Brazil's Crypto Demand Skyrockets 135% in First Half

Brazil's demand for cryptocurrencies has skyrocketed in the first half of 2026, according to data released by the Central Bank. The total value of virtual asset purchases reached $14.68 billion from January through June, marking a 135% increase compared to the same period last year.

The Central Bank reported that in June alone, the amount spent on cryptocurrencies was $2.54 billion, up from $1.48 billion in June 2025. This surge in demand is attributed to the growing interest among Brazilian residents in stablecoins, digital currencies pegged to traditional currencies such as the dollar and the real.

Fernando Rocha, head of the Central Bank's Statistics Department, noted that 'demand for crypto assets among Brazilian residents has been growing.' He also stated that 'roughly 90% to 95% of the demand identified by the Central Bank is for stablecoins,' which are primarily used as a means of payment and transaction settlement.

The Central Bank's data collection on cryptocurrency use still faces limitations, particularly in regards to foreign-exchange contracts entered into by service providers. However, starting next year, crypto platforms will be required to comply with the same prudential framework that governs other institutions in Brazil's National Financial System.