Argentina vs Uruguay
Crypto regulation comparison
Argentina
Uruguay
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal in Argentina and widely adopted due to persistent inflation and currency controls. The CNV regulates crypto service providers under a 2024 registration framework. Argentina has one of the highest crypto adoption rates globally, with stablecoins used as a hedge against peso devaluation.
Uruguay has a generally favorable stance toward cryptocurrency. The BCU has not banned crypto and in 2024 introduced regulations for virtual asset service providers. Crypto income may be taxed at 12% under the IRPF (personal income tax) as capital income. Uruguay has a stable economy and is positioning itself as a fintech hub in Latin America.
Tax Type
Income
Tax Type
Income
Tax Rate
5% (peso-denominated) / 15% (foreign currency)
Tax Rate
12%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
CNV (Comisión Nacional de Valores), BCRA
Regulator
BCU (Banco Central del Uruguay)
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation; USD-pegged stablecoins widely used informally
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation
Key Points
- CNV registered as the regulatory authority for virtual asset service providers (VASPs) under FATF guidelines
- Crypto gains taxed as income under the income tax law at progressive rates
- High adoption driven by inflation and capital controls on the Argentine peso
- Exchanges must register with the CNV and comply with AML/KYC requirements
- No legal tender status for crypto; the peso remains the only legal tender
Key Points
- BCU introduced VASP regulations in 2024
- Crypto income taxed at 12% as capital income under IRPF
- Crypto not classified as legal tender; peso remains the national currency
- Uruguay has a relatively stable economy and favorable fintech environment
- AML/KYC requirements apply to registered VASPs