Crypto News Roundup: Argentina's New Rules, U.S. Bitcoin Reserve Bill, and More

If you're wondering what’s happening in the crypto world today, here’s a quick rundown of the latest developments impacting Bitcoin, blockchain, DeFi, NFTs, Web3, and crypto regulation.

Argentina Finalizes Regulations for Crypto Service Providers

Argentina has officially introduced new regulations for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), aiming to provide a clearer framework for cryptocurrency exchanges and platforms facilitating digital asset transactions. On March 13, the National Securities Commission (CNV) published General Resolution No. 1058, detailing the new rules, which include mandates on registration, cybersecurity, asset custody, money laundering prevention, and risk disclosure for VASPs.

The regulations are designed to enhance transparency, stability, and user protection in Argentina’s crypto ecosystem. Key requirements include the mandatory separation of company and client funds, annual audits, and monthly reporting to the CNV. VASPs must also register with the country’s virtual asset service provider registry (PSAV), which has been in place since 2024. Noncompliance could result in registration revocation or a court order to block the company’s operations. This move aims to strengthen the regulatory framework around crypto firms in Argentina and align them with global standards.

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds to Introduce Bill Codifying Trump's Bitcoin Reserve

In the U.S., the push for a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is gaining momentum. U.S. Representative Byron Donalds has announced plans to introduce a bill that would formalize former President Donald Trump’s executive order to establish a national Bitcoin reserve. Trump’s executive order, signed on March 7, directs the U.S. government to use Bitcoin seized in criminal cases to create the reserve, further integrating Bitcoin into the country’s financial strategy.

The new legislation aims to ensure that the Bitcoin reserve becomes a permanent fixture, preventing future administrations from dismantling it through executive actions. Rep. Donalds, a Florida Republican, stated that now is the time for Congress to take action and end the political resistance to cryptocurrency. If the bill passes, it would protect the reserve and the U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile from being eliminated by a future administration, requiring at least 60 votes in the Senate and a majority in the House to succeed.

Democrat Lawmaker Pushes Back Against U.S. Bitcoin Reserve

While the push for a U.S. Bitcoin reserve gains traction among Republicans, it faces opposition from some Democrats. House Representative Gerald E. Connolly of Michigan has criticized the idea, urging the U.S. Treasury to halt efforts to create a strategic crypto reserve. In a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on March 13, Connolly argued that the cryptocurrency reserve would offer “no discernible benefit to the American people” and could enrich the president and his supporters at the expense of taxpayers.

Connolly also expressed concerns that the reserve would involve preferential treatment for certain cryptocurrencies, which he described as “unsound fiscal policy.” However, the White House has clarified that the Digital Asset Stockpile will only include cryptocurrencies that have already been forfeited through legal processes. The Bitcoin reserve will also acquire assets through “budget-neutral” strategies, ensuring that taxpayer money is not used for the reserve’s creation.

Conclusion

Today's developments in the crypto space highlight the ongoing evolution of regulations and policies surrounding digital assets. Argentina’s new rules are an important step toward a more regulated crypto market, while the U.S. continues to debate the future of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. As these discussions unfold, the global regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency is becoming increasingly complex, with major developments expected in the coming months.

Stay tuned for more updates as these stories progress, shaping the future of crypto markets and regulations worldwide.