Belarus Launches Crypto Bank Framework Through New Presidential Decree

TLDR:

• Belarus President signs Decree No 19 creating legal framework for crypto banks combining digital tokens with banking
• Market entry requires High-Tech Park residency status and registration in National Bank’s crypto bank registry 
• Crypto banks operate under dual supervision from Hi-Tech Park Supervisory Board and National Bank regulations
• Framework enables hybrid financial products merging traditional banking security with blockchain transaction speed

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko signed Decree No 19 on January 16, 2026, creating a regulatory framework for crypto banks in the country. 

The decree permits High-Tech Park residents to combine token-based services with traditional banking operations. 

This development positions Belarus among nations actively integrating digital assets into mainstream financial systems.

Regulatory Structure and Market Entry Requirements

The decree defines a crypto bank as a joint-stock company authorized to merge digital token operations with conventional banking and payment services. 

Market entry requires dual qualification: companies must hold High-Tech Park residency status and secure registration in the National Bank’s crypto bank registry. 

This two-tier approval process ensures oversight from both technology sector authorities and traditional financial regulators.

Crypto banks will operate under regulations governing non-bank credit and financial institutions. Additionally, these entities must adhere to decisions issued by the Hi-Tech Park Supervisory Board. 

The combined oversight mechanism creates a supervisory framework that addresses both technological innovation and financial stability concerns.

The registration requirements establish clear entry barriers for prospective crypto banks. Only joint-stock companies meeting specific criteria can participate in this market segment. 

This structural requirement suggests authorities are prioritizing institutional participants over individual operators or smaller entities.

Operational Framework and Product Offerings

The dual regulatory model enables crypto banks to develop financial products combining traditional banking benefits with digital token technology. 

Customers will access services that merge established banking security with the speed and efficiency of blockchain-based transactions. This hybrid approach targets users seeking both innovation and regulatory compliance.

Crypto banks must maintain compliance with existing financial institution standards while implementing token-based solutions. 

The decree does not eliminate conventional banking regulations but rather extends them to cover digital asset operations. 

Financial institutions will navigate requirements from multiple supervisory bodies throughout their operations.

The framework positions Belarus as a jurisdiction encouraging financial technology development within structured oversight. 

Unlike some jurisdictions that separate crypto activities from traditional banking, Belarus permits integration under specific conditions. 

This approach reflects growing international recognition that digital assets require specialized but connected regulatory treatment rather than complete isolation from established financial systems.

The post Belarus Launches Crypto Bank Framework Through New Presidential Decree appeared first on Blockonomi.