TLDR
Ukraine’s draft bill could allow the NBU to hold Bitcoin in national reserves, signaling a global shift.
The bill gives the NBU full discretion on how and when to manage crypto assets in reserves.
Ukraine joins global leaders like El Salvador and the U.S. in exploring cryptocurrency reserves.
Digital assets in national reserves could hedge against risks tied to traditional fiat currencies.
Ukraine has introduced a draft bill that would allow the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) to hold Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in its reserves. This move marks a potential shift in how Ukraine manages its financial assets, aligning the country with global trends in the digital economy.
Ukraine New Bill to Integrate Crypto into National Reserves
The Ukrainian parliament, Verkhovna Rada, has registered Draft Law No. 13356, a proposal that would amend the “On the National Bank of Ukraine” law. This amendment would give the NBU the authority to include virtual assets, like Bitcoin, in Ukraine’s national reserves.
The bill, submitted on June 10, 2025, would allow the central bank to manage these assets at its discretion, without mandating specific amounts or timing for their inclusion.
Yaroslav Zheleznyak, a member of parliament, explained that the bill provides flexibility for the NBU. “How, when, and how much should be the decision of the regulator itself,” Zheleznyak stated, emphasizing that the bill does not force the bank to act in a specific way. The proposal is designed to integrate cryptocurrencies into Ukraine’s financial system while leaving key decisions to the professional judgment of the central bank.
Ukraine’s Strategic Shift Toward Bitcoin and Other Cryptos
This proposed move represents Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to adapt to the changing global financial landscape. The inclusion of Bitcoin in the national reserves is seen as a step toward strengthening Ukraine’s economic position.
According to Zheleznyak, the proper management of crypto reserves would help enhance macroeconomic stability and support the development of the digital economy.
The draft law also reflects Ukraine’s recognition of the growing importance of digital assets. With the increasing global use of cryptocurrencies, especially in countries facing economic challenges, Ukraine is positioning itself as a forward-thinking nation willing to explore new financial innovations. Zheleznyak referred to other countries, such as the United States, El Salvador, Switzerland, and Brazil, which are also taking steps toward integrating cryptocurrencies into their financial systems.
Global Trends in Cryptocurrency Reserves
Ukraine’s proposed legislation mirrors a broader global trend where several countries are starting to explore or adopt cryptocurrency reserves. For instance, the United States is in the process of considering digital asset reserves, while countries like El Salvador have already taken steps to integrate Bitcoin into their national strategies.
These countries view digital currencies as an important tool for diversifying financial reserves and ensuring economic stability.
The use of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in national reserves also provides a hedge against the risks associated with traditional currencies. In light of increasing sanctions and global financial uncertainties, digital assets offer an alternative to traditional fiat currencies. For countries like Ukraine, which face economic pressure due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts, cryptocurrencies provide a potential means to protect their reserves.
What’s Next for Ukraine Crypto Reserve Bill?
The next step for Ukraine’s crypto reserve bill will depend on the approval process within the Ukrainian parliament. Once passed, the law would allow the NBU to decide how to incorporate cryptocurrencies into the country’s reserves. The central bank would retain full discretion in how to manage these assets, including their allocation and timing.
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