Brazil is entering a new regulatory phase for crypto, stablecoins, and international digital asset operations. Starting in February 2026, new rules issued by the Central Bank of Brazil will introduce a comprehensive authorization framework for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), including exchanges, brokers, and custodians.
These changes significantly impact how international platforms operate in Brazil, especially those offering on/off-ramps, stablecoin services, OTC trading, and cross-border crypto flows.
Key reference and timeline
The core framework is based on Central Bank regulations commonly referenced as BCB Resolutions 519, 520, and 521.
February 2nd, 2026 is the main go live date for the authorization and operational framework.
Some additional provisions become applicable later, including items that take effect on May 4th, 2026 depending on the activity and operational setup.
Mandatory Licensing for Crypto Platforms
Under the new framework, all companies offering virtual asset services in Brazil must obtain authorization according to the new regulation. Providers will be classified by activity type, such as intermediation, custody, and brokerage, each with specific governance, cybersecurity, and operational requirements.
Foreign platforms will be required to operate through a locally authorized entity or regulated partner, with a defined transition period to comply with the new regime. In practice, the compliance effort is no longer optional. It becomes a core operating requirement for maintaining continuity, partner access, and scalable growth in Brazil.
Capital and Governance Requirements
The regulations introduce stronger capital and governance requirements, aligning crypto platforms more closely with traditional financial institutions.
Rather than specifying fixed thresholds publicly, the framework establishes activity-based requirements that increase operational discipline, strengthen risk management, and favor platforms with long-term market strategies.
This raises the bar for governance, internal controls, and financial resilience across the sector.
Stablecoins and FX Integration
One of the most impactful changes is the integration of crypto operations with Brazil’s foreign exchange framework. Stablecoin flows and certain international transfers will now fall under FX-related compliance, reporting, and traceability rules.
This means that crypto platforms must implement stronger controls over cross-border flows, counterparties, and transaction classification.
What This Means for International Exchanges and OTC Desks
For international crypto platforms, 2026 marks a shift from a lighter regulatory environment to a fully regulated operational model. Success in Brazil will increasingly depend on:
- Local regulatory partnerships
- FX and compliance alignment
- Robust AML and transaction monitoring
- Clear operational traceability
- Scalable on/off-ramp infrastructure
How GOWD Supports Regulated Crypto and FX Operations
At GOWD, we support exchanges, OTC desks, and institutional platforms with regulated infrastructure for Brazil.
From on and off-ramp integrations to Pix connectivity and FX-aligned settlement structures, our infrastructure is designed to help partners operate under evolving regulatory frameworks, without building full local infrastructure from scratch. As Brazil’s crypto and FX regulations take effect in 2026, having a regulated, local infrastructure partner becomes essential for compliant and scalable growth.