BERLIN: Given the previous tensions resulting from the anti-crypto positions that many countries of the world had taken, the last few days have been encouraging for the crypto ecosystem by seeing how governments have softened positions and even promoted their use.
Following statements from the European Central Bank, which stated that it was not responsible for regulating the cryptocurrency markets, the German Federal Ministry of Finance published an official statement that could represent a first regulatory effort in relation to cryptocurrencies.
The document, which is published in German as the original language, mentions that the considerations for its drafting were based on the judgment given by the European Court of Justice (Europäische Gerichtshof) or EuGH dated 22.10.2015 (EuGH, 22.10.2015 – Rs C-264/14). The judgment mentions that the exchange of legal tender in bitcoins and vice versa constitutes a tax-exempt activity.
