Brazil Central Bank implements new cryptocurrency regulations

The Central Bank of Brazil has implemented new regulations for companies providing virtual asset services (SPSAVs), including intermediaries, traders, and custodians. Effective as of February 2, 2026, the rules—established via Resolutions BCB nº 519, 520, and 521—aim to align crypto exchanges with traditional financial market standards regarding security, transparency, and governance.

A key requirement is the mandatory separation of client funds from the exchange's own assets to mitigate the risk of misuse. Companies must also implement cybersecurity protections and submit to Central Bank supervision. Existing firms have until October 30, 2026, to formalize authorization requests to continue operating.

In response to these mandates, Binance has applied for a license to operate as a regulated service provider in Brazil. The exchange plans to expand beyond crypto trading to become a complete financial platform, offering services such as payments, international transfers, and foreign exchange. To comply with the dual-structure requirements, the company is utilizing Binance Brasil for fiat transactions and a newly created entity, B Brasil, for virtual asset operations.