Brazil, Thailand, and India are advancing different approaches to cryptocurrency regulation and digital finance. While Brazil strengthens oversight of banking services, Thailand recognizes Bitcoin’s legal protection, and India promotes programmable digital currency for government payments.

Brazil’s Itaú Unibanco Meets Crypto Regulatory Requirements

Brazil’s largest private bank, Itaú Unibanco, notified the Banco Central do Brasil of its cryptocurrency trading and custody operations on October 27, 2026. According to the bank, the filing complies with Resolution BCB 520, which became effective in February 2026. 

The framework introduces governance, cybersecurity, anti-money laundering and customer protection requirements for digital asset providers. Itaú has offered cryptocurrency services since December 2023, supporting more than 14 digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDC.

“An environment with clear rules and high standards of security and governance benefits the entire industry and, especially, consumers,” said Guto Antunes, Itaú’s digital assets superintendent.

Thailand Supreme Court Recognizes Bitcoin as Property

Thailand’s Supreme Court has ruled that Bitcoin qualifies as property under criminal law, strengthening protections against cryptocurrency theft. Siam Blockchain reported that ruling 4929/2569 concerned a September 2022 robbery in Koh Samui involving 2.480801 BTC. The cryptocurrency was worth approximately USD 48,200 during the incident, compared with roughly USD 198,505 at current reported valuations. 

Defendants argued that ‘the cryptocurrency or Bitcoin that was transferred has no intrinsic value, and therefore cannot be considered as taking another person’s property under the law.’ The court rejected this argument, establishing that Bitcoin’s digital nature does not eliminate its economic value.

India Promotes Programmable Digital Rupee

India’s Reserve Bank is encouraging state governments to adopt programmable central bank digital currency for Direct Benefit Transfers. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra promoted the initiative during the October 27 conference attended by representatives from 27 states and three Union Territories.

Introduced in August 2026, the programmable CBDC aims to improve transparency and efficiency in distributing subsidies, pensions, and welfare payments. India’s digital rupee pilots were initially launched in November and December 2022.

Global Crypto Regulation Outlook

These developments highlight growing institutional engagement with digital assets. Brazil emphasizes regulatory compliance, Thailand strengthens legal recognition, and India explores government-backed blockchain payments, demonstrating different approaches toward integrating digital finance into established financial systems.

Also Read: RBI Scrutinizes Offshore Crypto Cards as Indian Users Report Payment Disruptions