On Thursday, May 23, Argentina’s National Securities Commission (CNV) engaged in discussions with El Salvador’s National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD). This meeting highlights a growing interconnection between the two nations, focusing particularly on Bitcoin (BTC) adoption and regulation strategies.

Is Argentina Following El Salvador’s Bitcoin Path?

Roberto E. Silva, the President of CNV, along with Vice-President Patricia Boedo, met with Juan Carlos Reyes, President of CNAD, to delve into El Salvador’s pioneering journey as the first nation to officially incorporate Bitcoin as legal tender. The discussions aimed at drawing from the Central American country’s regulatory and operational experiences with digital assets, according to an official press release.

Dr. Silva expressed admiration for El Salvador’s leadership in the digital asset domain, noting, “El Salvador has emerged as one of the leading countries, not only in the use of Bitcoin but has also excelled in the world of crypto assets. It has created a specific commission, the National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD), and therefore has experience that is very valuable for the CNV at this time.” He further emphasized the intent to “strengthen ties with the Republic of El Salvador” and explore potential collaboration agreements.

Dr. Boedo shared insights from her recent technical visit to El Salvador, underscoring the significant learnings from their approach to cryptocurrency regulation and market development. “I want to highlight El Salvador’s experience in the world of crypto-assets. I had the opportunity to exchange experiences during my visit to that country and I believe it is essential to continue strengthening ties with a pioneer Republic in the subject, which has vast experience in the field,” she stated.

From the Salvadoran perspective, Juan Carlos Reyes remarked on Argentina’s technological prowess and its proactive stance towards efficient industry regulation. “Argentina is a pioneer in technology and the National Securities Commission understands and wants to work efficiently with the industry and create appropriate regulations,” said Reyes. He appreciated the bilateral dialogue, which marks a step forward in establishing a robust regulatory framework for digital assets.

The discussions come at a time when Argentina is actively exploring enhanced regulatory measures for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. In recent developments, the CNV, along with the Financial Information Unit (UIF) and the Argentine Fintech Chamber, engaged in discussions aimed at implementing new regulations for Bitcoin exchanges. This follows a confirmation in March about moving forward with supervisory and regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrency exchanges.

These agreements between Argentina, under the liberal president elected in November, Javier Milei, and El Salvador, illustrate an earnest attempt by both governments to harness the potential of Bitcoin and digital currencies while ensuring robust regulatory measures are in place.

Notably, it has not been disclosed whether Argentina has asked for guidance on how to make Bitcoin legal tender or adopt it for its treasury.

At press time, BTC traded at $68,400.

Featured image created with DALL·E, chart from TradingView.com