New level of confrontation: The US, Russia step up the crypto race

As a seasoned analyst with over two decades of experience in global finance and technology markets, I have witnessed the evolution of economies and geopolitical dynamics from close quarters. The recent legalization of crypto mining in Russia and the U.S.’s ambition to become the world’s crypto capital is an intriguing development that warrants careful examination.

Discussing recent developments in the cryptocurrency sphere, it’s interesting to note that mining activities have now been officially sanctioned in Russia. Meanwhile, the U.S. appears to be gearing up for a significant role as a global hub for cryptocurrencies. So, let’s delve into the evolving crypto landscape between these two countries.

On August 8th, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved a law permitting cryptocurrency mining to become legal. With some exceptions, this legislation will take effect on November 1st. Furthermore, the president also signed a law enabling cross-border transactions and crypto exchange trading as trial legal systems starting from September 1st.

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What does this mean for the industry?

As a long-time cryptocurrency enthusiast and investor, I have seen firsthand the rapid evolution of the crypto market and the emergence of new players who are capitalizing on this burgeoning industry. However, I also understand that the lack of regulatory clarity has created a turbulent environment for miners, making it difficult for them to operate legally and legitimately. In my opinion, the implementation of clear laws and regulations will not only provide a level playing field for all participants but also give existing players an opportunity to legalize their income by operating officially. This, in turn, will foster greater trust and confidence among investors and users, ultimately leading to a more stable and secure crypto ecosystem. Furthermore, as someone who has navigated the complexities of this industry, I believe that understanding the specific challenges faced by miners is crucial for policymakers when crafting regulations, ensuring that they do not inadvertently create additional obstacles or hinder innovation.

On the contrary, the progression of mining activities could stimulate increased investment in advanced sectors of the Russian economy. Furthermore, by enacting legislation on cryptocurrency mining, Russia has entered the global competition among leading industries.

The U.S. is closely monitoring Russia’s attempts to use cryptocurrencies

Due to increasing financial restrictions starting from 2022, Russian companies have been encountering significant difficulties in making international trade payments. As a result, Russia has brought up the idea of adopting digital currencies to address these payment challenges.

In 2023, Elvira Nabiullina, chair of the Central Bank, permitted a trial run of cryptocurrencies for cross-border transactions. Then, in March 2024, President Putin enacted a law enabling the utilization of digital financial assets.

As reported by Bloomberg, by the end of May, two significant Russian metallurgical firms started utilizing Tether (USDT) and other digital currencies as a means of payment in transactions, primarily with Chinese business partners.

The fact that major Russian businesses are adopting blockchain technology about two years after the commencement of the February 2022 Ukrainian invasion highlights the enduring impact of global sanctions imposed due to the conflict on their economy.

Discussing the growth of the digital currency sector in Russia, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen noted that America keeps a close eye on Russia’s efforts to use cryptocurrencies instead of conventional payment methods because the complexity of current sanctions is making traditional settlements more difficult due to their tightening.

It was observed that the U.S. doesn’t currently believe Russia is extensively utilizing cryptocurrencies, yet this fact is growing increasingly worrisome due to the escalating American sanctions.

The U.S. tightens regulations, crypto community waits for Trump

During President Joe Biden’s tenure, the U.S. administration has been criticized for its skepticism towards cryptocurrencies. As a result, throughout this period, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has taken strict actions against crypto businesses, often involving multiple lawsuits.

In light of the expanding influence of the cryptocurrency community and the forthcoming U.S. presidential elections, politicians have significantly shifted their stance on cryptocurrencies.

It was apparent to presidential candidate Donald Trump earlier on, but during a speech in March, he expressed his strong backing for the cryptocurrency sector. Consequently, should Trump uphold his election pledges and win, there might be a surge in digital assets within the United States.

How the U.S. is joining the crypto race?

As a crypto investor, I’m eagerly anticipating the potential shift in U.S. crypto policies if Trump regains power, as he has promised to make the U.S. the global leader in cryptocurrency. This stands in stark contrast to what I perceive as a more restrictive regulatory approach that is often associated with the Biden administration.

“Should Bitcoin reach new heights, symbolically speaking, ‘the Moon,’ let’s make sure it’s America that takes the lead in this technological leap.”

The politician additionally pledged to dismantle the efforts of President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris against cryptocurrencies, and further promised to dismiss the current chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission on their first day in office.

During his presidency, Trump initially expressed skepticism and even criticism toward Bitcoin (BTC), labeling it as a “scam” and stating that he was not a supporter of it or other digital currencies. However, in a surprising shift, his recent speech showed an almost complete reversal of this stance, suggesting a significant change in viewpoint. This transformation can be likened to turning 180 degrees, implying a complete reversal of opinion. The reason for Trump’s initial hostility towards Bitcoin was that he believed it competed with the U.S. dollar, the world’s primary reserve currency.

Russia and the U.S. continue to compete in new areas

The competitive spirit among nations, sparked by events following World War II, led to the onset of the Cold War and a nuclear arms race.

A historical competition between the United States and the former Soviet Union (previously known as USSR) unfolded in the realm of space exploration. The pioneer to venture into outer space was the Soviet cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin, while the first individual to set foot on the Moon was the American astronaut, Neil Armstrong.

During the 1990s, Russia took over from the Soviet Union, and the competition between these two nations persisted, particularly in the field of arms development.

As cryptocurrencies continue to evolve, a new point of contention between the United States and Russia arises. Yet, both nations are progressing towards embracing the crypto world as friendly regulatory environments.

1960s: USA versus USSR – competition over who would be the first to set foot on the moon.
— Sumit Gupta (CoinDCX) (@smtgpt) July 30, 2024

As a financial analyst, I find myself in the vibrant landscape of the American financial sector where digital currencies like Bitcoin enjoy legal status as convertible assets. Companies offering exchange services or processing transactions for these cryptocurrencies fall within this legal framework. Yet, it’s crucial to acknowledge that they operate under a regulatory environment characterized by ambiguity, which continues to pose challenges and pressure for these businesses.

In Russia, while Russians are already heavily involved in the use of cryptocurrencies, mining, and digital assets, these have only recently been given legal status. In Russia, a law exists that considers crypto as a form of digital currency, bans it from being used to purchase goods or services within the country, but permits its utilization as an investment opportunity.

Who will win?

In simpler terms, both the U.S. and Russia are showing increased interest in cryptocurrencies, but their motivations differ. In the U.S., officials are focusing on cryptocurrencies due to the upcoming elections and efforts to win votes, while in Russia, cryptocurrency is seen as a vital tool amidst sanctions and an effort to find ways to boost the budget.

Regardless of the path they take, both nations must ultimately come out on top in the crypto competition: both the United States and Russia are grappling with an insufficient regulatory framework for this sector.

2024-08-09 18:59