Russia’s biggest state-owned bank, Sberbank, is moving into the crypto space. It aims to offer custody services for domestic digital assets. The bank has already sent proposals to the central bank. Its goal is to keep tokens secure and treat them like regular bank assets.
This aligns with recent softening by Russian regulators toward crypto use in international trade. In China, the Academy of Industrial Internet gathered experts to discuss stablecoins and industrial digital assets. Officials from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology attended.
Talks focused on policy, digital transformation, and how stablecoins connect with real-world assets. Pakistan’s crypto advisor Bilal Bin Saqib traveled to El Salvador. He met with President Bukele and signed a letter to collaborate on the Bitcoin strategy.
They plan to work on national adoption and digital finance frameworks. Pakistan is using El Salvador’s experience as a guide. Despite IMF pressure, the country has allocated 2,000 megawatts for Bitcoin and AI. Kazakhstan is also considering crypto investments.
Crypto fund planned by the Central Bank
The central bank governor confirmed plans to invest part of the national reserve in digital assets. Authorities will create a state crypto fund using confiscated assets. State-run firms may join mining operations, with profits flowing into this new fund.
In Japan, the Blockchain Association wants tax changes. It proposed a flat 20.315% tax on crypto trades, instead of the current higher rates. The group warned of capital flight and liquidity loss if policies stay unchanged. They argued the tax model should match that of stocks and ETFs.
Meanwhile, BitMart launched the second phase of its Slippage Protection Program. It now covers full-position losses and starts at a lower threshold. A new incentive system adds extra protection for users. The upgrade runs until the end of July.
Thailand launches crypto tourism sandbox
Malaysia hosted its first official blockchain week. Ministers praised the technology and promised regional growth. The event included pitch days, hackathons, and community giveaways. Thailand rolled out a crypto tourism sandbox. The program lets tourists convert digital coins into Thai baht through licensed platforms.
It only applies to short-term visitors and follows strict licensing rules. In Hong Kong, stablecoin license applications are flooding in. Regulators have capped the process, issuing forms only after initial approval. Major firms, including state-backed groups, are among the interested parties.
Shanghai’s court exposed a major illegal exchange ring. The group used USDT to move billions overseas through shell firms. They offered unlawful exchange services and earned through fees. Lastly, Charles Schwab became the second-largest shareholder in Metaplanet, owning nearly 9% of the firm.
