Financial Insights That Matter
El Salvador has struck a $1.4bn (£1.1bn) loan deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after agreeing to scale back its controversial bitcoin policies.
The global lender said risks related to the adoption of the world’s largest cryptocurrency had eased now that businesses will be allowed to decide whether or not to accept bitcoin.
In 2021, El Salvador became the first country in the world to make bitcoin legal tender.
This week, the cryptocurrency briefly hit a fresh record high of more than $108,000.
“The potential risks of the Bitcoin project will be diminished significantly in line with Fund policies,” the IMF announcement said.
“Legal reforms will make acceptance of Bitcoin by the private sector voluntary. For the public sector, engagement in Bitcoin-related economic activities and transactions in and purchases of Bitcoin will be confined.”
The deal, which is aimed to help support El Salvador’s economy, still needs to approved by the IMF’s executive board.
The IMF had opposed the Salvadorean President Nayib Bukele’s crypto-friendly policies, warning they could become an obstacle to it offering financial assistance.
Still, Bukele celebrated on social media as bitcoin rallied after Donald Trump’s US election victory in November.
Earlier this month, as the price of bitcoin topped $100,000 for the first time, Bukele said in a social media post that his country’s holdings in the cryptocurrency had more than doubled in value.
He also blamed his political opponents for causing many Salvadorans to miss out on bitcoin’s rise.
The cryptocurrency has rallied since Donald Trump’s election victory on the 5 November.
The incoming Trump administration is seen as being far more friendly towards cryptocurrencies than President Joe Biden’s White House.
On Thursday, the cryptocurrency retreated along with global stock markets after the US Federal Reserve signalled a slower pace of interest rate cuts next year.
Bitcoin is currently trading at around $100,000.
#1a73e8;">Boost Your Financial Knowledge and Achieve Stability
Discover a growing online community dedicated to delivering financial news, tips, and strategies designed to help you manage money effectively, save smarter, and grow your investments with confidence.
#1a73e8;">Top Financial Tips for Saving and Investing
- Personal Finance Management: Master the art of budgeting, expense tracking, and building a strong financial foundation.
- Investment Opportunities: Stay updated on market trends, learn about stocks, and explore secure ways to grow your wealth.
- Expert Money-Saving Advice: Access proven techniques to reduce expenses and maximize your financial potential.