El Salvador has approved a new Investment Banking Law that grants financial institutions the right to hold Bitcoin and other digital assets on their balance sheets. This innovation separates investment banking from commercial banking, creating special conditions for activities in the digital finance sector.
This is reported by Business • Media
Licenses for Crypto Services and New Opportunities for Investors
According to a statement from the head of the Digital Assets Commission (CNAD), Juan Carlos Reyes, institutions that obtain a crypto service provider license (PSAD) will be able to operate as Bitcoin banks. They will also have the right to provide services to experienced investors, similar to accredited market participants in the U.S.
The adopted law allows investment banks to underwrite companies, issue securities, and conduct transactions in both local and foreign currencies. Authorities expect that these opportunities will enhance the country’s investment attractiveness and strengthen El Salvador’s position as a regional crypto-financial center.
Discussions on Benefits for the Population and International Cooperation
Supporters of the new law note that regulatory changes will pave the way for international investments and strengthen El Salvador’s role in the global financial market. At the same time, critics point out that the main benefits will accrue to the state and large businesses, while ordinary citizens have yet to experience significant advantages from the implementation of Bitcoin.
“The authorities believe this will enhance El Salvador’s attractiveness as a regional crypto-financial center and strengthen the influx of capital from institutional players.”
El Salvador continues to develop international cooperation in the cryptocurrency sector. In July 2025, President Nayib Bukele held talks with Pakistan’s State Minister for Digital Assets and Blockchain, Bilal bin Saqib, regarding the implementation of Bitcoin at the state level. Concurrently, energy policy measures to stimulate mining were discussed.
Additionally, on July 30, the Central Bank of Bolivia, together with CNAD, signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the use of cryptocurrencies as an alternative to traditional currencies. Against the backdrop of a currency crisis that complicated foreign trade, this decision became particularly relevant. According to Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino, this situation has led to an increase in the use of stablecoins pegged to the U.S. dollar for transactions.
It was previously reported that El Salvador had not made any Bitcoin purchases since February 2025.