U.S. Regulator Allows Banks to Hold Crypto for Blockchain Fees

Russia is advancing a bill to grant everyday investors limited access to cryptocurrency, aiming to normalize its use while capping retail participation at approximately $3,800. This legislative move reflects a significant shift in the country's approach to digital assets, as it seeks to integrate cryptocurrencies into the financial mainstream.

Senate Republicans have released fact sheets for the Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act as the Banking Committee prepares for markups, indicating a significant step towards establishing U.S. cryptocurrency regulations. This development comes at a crucial time as lawmakers seek to clarify the regulatory landscape for digital assets.

Casa, a multisig security provider, is positioning itself as a key player in Bitcoin self-custody as of 2026, with CEO Nick Neuman advocating for practical sovereignty for high-value Bitcoin holders amidst increasing institutional adoption and security threats.

Bitcoin's price surged to an eight-week high, reaching $97,700, as traders set their sights on the psychological milestone of $100,000. This significant increase reflects a bullish sentiment in the cryptocurrency market, driven by various factors including macroeconomic conditions.

DZ Bank, Germany's second-largest lender, has received authorization under the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR), enabling the launch of a retail crypto trading platform across the cooperative banking sector. This approval was granted by the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) at the end of December 2025.

Strategy (MSTR) stock surged by 10% to over $189 as Bitcoin approaches the $100,000 mark, driven by renewed strength in the cryptocurrency and increased corporate purchases. This rise reflects a growing demand for Bitcoin as a key asset among institutional investors.

Rhode Island lawmakers have reintroduced a temporary Bitcoin tax exemption bill, aiming to eliminate state income and capital gains taxes on small Bitcoin transactions up to $20,000 annually for the second consecutive year. This legislative effort reflects a growing interest in fostering a favorable environment for cryptocurrency transactions within the state.

Senator Elizabeth Warren has called on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to pause its review of the bank charter application for World Liberty Financial, citing unresolved conflicts of interest linked to former President Donald Trump. This request highlights ongoing tensions surrounding cryptocurrency regulation and the influence of political figures on financial institutions.