactive approach to integrating public opinion into the legislative framework, enhancing the regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency exchanges in the country.

The CNV, which supervises and regulates the local capital markets, has recently taken under its purview the registry of PSAVs. This development is part of a broader strategy to adapt to the evolving financial technologies and the increasing importance of virtual assets in the economy. With over 84 entities already registered, the CNV is taking decisive steps to ensure that these service providers operate within a structured and compliant environment.

Understanding the Proposed Regulatory Framework

The newly proposed regulations delineate specific obligations that PSAVs must fulfill to maintain their operational status in Argentina . These obligations are segmented into various categories based on the nature of services provided:

• Category 1 involves the exchange of virtual assets for fiat currencies, like exchanging USDT for dollars.
• Category 2 covers exchanges between different types of virtual assets, such as trading Bitcoin for USDT.
• Category 3 pertains to the transfer of virtual assets.
• Category 4 includes the custody and/or management of virtual assets.
• Category 5 focuses on participation in and provision of financial services related to the issuance or sale of a virtual asset.

Furthermore, the regulation suggests a tiered approach to capital requirements, where the minimum capital necessary can be as high as 150,000 USD depending on the category in which a PSAV operates. This capital stipulation is intended to ensure that the entities are sufficiently funded to manage the risks associated with their business activities.

The CNV’s initiative also introduces mandatory reporting systems, requiring PSAVs to periodically provide detailed information on various operational aspects such as customer numbers, transaction volumes, and the types of virtual assets most frequently traded. This reporting is crucial for maintaining transparency and for the CNV’s ongoing monitoring efforts.

By engaging the public through the “Participative Development of Standards” process, the CNV is fostering a collaborative environment where stakeholders can submit their feedback and suggest modifications to the draft regulations. This 30-day consultation period not only democratizes the regulatory process but also allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the implications of these rules from multiple perspectives.