### Belarus Takes a Bold Step in Crypto Banking Regulation Belarus has officially entered the realm of cryptocurrency banking with the signing of Decree No. 19 by President Aleksandr Lukashenko on January 16, 2026. This decree legalizes the operation of crypto banks, allowing firms within the High-Tech Park (HTP) to offer regulated services that integrate traditional banking with digital assets. This move is seen as a significant advancement in Belarus's efforts to adopt cryptocurrency and enhance its financial landscape, particularly in light of increasing international sanctions and the need for economic diversification. The decree builds upon earlier initiatives from 2017 that provided exemptions for blockchain innovation in the HTP, indicating a long-term strategy to foster a robust digital economy in Belarus [https://coinpedia.org/news/belarus-establishes-crypto-bank-framework-under-national-bank-supervision][https://coinfomania.com/belarus-crypto-banks-get-legal-status-under-new-decree]. ### Structure of the New Crypto Banking Framework 1. **Legal Status and Oversight**: - The decree grants official legal status to crypto banks, which will operate under the supervision of the National Bank of Belarus, ensuring compliance with existing financial regulations [https://cryptobriefing.com/belarus-introduces-decree-regulate-cryptobanks]. 2. **Integration with Traditional Banking**: - Crypto banks will be allowed to offer services that combine fiat currency transactions with digital token operations, creating a hybrid banking model [https://blockonomi.com/belarus-launches-crypto-bank-framework-through-new-presidential-decree]. 3. **High-Tech Park Residency Requirement**: - To operate as a crypto bank, firms must be residents of the High-Tech Park, which is designed to promote innovation and attract investment in the tech sector [https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/crypto/belarus-establishes-rules-for-crypto-banks-check-out-the-details]. 4. **Focus on Digital Assets**: - The framework emphasizes the integration of digital assets into the financial system, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to banking that includes cryptocurrencies [https://coindoo.com/belarus-moves-to-regulate-crypto-banking-through-licensed-institutions]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Decree No. 19**: Signed on January 16, 2026, this decree is pivotal in establishing the operational rules for crypto banks in Belarus [https://coinlaw.io/belarus-crypto-banks-legal-decree]. - **Economic Context**: The move is partly a response to the economic pressures from Western sanctions, aiming to bolster Belarus's IT reputation and attract foreign investment [https://www.anews.com.tr/economy/2026/01/16/belarus-approves-cryptocurrency-bank-regulation]. - **Timeline for Implementation**: The first crypto bank is expected to launch within six months, indicating a rapid progression towards operationalizing this new framework [https://coincu.com/news/belarus-regulates-crypto-banks]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for Belarusian Banking In summary, **Belarus's Decree No. 19 marks a transformative moment for the country's financial system**, integrating cryptocurrency into regulated banking. The key points of this development include: 1. **Legalization of Crypto Banks**: Establishing a formal structure for crypto banking under state supervision. 2. **Hybrid Banking Model**: Allowing the combination of traditional and digital asset services. 3. **HTP Residency Requirement**: Ensuring that only qualified firms can operate as crypto banks. 4. **Strategic Economic Response**: Aiming to enhance Belarus's economic resilience amid international sanctions. This comprehensive framework not only positions Belarus as a forward-thinking player in the global crypto landscape but also sets a precedent for other nations considering similar regulatory approaches [https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/crypto/belarus-legalizes-crypto-banks-on-lukashenkos-order][https://www.coinspeaker.com/belarusian-president-signs-new-crypto-decree].