15-3-2025 – Argentina’s National Securities Commission (CNV) has unveiled stringent regulations for virtual asset service providers, marking a watershed moment in the nation’s approach to cryptocurrency oversight.
The regulatory framework, codified under General Resolution No. 1058 and published on 13 March, establishes a robust foundation for cryptocurrency exchanges and digital asset platforms. These measures arrive against the backdrop of Argentina’s emergence as Latin America’s premier cryptocurrency hub, having surpassed Brazil with remarkable inflows of $91 billion between July 2023 and June 2024.
The new directives mandate critical operational safeguards, including the segregation of corporate and client assets, rigorous annual audits, and monthly submissions to the CNV. Roberto E. Silva, CNV’s president, has issued an unequivocal warning: firms failing to meet compliance standards face operational prohibition within Argentine borders.
A tiered implementation schedule has been established, with domestic PSAV-registered entities granted until 1 August to achieve compliance, whilst their international counterparts have until 1 September. Individual registrants must conform by 1 July.
Despite the recent controversy surrounding President Javier Milei’s endorsement of the LIBRA memecoin—which subsequently experienced a dramatic value decline—cryptocurrency adoption continues to flourish across Argentina. This surge in digital asset engagement largely stems from the Argentine peso’s persistent devaluation, prompting citizens to seek alternative stores of value, particularly in stablecoins such as USDt.
The regulatory framework’s scope encompasses cybersecurity protocols, custodial requirements, anti-money laundering measures, and comprehensive risk disclosure obligations. Legal expert Diego Fraga notes that non-compliant operators risk registry removal, with courts empowered to block unauthorised platforms.
This regulatory evolution follows the CNV’s earlier decree that brought cryptocurrency issuers under securities law jurisdiction, reflecting Argentina’s commitment to establishing a transparent and secure digital asset ecosystem whilst maintaining its position at the forefront of Latin American crypto adoption.
