Kyrgyzstan’s Central Bank Authorizes Escrow Accounts for Crypto Transactions
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic (NBKR) has amended its 2012 banking regulations to permit commercial banks to establish escrow accounts for cryptocurrency and digital token transactions. This move introduces a risk-mitigation mechanism where a neutral third party holds funds until contractual conditions are met, mirroring the security functions of blockchain-based smart contracts and multi-signature wallets.
Escrow services aim to reduce fraud and financial risks in crypto dealings, offering institutional credibility to a market often perceived as volatile. The decision reflects Kyrgyzstan's progressive stance on digital asset adoption, aligning with global trends toward regulated crypto infrastructure.