Brazil Tightens Grip: Stablecoins Now Treated as Forex

Brazil’s central bank is changing how it views crypto. From 2026, stablecoins will be treated the same way as foreign currency. This marks one of the country’s strongest steps yet to control the growing digital asset market.

The new rules come through a set of measures known as Resolutions 519, 520, and 521. They create a new category of licensed crypto companies in Brazil called SPSAVs, firms that will now operate under similar standards as banks. 

These standards include stricter checks on customers, money laundering safeguards, and clearer reporting of transactions. Brazil has been one of the most active crypto markets in Latin America. Millions of users rely on stablecoins for payments and savings. Regulators say this rapid growth has made oversight a national priority.

Stablecoin Transfers Under Forex Rules

Under the new policy, any trade or transfer involving a stablecoin will count as a foreign exchange operation. That means the same documentation and approval process used for dollar or euro transactions will now apply to stablecoin payments as well.

Crypto companies that are licensed locally will be allowed to handle these transactions. Deals involving unregistered foreign firms will face a $100,000 limit per transfer.

The rules also touch self-custody wallets, which let users hold their assets directly. When such wallets interact with a regulated platform, the company must verify the wallet owner and record the movement of funds.

Focus on Transparency and Stability

Officials say the aim is to bring more transparency and “legal certainty” to the crypto space. Additionally, central bank president Gabriel Galipolo said most crypto activity in Brazil, around 90 percent, comes from stablecoin use, mainly for payments.

The decision is part of a broader effort to reduce fraud and bring digital assets in line with the country’s financial reporting system. While smaller crypto firms may find the rules demanding, regulators believe this clarity will strengthen Brazil’s position as a serious player in digital finance.

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