Key Takeaways
- The Romanian postal operator is installing cryptocurrency terminals in its branches to facilitate funding of user accounts.
- One terminal is already working in one of the post offices, with at least four others in line to be installed.
- There is a growing number of cryptocurrency users in Romania.
Romania’s postal company, Posta Romana, will install cryptocurrency terminals to facilitate the funding of users’ crypto accounts in all its branches.
According to an official press release, the project is part of a pilot program being executed in partnership with Bitcoin Romania (BTR Exchange), the country’s leading cryptocurrency exchange.
Fund Accounts on the Bitcoin Romania Platform
With plans to eventually launch the cryptocurrency terminals in all its branches, the statement said the first terminal was already operational inside Post Office 1 in Tulcea, eastern Romania. The terminal enables users to deposit cash to fund their accounts on the Bitcoin Romania platform. Next in line will be four other post offices located in Alexandria, Piatra Neamţ, Botoşani, and Nădlac that will also be equipped with such terminals shortly. The release added:
“The project reflects Poşta Română’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies into its services and bringing innovation closer to all citizens, including in less digitized areas.”
Posta Romana Issued an Official NFT
The decision by Posta Romana to install cryptocurrency terminals could prove to be a bestseller, considering there are at least 600,000 Romanian citizens who have invested in cryptocurrencies. This is according to Horia Gustă, president of the Association of Fund Administrators (AAF).
Posta Romana became the public institution in the country to issue an official NFT in 2022, a digital anniversary stamp dedicated to celebrating the agency’s 160 years of service. Part of the NFT collection was auctioned, and the funds accrued were donated to a local hospice organization, Hospice Casa Speranţei. The following year, the company launched yet another collection of 100 NFTs and postcards dedicated to anti-communist heroes. The country’s national postal operator is currently undergoing a historic transformation program, which includes over RON 80 million (EUR 16 million) in investments for the renovation and development of regional logistics hubs.
Romania Ranks 7th Among Eastern European Countries
Romania is currently experiencing a surge in cryptocurrency adoption, according to the latest reports on the number of digital asset users, their holdings, and inflows. A July 2024 report by Statista predicts that the number of users in the Romanian cryptocurrency market could reach 5.65 million by 2025. Based on these estimates, approximately 5% to 10% of cryptocurrency holders reside in the country.
The country’s digital asset market user penetration rate is projected to exceed 29% in 2025. A Chainalysis report from October 2024 found that Romania ranked 7th among Eastern European countries in terms of cryptocurrency received between July 2023 and June 2024, with crypto inflows amounting to less than $25 billion.
Conclusion
The adoption of the European MiCA regulations has brought more clarity to the crypto industry across Europe, and Romania’s crypto markets will also have to follow these regulations. December 2024 marked the month of MiCA’s entry into application in the EU. While Romania has the potential to play a leadership role in blockchain and tech adoption, clearer regulations in the industry will support its development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Romania crypto-friendly?
In Romania, cryptocurrency is taxed in two ways. Profits from trading are classified as capital gains and taxed at 10%. If you receive crypto as payment for goods or services, it falls under personal income and is also taxed at 10%.
Who regulates crypto in Romania?
The provision of crypto-to-fiat exchange, as well as digital wallet services, is subject to authorization and/or registration by the Commission for the approval of foreign exchange activity within the Ministry of Public Finance.
What crypto app works in Romania?
eToro is a trading platform and crypto exchange that works in Romania. It supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and many other coins.
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