The Central Bank of Brazil has adopted three resolutions that fundamentally change the regulation of the crypto asset market in the country. The new rules will come into effect on February 2, 2026, and will apply to both companies dealing with virtual assets and the specifics of conducting cryptocurrency operations internationally.
This is reported by Business • Media
Licensing and New Requirements for Companies
According to the adopted documents, the Central Bank is introducing mandatory licensing for companies that provide services related to virtual assets. These businesses will be divided into three categories: intermediaries, custodial companies, and crypto brokers. Operations in this field will only be permitted with an official license from the regulator.
In addition, the new requirements address issues of client security, anti-money laundering, corporate governance, information disclosure, and internal control. Special attention is given to the identification of crypto asset owners and the transparency of financial transactions.
Resolution No. 520 establishes clear operational rules for service providers in the virtual asset sector (SPSAV), while Resolution No. 519 outlines the procedures for obtaining licenses for new and existing companies. From now on, uniform standards and deadlines for submitting applications for the legalization of activities in the crypto asset sector will apply to all market participants.
Restrictions on International Transfers and New Reporting Standards
According to Resolution No. 521, some cryptocurrency operations are for the first time equated with currency and international capital transactions. This applies to international payments or transfers using crypto assets, transactions for fulfilling international obligations, transfers between wallets (provided the owner is identified), and the buying and selling of virtual assets pegged to fiat currencies.
For companies without authorization in the currency market, a limit of $100,000 is set for international transfers. Licensed operators must adhere to the standards applicable to traditional currency transactions. The new rules also extend to the use of crypto assets in external loans and direct foreign investments. The main goal of these changes is to enhance market efficiency, prevent regulatory arbitrage, and ensure the transparency of Brazil’s statistical data.
Starting May 4, 2026, companies will be required to report to the Central Bank on all transactions involving virtual assets related to the currency market and international capital.
“The Central Bank of Brazil has regulated the crypto asset market through three resolutions that will take effect in February 2026.”
Changes in the regulation of the crypto market are occurring against the backdrop of the legislative initiative PL 957/2025, which allows for the payment of salaries in crypto assets, provided that at least half of the amount is made in fiat currency.
In July 2025, the Central Bank of Brazil suffered a massive cyberattack, resulting in the theft of approximately $140 million through a software provider’s breach. Part of the stolen funds was laundered using Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT.