This week has been packed with significant developments in the cryptocurrency space. From Kevin O’Leary’s bold prediction that crypto will dominate the financial sector, over Russia’s crypto confiscation fund potentially serving as a stealth path to state reserves, the global landscape for digital assets is evolving rapidly. As nations and institutions wrestle with regulatory frameworks and technological advancements, the influence of cryptocurrencies continues to grow, shaping the future of finance in unprecedented ways.
IMF Recognises Bitcoin in Global Economic Reporting
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has officially integrated Bitcoin and other digital assets into its global economic reporting framework, marking a major shift in how cryptocurrencies are classified.
As part of the IMF’s latest Balance of Payments Manual (BPM7), released on March 20, Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies are now considered capital assets. These assets, which do not have corresponding liabilities, will be recorded in capital accounts as transfers of non-produced assets in cross-border transactions. Stablecoins, however, are categorised as financial instruments, aligning them with traditional financial assets.
The IMF also acknowledges that cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Solana may be treated as equity-like assets when held by investors across borders. Additionally, staking rewards could be classified similarly to dividend payments, reflecting the evolving role of crypto in the global financial system.
Trump’s Crypto Czar Meets UAE Officials on Digital Assets
David Sacks, the White House crypto and AI czar, recently met with Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s national security adviser, to discuss the expanding role of digital currencies and investment opportunities.
During his visit, Tahnoon met with U.S. officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. He also discussed AI and blockchain technology with top tech leaders such as Larry Fink, Satya Nadella, and Jensen Huang. The meetings underscored the growing importance of digital assets in global finance and the need for collaborative efforts to shape regulatory frameworks and technological advancements. Discussions included the UAE’s potential role in expanding global crypto adoption, investment in blockchain infrastructure, and fostering regulatory clarity for institutional crypto use. With the UAE already positioning itself as a crypto hub, the collaboration could strengthen cross-border digital asset policies and technological innovation.
Brazil Moves to Regulate Bitcoin Salary Payments
A new bill in Brazil could bring official regulation to salary payments in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Introduced by Federal Deputy Luiz Philippe de Orleans e Bragança, the bill PL 957/2025 seeks to legalise voluntary crypto salary payments while ensuring that at least 50% of wages are paid in the national currency, the Brazilian real.
The bill aims to boost Brazil’s fintech sector and attract crypto investment. Orleans-Bragança highlighted successful implementations in Switzerland, Japan, and Portugal, where regulations have enabled wider crypto adoption.
While Brazil moves toward regulated Bitcoin salaries, global approaches vary. Some nations, like Turkey and Russia, prohibit crypto payments, while El Salvador allows voluntary Bitcoin use but has restricted crypto tax payments under an IMF agreement.
Stay informed,
Rodcas Consulting Group