The cryptocurrency market on December 19 remains a hot topic for both investors and enthusiasts. While major digital assets have slightly dipped in price, a series of intriguing developments and forecasts continue to shape the industry's future. Let’s dive into the details!
Bitcoin and Ethereum Under Pressure, but No Cause for Panic
Bitcoin $BTC is trading at $101,316, down 2.16% over the past 24 hours.
Ethereum $ETH has also dropped, now priced at $3,674.76, marking a 4.20% decline.
Despite these corrections, analysts believe the market is merely consolidating after a recent bullish rally.
Key Events of the Day
1. #Kraken ken Launches Ink Blockchain
Kraken surprised the market by launching its second-layer blockchain, Ink, ahead of schedule. Built on OP Stack technology, Ink is designed to speed up transactions and reduce costs within the Ethereum network.
2. El #Salvador vador Adjusts Its Bitcoin Policy
In a significant move, El Salvador has made Bitcoin usage voluntary. Taxes will now only be payable in US dollars. This decision comes as part of a $1.4 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
3. #BlackRlock ckRock Questions Bitcoin’s Fixed Supply
Financial giant BlackRock stirred up debate by suggesting that Bitcoin's fixed supply may not be guaranteed. This has reignited discussions about Bitcoin's role as an anti-inflation asset.
Forecasts: What’s Next?
Experts predict that in the long term, cryptocurrencies could benefit from changes in U.S. Federal Reserve policies. Easing inflationary pressures under the new administration might bolster crypto prices in the coming months.
Conclusion:
While the market is currently undergoing a correction, major developments and statements highlight the growing interest in cryptocurrencies. Technological advancements, such as the launch of Ink, and political shifts, like those in El Salvador, are undoubtedly shaping the industry's future.
Stay tuned—this is just the beginning!

Two countries, two visions. El Salvador and Argentina have just formalized an agreement to boost the crypto sector in Latin America. By signing this agreement, Juan Carlos Reyes, president of the National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD) of El Salvador, and Roberto Silva, president of the National Securities Commission (CNV) of Argentina, are paving the way for an unprecedented regional collaboration. Here's an explanation.

The key points of this article:
* El Salvador and Argentina have signed a historic agreement to boost the crypto sector in Latin America.
* This partnership is based on the sharing of regulatory expertise and the ambition to increase the international visibility of crypto enterprises.

Argentina and El Salvador Collaborate on the Crypto Sector
Juan Carlos Reyes, the main crypto regulator in El Salvador and president of the Comisión Nacional de Activos Digitales (CNAD), and Roberto Silva, president of the Comisión Nacional de Valores of Argentina (CNV), have signed an agreement for the two countries to collaborate on cryptocurrency regulation.
While the details of the agreement are still unknown, Reyes stated on LinkedIn that the agreement aims to allow the two regulatory bodies to share their knowledge and experience in order to stimulate innovation in cryptocurrencies.
“We are pleased to announce the signing of a mutual collaboration and training agreement between the regulators of El Salvador and Argentina, with the aim of strengthening the digital assets industry in our region.”
Source: Juan Carlos Reyes on LinkedIn

A Common Bitcoin Regulation to Combat the Dollar
Argentine President Javier Milei has been ideologically open to cryptocurrencies and Bitcoin and is popular among Argentine cryptocurrency developers for his inflation-mitigation policies.
It should be noted that this partnership is based on two main aspects.
* Sharing of regulatory expertise: Leveraging its status as the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, El Salvador hopes to pass on its unique regulatory know-how.
* International ambition: By establishing strategic relations with partners like Argentina, El Salvador seeks to increase the visibility and influence of its regulated enterprises.
On the other hand, Argentina brings its reputation and also a population inclined to use cryptocurrencies, especially stablecoins. Together, the two countries aim to build an environment conducive to the flourishing of cryptocurrencies.
“Argentina is recognized for its dynamic innovation ecosystem, particularly in blockchain technologies, while El Salvador has experience in regulating the digital assets industry. This collaboration combines the strengths of the two countries to stimulate growth and adoption of these technologies.
Our vision:
Strengthen bilateral cooperation in the digital assets sector
Share knowledge and expertise to support the development of regulation and innovation.”
Source: Juan Carlos Reyes on LinkedIn

Strategic Political Support to Conquer the World
Behind this agreement lies a strong political will. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has put his country in the global spotlight by making Bitcoin an official currency in 2021.
In Argentina, President Javier Milei, known for his criticized and controversial positions, is favorable to cryptocurrencies. His economic policies aimed at reducing inflation and stimulating innovation reinforce the relevance of this partnership.
Thus, the statement by Juan Carlos Reyes mentions greater ambitions. Promotion of a global ecosystem, reduction of cross-border barriers, or bilateral promotion: the enthusiasm is as great as the ambitions.
“Recognizing that digital assets transcend geographical boundaries, the National Commission of Digital Assets (CDNA) aims to establish collaboration agreements with countries around the world. Our goal is to ensure that, while allowing digital assets to flow without barriers, the regulation is harmonious and unrestricted, thus promoting a global ecosystem of innovation, security, and prosperity.”
Source: Juan Carlos Reyes on LinkedIn

The Political Chessboard Takes Shape Regarding Bitcoin
Let's not be naive, though. El Salvador is facing international pressures, especially from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is said to have recommended abandoning this initiative due to risks to financial stability and consumer protection. In response, the Salvadoran government could relax its policy by making Bitcoin acceptance optional for merchants, thus paving the way for a $1.3 billion loan agreement with the IMF.
Meanwhile, President Nayib Bukele has announced the discovery of gold deposits near a volcano, suggesting potential exploitation to strengthen the national economy. However, El Salvador banned metal mining in 2017 to protect its fragile environment.
Lifting this ban could lead to environmental and social costs, not to mention the financial investments needed to develop a mining industry that complies with international standards.
Thus, El Salvador, like a tightrope walker, is seeking a balance between economic innovation and environmental and social imperatives, while navigating between national sovereignty and the requirements of international financial institutions. It's a perilous act that we are closely following.
#BTC☀ #Salvador #Argentina