According to ShibDaily, Bolivia's Banco Bisa has introduced a custody service for Tether's USDt stablecoin, marking a significant development in the country's evolving cryptocurrency landscape. This service allows customers to buy, sell, and transfer USDt within a regulated framework, reflecting a shift from Bolivia's previous stringent restrictions on digital assets. The initiative is supported by Bolivia's financial regulator, Autoridad de Supervisión del Sistema Financiero (ASFI), which aims to facilitate crypto transactions within the country's regulatory framework, thereby reducing risks associated with unregulated activities.
Banco Bisa's offering enables users to hold USDt for various transactions, including cross-border payments and sending funds to family members. To ensure secure operations, users are required to undergo a verification process, providing what the bank describes as "peace of mind" for clients engaging in crypto-related activities. The service includes pricing with a minimum purchase starting at 200 USDT and a daily transaction cap of 10,000 USDT. Transaction fees for crypto sales range from 35 to 100 bolivianos ($5 to $14.5), while cross-border transfers to dollar accounts incur a fee of 280 bolivianos ($40.5).
Bolivia's approach to cryptocurrency has evolved since its initial ban in 2014, when the government prohibited digital currencies not issued or regulated by Bolivian authorities, specifically targeting Bitcoin. Concerns over potential financial losses and the protection of the national currency were cited as reasons for the ban. However, recent regulatory adjustments have opened the door for more formalized crypto activities. On June 28, 2024, Bolivia officially lifted its prohibition on Bitcoin and other digital currencies, allowing financial entities to engage with these assets. Following the policy change, Bolivia's central bank reported a 100% increase in virtual asset trading, with an average monthly trading volume of $15.6 million recorded from July to September.
Banco Bisa's new service aligns with these regulatory updates, offering a structured pathway for customers to participate in the growing crypto market under regulated conditions. This development comes as Latin American nations increasingly adopt cryptocurrencies. For instance, Argentina experienced an estimated $91 billion in crypto deposits between July 2023 and June 2024, partly due to stablecoin transactions aimed at countering economic challenges such as inflation. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.
