Crypto.com co-founder and CEO Kris Marszalek has acquired AI.com domain for approximately $70 million in cryptocurrency and plans to launch a consumer-facing artificial intelligence platform under the brand.
Marszalek confirmed the purchase in a post on X on 6 February, revealing that he bought the domain in April 2025 and has been quietly building a team since then. The domain had previously been listed for sale with a $100 million asking price in March 2025.
I purchased https://t.co/ac2AqjBNxj in April. Since that time, we created a team that has been steadily building. There are always twists and turns, but I’m excited with our first launch this Sunday during the Super Bowl. pic.twitter.com/BbqVo1bQLZ
— Kris | ai.com (@kris) February 6, 2026
According to a LinkedIn post by domain broker Larry Fischer, Marszalek paid $70 million for AI.com in what is believed to be the largest domain name transaction ever publicly disclosed.
As reported by The Block, the deal surpassed earlier record-setting domain sales, including CarInsurance.com, which sold for $49.7 million in 2010, and OpenAI’s reported purchase of Chat.com for more than $15.5 million in late 2024. While Gizmodo previously noted that Cars.com was valued at $872.3 million as an intangible asset during a 2014 acquisition, that figure was part of a broader corporate transaction rather than a standalone domain sale.
Marszalek will serve as CEO of both Crypto.com and AI.com. The AI.com platform launched on 8 February (Sunday). The company’s press release stated that the platform will allow users to create personal AI agents capable of sending messages, executing actions across applications, trading stocks and building projects. User data will be encrypted using individual encryption keys. “We are at a fundamental shift in AI’s evolution as we rapidly move beyond basic chats to AI agents actually getting things done for humans,” Marszalek said in the release.
As reported by Adweek, the AI.com platform launched with a 30-second fourth-quarter commercial that caused a massive traffic surge, briefly crashing the website.
The AI.com launch comes just days after Crypto.com spun out its prediction markets business into a standalone app called OG, also timed around Super Bowl-related marketing activity. Crypto.com claims more than 150 million retail users worldwide and approximately $1.5 billion in annual revenue.
In comments to the Financial Times, Marszalek said he has already received what he described as “an absolutely insane amount of money” in offers for the AI.com domain but plans to retain ownership.
“When we started Crypto.com there were around a thousand different exchanges, and we somehow managed to make it work,” he said. “We will make this work one way or another.”
In 2024, Crypto.com unveiled its first-ever sports event trading platform exclusively for US users via its application. This platform enabled participants to trade predictions on sports event outcomes, with the inaugural offering centred on the upcoming Super Bowl. Users could predict which team will clinch the NFL championship in the app, with various teams listed alongside their probabilities, enabling straightforward selection. Operating under the oversight of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), Crypto.com adheres to stringent regulatory requirements, ensuring a compliant trading environment for its users, such as UpDown Options and Strike Options.
In 2024, President‑elect Donald Trump met Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek at Mar‑a‑Lago to discuss crypto policy, including a proposed Bitcoin reserve, the same day the company dropped its lawsuit against the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
India’s Union Budget for 2026–27, introduced on 1 February (Sunday), has left the country’s controversial crypto tax regime untouched, while introducing a new penalty framework to tighten reporting compliance and unveiling a broader push to position India as a long-term hub for AI, data centres, and semiconductor manufacturing.
Despite sustained lobbying from the domestic crypto industry, the government chose to retain the existing 30 percent tax on crypto gains and the 1 percent tax deducted at source (TDS) on transactions. However, amendments proposed in the Finance Bill, 2026, signal a sharper enforcement approach toward crypto-asset reporting.
Under the proposed amendments, entities required to report crypto-asset transactions under Section 509 of the Income-tax Act would face financial penalties for non-compliance, effective 1 April 2026.
As noted in the Budget, failure to file the mandated statement would attract a penalty of ₹200 ($2.2) per day for the duration of the default. Meanwhile, filing incorrect information or failing to correct errors after notification would result in a flat penalty of ₹50,000 ($555).
The changes would be implemented through amendments to Section 446 of the Act, with the government stating that the measures are intended to discourage inaccurate or incomplete disclosures and improve oversight of crypto activity.
While enforcement has been strengthened, the decision to leave headline taxes unchanged disappointed industry participants, many of whom argue that the current structure suppresses trading volumes, reduces domestic liquidity, and pushes activity toward offshore platforms.
Alongside its crypto stance, the Budget outlines a long-term technology and infrastructure strategy centred on artificial intelligence, cloud services, and semiconductor manufacturing.
Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw said the government views data centres, particularly AI data centres, as foundational infrastructure, noting that investment commitments of around $70 billion are already underway, with an additional $90 billion announced.
To attract global operators, the Budget proposes a tax holiday until 2047 for foreign companies providing cloud services to international customers using Indian data centres, provided services to Indian customers are routed through domestic reseller entities. A 15 percent safe harbour on costs has also been proposed where Indian data centre providers are related entities.
The Budget also announced the launch of India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0, backed by an allocation of ₹1,000 crore for FY 2026–27.
ISM 2.0 expands the scope beyond fabrication to include:
The government also increased funding for the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) from ₹22,000 crore to ₹40,000 crore, following unexpectedly strong industry demand.
Commenting on the Budget, Ankit Goel, Chairman & Founder of Space World Group, said the measures reflect a structural shift in how India is approaching growth. “Union Budget 2026 marks a clear push toward a more connected, AI-powered India.”
Goel pointed to public capital expenditure of ₹12.5 lakh crore, tax exemptions for data centres, and renewed focus on semiconductors as signals of long-term intent.
“Growth hinges on reliable connectivity, efficient data flows, and scalable AI ecosystems. With nearly one billion Indians online and digital industries accelerating, these rival roads and power.”
However, he cautioned that execution will determine outcomes. “India’s growth enters a smarter phase. Direction is set; impact depends on execution.”
While the Budget’s technology and manufacturing agenda offers clarity on long-term digital infrastructure, the decision to leave crypto taxation unchanged underscores the government’s cautious approach toward the sector.
A recent report by crypto tax compliance platform KoinX found that over 72 percent of trade volume in India’s bitcoin business moved to offshore exchanges in FY25, rather than disappearing. The shift was driven by tax regulations, which encouraged traders to look for simpler options abroad rather than by hype or crashes.
Meanwhile, prior to the Budget, Tax Survey Report 2026 by CoinSwitch noted rising dissatisfaction among crypto investors with the country’s Virtual Digital Asset (VDA) tax regime. The findings show that investors are not calling for tax removal but are seeking rationalisation and alignment with traditional financial markets.
The survey, based on responses from nearly 5,000 crypto investors across India, shows strong awareness of existing tax rules. Around 88 percent of respondents say they understand the current framework, which includes a 30 percent tax on gains, a 1 percent tax deducted at source on transactions and no provision for loss set off or carry forward. Of these, 66 percent say they are fully aware of the details.
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Over 72 percent of trade volume in India’s bitcoin business moved to offshore exchanges in FY25, rather than disappearing. The shift was driven by tax regulations, which encouraged traders to look for simpler options abroad rather than by hype or crashes. A survey released on 29 January by crypto tax compliance platform KoinX revealed this trend.
Indian traders generated nearly Rs 51,252 crore in crypto trading volume, but much of it shifted from domestic exchanges to offshore platforms. The market is largely driven by retail participants, who are quick to adjust their behaviour when transaction costs rise, with tax burdens pushing many to seek alternatives outside India.
In FY25, more than 72 percent of India’s crypto trading volume took place on offshore exchanges, marking a significant shift in where activity occurs. The analysis, based on data from over 670,000 users across FY24 and FY25, shows a clear pattern of traders moving away from domestic platforms and highlights how behaviour has changed at scale.
Due to tax regulations that apply to all transactions, regardless of profit or loss, Indian cryptocurrency traders relocated abroad in FY25. For regular traders in particular, the 1 percent TDS on every sell order caused ongoing frustration. While offshore platforms offered more seamless execution and continuous trading without frequent deductions or capital lock-ups, domestic exchanges also saw less liquidity, which increased slippage.
The existing cryptocurrency tax system in India levies a 1 percent TDS on each transaction, which reduces liquidity and makes frequent trading costly. Additionally, traders pay full tax on profits even if they experience losses elsewhere, because gains are taxed at 30 percent without the ability to offset losses.
Our Year-End Report for Indian Crypto Tax FY 2024–25 is now LIVE.
We derived insights from ₹70,000+ Cr in user trading volume.
Here Are The Key Highlights:
1) KoinX users alone paid ₹130+ Cr in crypto TDS (over 25% of India’s total).
2) ₹38.52 Cr was over-collected as TDS… pic.twitter.com/qplAJufSSU
— KoinX (@getkoinx) January 29, 2026
In FY25, Indian crypto traders saw profits of about Rs 6,394 crore but also losses of Rs 4,781 crore across different types of trades, showing how volatile the market can be. Despite overall net losses of more than Rs 1,100 crore, they still paid around Rs 180 crore in capital gains tax—tax charged on profits that were later erased, leaving many feeling the system is unfair.
As per report in FY25, crypto TDS collections totalled Rs 511.83 crore, with over a quarter of this coming from a small group of users. Fewer than 5 percent of traders accounted for most of the payments, showing that the burden fell mainly on active participants, while casual users contributed very little.
In FY25, offshore exchanges gained popularity among Indian traders due to their lack of automatic TDS deduction, which reduced the immediate impact on trading activities. These platforms were perceived as providing greater flexibility, enabling traders to manage compliance without the continuous strain of money being depleted on every transaction, even though they were not tax-exempt.
Several global exchanges registered with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to restart services, but this step did little to ease the tax burden. Enforcement remained uneven across platforms, leaving many traders with the impression that offshore exchanges were simpler to use.
Many Indian cryptocurrency traders switched to futures and margin trading in FY25, where efficiency is important but the effects of TDS are more pronounced. Funds were swiftly transferred overseas for active trading, and domestic markets were frequently utilised simply as entry points. This transfer of volume abroad also meant a loss of innovation, data, and tax income at home, while India missed the chance to establish a stronger local ecosystem that could have supported start-ups, jobs, and fintech growth under clearer laws.
Local platforms would become more appealing once again as a result of tax reforms that lessen the burden on traders and contribute to the restoration of liquidity on domestic exchanges. A more equitable structure would promote compliance without alienating individuals. Dependence on offshore exchanges is likely to persist in the short term, but in the long run, clearer regulations could either make India a major participant in the global cryptocurrency industry or keep it on the sidelines.
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A major US crypto regulation bill appears to be in jeopardy after Coinbase withdrew its backing and Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott postponed a key vote, as reported by several media outlets. While the setback has rattled crypto equities, lawmakers and industry leaders insist the legislative fight is far from over.
The Senate Banking Committee was scheduled to vote 15 January (Thursday) on the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, a sweeping proposal intended to establish clearer rules for cryptocurrency markets. The committee had released a draft of the legislation earlier last week, raising hopes for progress on long-awaited crypto market structure reform.
Those plans unraveled on 14 January (Wednesday) when Coinbase abruptly pulled its support for the bill, prompting Sen. Scott, a South Carolina Republican, to delay the vote. The move followed growing controversy around provisions that would effectively ban most stablecoin rewards, or interest payments, offered by crypto platforms.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said the company could not support the current draft, citing several concerns in a post on X, including what he described as a “de facto ban” on tokenized stocks and restrictions on decentralized finance. However, the prohibition on stablecoin rewards is widely viewed as the core issue.
Crypto exchanges such as Coinbase argue they should be allowed to pay customers a yield for holding stablecoins on their platforms. Banks strongly oppose that idea, warning it could siphon deposits from the traditional banking system.
As reported by Barron’s, community banks, in particular, have raised alarms. Last month, the Independent Community Bankers of America estimated that allowing interest on stablecoin holdings could reduce community bank deposits by $1.3 trillion and cut lending by $850 billion. Unlike major banks, smaller institutions often lack the scale to issue their own stablecoins.
Under the draft legislation, interest payments would be banned for stablecoins simply held on trading platforms, but rewards could still be earned when the assets are actively used, such as through staking, selling, or posting them as collateral.
With the Senate now entering recess, any Banking Committee vote is unlikely before February. TD Cowen analyst Jaret Seiberg wrote in a research note that the delay benefits banks, as the crypto bill could have served as a legislative vehicle for unrelated measures, including a proposed 10 percent cap on credit-card interest rates recently endorsed by former President Donald Trump.
Still, momentum for crypto regulation has not completely stalled. The Senate Agriculture Committee is advancing separate legislation that would govern crypto “commodities” such as Bitcoin. A committee vote on that bill remains scheduled for later this month.
Recently, US lawmakers submitted more than 75 amendments to the crypto market structure bill ahead of a Senate Banking Committee hearing. The proposals cover issues ranging from stablecoin rules to ethics standards for public officials, according to a document obtained by CoinDesk.
In another recent development, the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced that national banks may now act as intermediaries in cryptocurrency transactions. This decision marks a change in how the financial system engages with digital assets. For years, banks maintained a cautious stance towards crypto. The new guidance permits regulated institutions to facilitate crypto trades under established compliance standards, signalling a shift in the relationship between traditional finance and digital currencies.
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India’s relationship with cryptocurrency remains complex, marked by a large user base, regulatory uncertainty, and high taxation. Earlier this month, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) issued updated AML and CFT rules for Virtual Digital Asset (VDA) service providers, tightening compliance requirements and bringing crypto regulation back into focus ahead of the Union Budget 2026. In Budget 2025, the government retained the existing VDA tax framework despite industry appeals for relief, a regime first introduced in Budget 2022 when cryptocurrencies were formally classified as VDAs. Under the Income Tax Act, Sections 115BBH and 194S continue to govern the taxation of cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and other digital tokens.
VDAs include cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, NFTs, and other blockchain-based tokens, serving as digital forms of value. In India, their use has grown significantly, with millions involved in trading, investing, and building around them. Despite this growth, regulatory uncertainty and taxation continue to create challenges, leaving adoption strong but progress cautious.
To address the risks of money laundering and illicit financing associated with the cryptocurrency industry, and to bring India into compliance with international standards such as FATF recommendations, FIU-India has updated its AML and CFT guidelines. Stricter KYC standards, customer identification verification, record-keeping, and frequent reporting are among the mandatory compliance criteria that the updated framework imposes on cryptocurrency exchanges and VDA service providers.
Like banks, platforms must also monitor transactions, identify suspicious activity, and carry out regular risk assessments. The regulations reinforce the government’s intention to increase control and accountability in cryptocurrency transactions involving Indian users and apply to any organisation providing VDA-related services to customers in India, including overseas platforms.
The new guidelines aim to strengthen trust and transparency in crypto transactions. Stricter compliance measures can make users feel more secure, while also aligning India’s rules with global standards as countries such as the US, Singapore, and those in the EU tighten oversight. This places India more firmly within the international regulatory framework.
In the 2022 Budget, India introduced a flat 30 percent tax on income from the transfer of VDAs, along with a 1 percent Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on every transaction, regardless of profit or loss. Additionally, crypto received as a gift is taxed in the hands of the recipient.
Since the 2022 announcements, the crypto industry has seen little change, with no major updates or clarifications in subsequent budgets. This prolonged uncertainty has slowed progress, as start-ups hold back, investors remain cautious, and skilled professionals look overseas. More than taxation, the lack of clarity has become the main barrier to growth.
Frequent traders have found the 1 percent TDS on cryptocurrency transactions burdensome, and many have switched to overseas platforms where these regulations do not apply. Reducing the rate to 0.01 percent would make compliance more feasible, lessen the temptation for users to relocate overseas, and retain oversight while easing the burden.
Unlike most other asset classes, losses from cryptocurrency trades cannot currently be offset against gains, which discourages balanced trading. Additionally, Web3 start-ups want to be able to deduct conventional business expenses such as wages, infrastructure, and office costs, just like other firms.
Indians are thought to have exchanged around ₹5 lakh crore on offshore markets between October 2024 and October 2025, resulting in the outflow of money, jobs, and data. These platforms operate outside Indian jurisdiction, which limits monitoring, weakens grievance redressal, and raises systemic risks, especially during periods of global financial turmoil.
The challenge lies in enforcing laws that ensure safety without obstructing progress. Regulations should act as guardrails to promote innovation and provide structure. Clear support for compliant platforms can reduce the influence of non-compliant participants and eliminate the need for blanket prohibitions.
The VDA sector is seeking clearer regulations in Budget 2026 to reduce uncertainty and provide a solid foundation for expansion. In addition, fairer taxation is considered necessary to encourage compliance, support revenue generation, and enable more sustainable innovation. Leading centres for Web3 development, such as Singapore, strike a balance between innovation and regulation. With its vast talent pool, scale, and rising demand, India has the potential to play a significant role in shaping the global development of digital assets.
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During this week’s EU startup summit, while the Prime Minister of Malta made his way through high-tech expo stands and camera flashes, declining that day to address the press, it was George Gregory, the newly appointed CEO of Malta Enterprise, who was tasked to step forward in his place. It clearly reflected growing trust in Gregory’s ability to represent the country’s economic vision on the public stage.
Cape Town played host to SiGMA Africa 2025, powered by Play’n GO, a landmark event that brought together 2,500 delegates, 150+ speakers, and key players from the iGaming, tech, and digital industries. The summit provided a platform for meaningful discussions on Africa’s regulatory landscape, market opportunities, and the convergence of gaming with blockchain and fintech.
SiGMA Asia 2025 is set to take place from June 1 to 4, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center in the Mall of Asia Complex, Manila, Philippines. Endorsed by PAGCOR, the event brings together industry professionals from across the globe, featuring over 20,000 delegates, 350+ expert speakers, and a wide range of exhibitors from the iGaming, tech, and regulatory sectors.
In the latest episode of the SiGMA Pokerface Podcast, professional poker player, writer, and commentator David K. Lappin joins Ivonne Montealegre, SiGMA Poker Tour Operations Manager, to unpack an 18-year journey from screenwriting to the high-stakes world of poker.
South Korea has introduced new guidelines allowing listed companies and professional investors to trade cryptocurrencies. Several media outlets reported that the government’s 2026 Economic Growth Strategy, which includes stablecoin laws and licencing for spot cryptocurrency ETFs, is in line with this action. It lifts a nine‑year restriction that had left the market dominated by retail investors.
In 2017, South Korea banned corporate participation in cryptocurrency trading due to concerns about money laundering, market manipulation, investor protection, and financial stability. The move left the country’s crypto market dominated by retail investors, who at one point accounted for nearly all trading activity. Meanwhile, institutional capital moved abroad, with an estimated 76 trillion won ($52 billion) leaving Korea for more favourable markets. By contrast, in the US, institutions made up over 80 percent of trading volume on Coinbase in the first half of 2024.
South Korea’s new guidelines allow publicly listed companies and registered professional investment corporations, about 3,500 entities, to trade cryptocurrencies. Firms can invest up to 5% of their equity capital annually, and only cryptocurrencies ranked in the top 20 by market capitalisation on the country’s major exchanges are permitted. This excludes meme coins, micro‑cap projects, and high‑risk tokens, focusing instead on assets with established liquidity and market depth.
Regulators in South Korea are still considering whether stablecoins such as Tether (USDT) will be included, with concerns around currency sovereignty, capital controls, and monetary policy likely to shape strict rules before approval. The government has also announced progress towards approving spot Bitcoin ETFs, which would make cryptocurrency accessible through traditional stock exchanges and allow participation from pension funds, asset managers, and other institutional investors.
South Korea’s new framework requires exchanges to manage risk by breaking large orders into smaller trades, executing them gradually, and monitoring unusual activity. These measures are designed to reduce price volatility, prevent market manipulation, and maintain liquidity.
South Korea’s crypto market has long been dominated by retail investors, leading to volatility and limited risk management. The entry of institutions is expected to bring greater liquidity, professional oversight, and longer‑term strategies. With legal access restored, significant capital could return to domestic markets, supporting growth within the country rather than moving abroad.
There are no investment caps in the US, and major Bitcoin holdings are held by publicly traded firms like Tesla and MicroStrategy, as well as by institutions that actively trade spot assets, ETFs, and derivatives. Japan allows corporations to own cryptocurrency, and companies like Metaplanet have reserves of Bitcoin. The European Union and Hong Kong have introduced regulatory frameworks emphasising transparency, custody standards, and investor protection, but without limits on corporate exposure. South Korea differs by imposing caps, which sets it apart from these markets.
In comparison to other markets, industry leaders contend that South Korea’s 5 percent investment ceiling on corporate cryptocurrency holdings is unduly restrictive, impeding fund inflows and the growth of specialised investment firms. Without more flexibility, Korea can lose out on chances to establish businesses that employ cryptocurrency to increase company value, like MicroStrategy in the United States or Metaplanet in Japan. Opponents warn that as international markets develop, heavy regulation may impede Korea’s advancement.
South Korea’s 2026 Economic Growth Strategy includes cryptocurrency as part of its national plan. In September, the ruling Democratic Party launched a crypto policy task force with the aim of fostering growth in blockchain and digital asset innovation, reflecting the government’s intention to position Seoul as a global centre for the sector.
The FSC is expected to release final guidelines by January or February, with corporate trading set to align with the Digital Asset Basic Act, scheduled for introduction in the first quarter of 2025. If implemented as planned, institutional trading could begin before the end of the year. Over the longer term, the policy is expected to increase institutional liquidity, support the development of financial products, encourage blockchain start‑ups, and strengthen Korea’s global competitiveness.
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Colombia has moved to significantly strengthen oversight of cryptocurrency activity, as the National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN) introduces mandatory reporting requirements aligned with the OECD’s Cryptoasset Reporting Framework (CARF).
Under Resolution 000240, published on 24 December 2025, crypto exchanges and service providers will be required to disclose detailed user transaction data to the tax authority starting in 2026. The measures are designed to curb tax evasion and bring crypto activity more firmly within Colombia’s formal tax system.
As reported by Cryptopolitan, law firm Holland & Knight said the resolution was issued in compliance with Law 1661 of 2013 and Colombia’s commitments under the Multilateral Agreement for the Automatic Exchange of Information.
The rules require Cryptoasset Service Providers (PSCAs) to report all crypto transactions exceeding $50,000 carried out in Colombia. Providers must also submit detailed information on the type of crypto assets involved in each transaction, alongside identifying data on reportable users.
The regulation defines who qualifies as a reportable person and outlines specific exclusions, while extending obligations to both legal entities and individuals acting as crypto intermediaries.
According to DIAN, the framework aims to prevent the use of crypto assets for tax evasion by expanding automated monitoring of high-value digital asset activity.
Although Resolution 000240 came into force late last year, DIAN has designated 2026 as the first full observation period. Crypto users are therefore advised that all transactions conducted during the year will be recorded by service providers for submission to the tax authority.
DIAN has set May 2027 as the deadline for platforms to submit their first large-scale crypto transaction reports.
Before the new regulations, Colombian taxpayers had to voluntarily disclose cryptocurrency assets on their income tax returns, either as part of their net worth or as sporadic gains. However, self-reporting was a major component of enforcement.
According to Holland & Knight, the new system increases the cost of compliance for both platforms and consumers by switching reporting from voluntary disclosure to automatic inspection.
While the $50,000 threshold applies to transaction reporting, DIAN will also electronically process information related to users’ tax residences and net crypto balances, excluding commissions. This information may be reported even if users do not exceed the transaction threshold.
Holland & Knight warned that retail users should be particularly aware of automatic alerts triggered by high-value transfers. Failure to report transactions accurately, or providing incomplete information, may result in fines of up to 1 percent of the unreported transaction value.
The firm stressed that the strict implementation timeline leaves little room for error, making transparency a legal obligation rather than a best practice.
Holland & Knight has advised crypto users in Colombia to maintain detailed personal records of crypto purchases and sales, including pricing and transaction histories. The firm noted that DIAN may require this information for cross-referencing purposes, particularly to verify the origin of crypto assets.
According to the lawyers, Colombia is closing the gap between tax enforcement and technological innovation, creating a more regulated environment for investors and a clearer pathway for integrating digital assets into the national tax system.
However, all submitted data must comply with rules governing updates to Colombia’s Single Taxpayer Registry, with regulated entities responsible for correcting and retaining records for a prescribed period.
Holland & Knight also cautioned that on-chain activity will no longer be effectively private for Colombian crypto users. Transactions involving assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins will now be shared between service providers and DIAN beginning with the 2026 tax year.
The Crypto Council for Innovation has observed that Colombia is accelerating crypto regulation as part of broader efforts to formalise the sector. The country currently ranks 29th globally in crypto adoption, with more than five million Colombians estimated to own digital assets.
Many users rely on platforms such as Wenia, a centralised crypto service incorporated in Bermuda, highlighting the cross-border nature of the compliance challenge facing regulators and service providers alike.
Meanwhile, Argentina is also considering a major policy shift that would allow domestic banks to trade digital assets and offer crypto-related services. The Central Bank of the Argentine Republic (BCRA) is reviewing its current framework, which prohibits banking institutions from participating in digital asset activities.
Elsewhere, the UK Treasury has prepared new legislation that will regulate cryptocurrency markets in the same way as traditional financial products, with the changes expected to come into force in 2027.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, Swiss crypto-focused AMINA Bank AG has become the first international bank to receive approval from the country’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) to offer institutional crypto trading and custody services, marking a major milestone in the city’s push to attract global digital-asset firms.
Despite a sharp pullback in cryptocurrency prices, industry developments in 2025 may have laid the groundwork for broader mainstream adoption in 2026, according to analysis by The Motley Fool.
Since early October, the total cryptocurrency market capitalisation has fallen from approximately $4.2 trillion to $2.9 trillion, rattling investor confidence amid heightened volatility. However, beneath the price action, the digital asset sector has recorded several regulatory and institutional milestones that were considered improbable just a few years ago.
In the United States, policymakers have moved decisively toward integrating crypto into the financial system. The federal government announced plans to begin holding Bitcoin (BTC) as part of its strategic reserves, while lawmakers passed a comprehensive legislative framework governing stablecoins. At the same time, US financial regulators adopted a more constructive stance, dropping enforcement actions initiated under previous administrations.
Recently, the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced that national banks may now act as intermediaries in cryptocurrency transactions. This decision marks a change in how the financial system engages with digital assets.
Bitcoin also reached new all-time highs earlier in 2025, while traditional financial institutions expanded their crypto offerings, introducing new investment products and custody solutions. Together, these developments may position cryptocurrency for wider adoption next year.
One of the most significant catalysts for crypto adoption in 2026 could be the growing role of stablecoins in everyday payments. Stablecoins are blockchain-based tokens pegged to fiat currencies such as the US dollar, enabling near-instant, low-cost transactions across borders. Their adoption accelerated after the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins Act, known as the GENIUS Act, became law in July 2025, providing regulatory clarity for banks and payment providers.
With compliance frameworks now in place, stablecoins are expected to evolve beyond their traditional use in crypto trading. A report by McKinsey projects that the value of stablecoins in circulation could rise from $250 billion in 2025 to $2 trillion by 2028, signalling a potential shift toward mainstream payment adoption.
As reported by the Motley Fool, another major trend shaping crypto’s future is the tokenisation of real-world assets (RWAs), which allows ownership of assets such as equities, real estate and intellectual property to be represented on the blockchain.
Tokenisation reduces transaction friction, improves liquidity and lowers barriers to entry by enabling fractional ownership. Industry observers compare its potential impact to the introduction of fractional stock trading, which transformed access to high-priced equities for retail investors.
While regulatory and technological challenges remain, adoption is accelerating. Data from rwa.xyz shows that tokenised real-world assets grew from less than $2 billion at the start of 2024 to more than $18 billion, with nearly half tied to tokenised US Treasuries. Further expansion is expected in 2026 as more asset classes migrate on-chain.
Clearer regulation has also unlocked greater institutional participation in digital assets, particularly through exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
Spot Bitcoin ETFs have rapidly accumulated assets, with total net assets rising from around $30 billion shortly after their January 2024 launch to nearly $125 billion, according to Coinglass data. While Bitcoin’s recent price decline triggered some institutional outflows, analysts suggest long-term capital remains relatively resilient.
A Bernstein report described institutional inflows as “sticky,” indicating they could support new Bitcoin highs in 2026 and 2027. Meanwhile, State Street Investment Management reported that 86% of institutional investors either held or planned to acquire Bitcoin in 2025, a trend expected to continue into next year.
HashKey Holdings Ltd, founded in 2018, set out to integrate digital assets into regulated financial systems. The company positioned itself as a link between traditional finance and the growing digital asset sector in Asia. HashKey provides asset management, brokerage, tokenisation, staking, and over‑the‑counter trading, and operates Hong Kong’s largest licensed cryptocurrency exchange. Its services cater to both institutional and retail investors.
HashKey raised about HK$1.6 billion (approx. $208 million) through its Initial public offering (IPO), pricing shares at HK$6.68 each, near the top of its range. The company became the first cryptocurrency firm to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The listing highlights that regulated crypto businesses can operate within Hong Kong’s financial framework.
HashKey shares closed at HK$6.67 (approx. $0.87), down 0.15 percent from the offer price. The stock rose as much as 6.6 percent during the session before falling 8.4 percent to its intraday low. The Hang Seng Index rose almost 0.9 percent while HashKey ended flat, highlighting how crypto‑linked stocks are treated differently from ordinary shares. The market’s caution is reflected in the modest performance, which is noteworthy in contrast to the broader decline in cryptocurrency.
🎉 HashKey Holdings Limited is officially listed on the Main Board of HKEX!
As Asia’s first publicly listed digital asset company via an IPO in Hong Kong, this milestone marks the company's entry into a new stage of development and establishes a stronger foundation for its… pic.twitter.com/v22cmEntUX
— HashKey Group (@HashKeyGroup) December 17, 2025
Despite market volatility, the institutional tranche was oversubscribed 5.5 times, showing high participation. Due to strong interest from individual investors, retail demand reached around 394 times oversubscription. The oversubscription during a wider decline indicates that investors are paying attention to more than just short‑term price fluctuations.
Bitcoin fell by as much as 36 percent after reaching record highs above $126,000, reflecting sharp market swings. Other cryptocurrencies also moved lower, creating a challenging environment for crypto‑related listings.
Chairman and CEO Xiao Feng said short‑term volatility does not affect his outlook on digital assets. He noted that clearer rules and compliance frameworks are important for sustainable industry growth. Xiao added that crypto markets move in cycles and the company is focused on long‑term development.
Xiao stated, “My confidence is only growing stronger, and I am more optimistic than 10 years ago because there is more regulation and compliance guidance for us to follow, which will allow the industry to grow further.”
Mainland China banned cryptocurrency trading in 2021, citing risks such as fraud and pyramid schemes. Hong Kong has adopted policies supportive of digital assets to strengthen its role as a financial hub. HashKey operates within this framework, following national rules while using Hong Kong’s regulatory autonomy.
The business is still loss‑making, but it is prioritising cash flow and reinvestment ahead of immediate profits. Like early‑stage digital companies, management is adopting a growth‑first strategy. Instead of focusing on quick profits, the plan aims to establish digital finance infrastructure.
Funds will be directed towards blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity, and trading platforms. Alliances and regional expansion are also part of the plans. Operations continue to revolve around compliance.
Hong Kong’s Stock Exchange raised over $34 billion this year, its strongest since 2021. Crypto listings such as HashKey’s add diversity to the market. More IPOs are scheduled for December, indicating renewed activity.
Asia’s adoption rate leaves room for expansion. Tokenisation and wealth management could reshape asset ownership. Strong compliance may serve as a competitive strength. Short‑term volatility is expected, but long‑term prospects remain. Investors with patience gain exposure to regulated crypto growth.
Argentina is considering a major policy shift that would allow domestic banks to trade digital assets and offer crypto-related services. The Central Bank of the Argentine Republic (BCRA) is reviewing its current framework, which prohibits banking institutions from participating in digital asset activities, La Nación reported, citing sources familiar with the discussions.
The proposed changes would mark a significant departure from long-standing rules restricting banks from engaging with cryptocurrencies. La Nación’s sources did not disclose specific details or a regulatory timeline, but a senior representative from a major crypto exchange operating in Argentina said that the updated rules could be approved as early as April 2026.
Local exchanges and industry analysts say that opening the door for banks to access cryptocurrencies and offer digital asset products would likely trigger a new era of mainstream adoption in Argentina.
Argentina logged $93.9 billion in cryptocurrency transactions between July 2022 and June 2025, making it the second-largest market in Latin America, only surpassed by Brazil, according to the Block, citing a Chainalysis research from October.
With inflation pressures and a volatile peso continuing to drive demand for digital assets, analysts believe that bank-integrated crypto services could normalise crypto use across savings, payments, and cross-border transactions.
The developments in Argentina come as neighbouring Brazil, the region’s largest crypto market, strengthens its regulatory framework. Brazil fully included the digital asset industry in its financial legislation in 2025, requiring all crypto service providers to seek central bank authorisation in order to conduct business.
As regional governments attempt to strike a balance between innovation and consumer safeguards, analysts speculate that Argentina’s possible action may be an attempt to stay competitive and in line with more general Latin American regulatory tendencies.
Crypto adoption is gaining momentum around the world. In its recently released 2024 Payment and Settlement Report, South Korea’s central bank underlined its commitment to proactively influence regulatory frameworks for the use of cryptocurrency, most specifically stablecoins.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom recently introduced the Property (Digital Assets etc) Act, which formally classifies cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and tokenised instruments as a new category of personal property. India’s Madras High Court also declared in October that cryptocurrencies are “property” under Indian law, giving their holders the same legal protections as those of owners of material or monetary goods.
In related news, India is moving closer to introducing a central bank-backed digital currency (CBDC), designed to simplify transactions, reduce paper use, and offer faster, traceable payments built on blockchain technology. According to several media reports, Piyush Goyal, the minister of commerce, has announced that India will soon introduce a digital currency that is insured by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
India ranked first in cryptocurrency adoption for 2025, according to the sixth Chainalysis Global Crypto Adoption Index. The United States came in second, indicating a rise in activity in both nations. The research showed, market trends are being influenced by institutional investment and grassroots usage. India leads in all measured categories, including retail and institutional flows. The US rise is linked to higher institutional involvement following the approval of spot bitcoin ETFs. Pakistan, Vietnam, and Brazil complete the top five.