- Brazil’s central bank classifies stablecoin trades as foreign exchange operations under new crypto regulations.
- All crypto service providers must obtain authorization by November 2026 or cease operating in the country.
- Stablecoins account for nearly 90% of Brazil’s crypto flows, prompting tighter oversight and compliance measures.
Brazil’s central bank has unveiled comprehensive new rules governing the country’s digital asset market, extending anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures to cryptocurrency firms and Bitcoin service providers.
Announced in Brasília on November 10, the regulations represent Brazil’s most significant step since the 2022 crypto law. They aim to align virtual asset operations with traditional financial oversight, addressing growing risks linked to the use of stablecoins in cross-border transactions.
Stablecoins Classified Under Foreign Exchange Operations
The new framework, effective February 2026, classifies the purchase, sale, or exchange of fiat-backed stablecoins as foreign exchange operations. This includes international payments, transfers, and crypto-based card settlements.
The central bank said the move is designed to curb misuse of digital assets for illegal transfers, tax evasion, and fraudulent activities. Under the resolution, any transaction involving an unauthorized counterparty will be capped at $100,000.
Gilneu Vivan, the central bank’s director of regulation, stated that these controls will “reduce scams, fraud, and money laundering risks” in Brazil’s growing digital market. The updated rules also introduce requirements for governance, cybersecurity, and operational transparency. Crypto companies will be required to maintain compliance and risk management structures similar to those in conventional banks.
Strict Compliance Deadlines for Crypto Firms
According to the central bank, all crypto exchanges, brokers, and custodians must obtain official authorization by November 2026 or halt operations. These firms have nine months to meet technical standards covering cybersecurity, incident reporting, and risk protocols. Those failing to comply will be prohibited from conducting business in Brazil.
Officials noted that stablecoins currently dominate the nation’s crypto activity. Central bank governor Gabriel Galipolo revealed in February that nearly 90% of domestic crypto flows involve stablecoins, many used to bypass supervised payment channels. Authorities argue that while stablecoins show lower volatility than Bitcoin, their growing role in payments has created significant regulatory gaps.
Brazil’s Position in Global Crypto Oversight
Brazil’s new measures come as the country cements its place as Latin America’s crypto leader. Between July 2024 and June 2025, Brazil recorded approximately $318.8 billion in digital transactions, accounting for nearly one-third of regional activity. The nation now ranks fifth globally in crypto adoption, up from tenth the previous year.
The framework builds on the 2022 crypto law, which required complementary rules for implementation. Following four public consultations, the central bank finalized regulations designed to enhance transparency, safeguard users, and align with Financial Action Task Force standards.
During a press conference, Vivan said the reforms will “strengthen institutional trust” and improve oversight across Brazil’s digital economy. The initiative coincides with congressional discussions on Bill 4501/24, proposing a $19 billion Bitcoin reserve called RESBit, intended to diversify national assets and reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.
By classifying stablecoins as foreign exchange instruments and enforcing strict compliance, Brazil is moving toward a more transparent and secure digital asset environment. The new rules are set to take effect in February 2026.
