Argentina Considers Allowing Traditional Banks to Trade Cryptocurrencies

Argentina's central bank is drafting regulations that could permit traditional banks to offer cryptocurrency trading and custody services, a move that would significantly alter the country's digital asset landscape. The proposed rules, reported by local outlet La Nacion, mark a departure from the current framework where exchanges and fintech platforms dominate crypto services.

The initiative aligns with broader government efforts to integrate cryptocurrency activity into the formal financial system. With inflation and currency controls driving Argentines toward digital assets as a store of value, the stakes for regulatory changes are particularly high. Estimates suggest crypto adoption in Argentina far exceeds the Latin American average.

While the central bank has not committed to a timeline, industry sources speculate the measure could be approved by April 2026. The potential shift reflects growing recognition of cryptocurrency's role in Argentina's economy amid persistent macroeconomic instability.