Bhutan Simplifies Registration for Crypto Firms

Bhutan's GMC introduces streamlined licensing for fintech and virtual asset firms.

The Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), a special economic zone in Bhutan, has introduced a streamlined licensing mechanism for international companies. The initiative targets fintech startups and virtual asset service providers.

The new procedure allows firms to swiftly transition from application to operational activity. GMC has integrated regulatory checks with the provision of banking services. Firms that receive approval automatically open a corporate account with the local DK Bank.

Companies already licensed in major financial hubs such as Singapore, Hong Kong, or Abu Dhabi are eligible for accelerated registration.

GMC representative Jigyel Singye noted that in most countries, licensing and banking processes are lengthy and separate. Bhutan has decided to remove these barriers so that businesses can start operations immediately after approval.

The region also offers incentives:

• zero profit tax for priority sectors;
• no levies on capital gains, dividends, and inheritance;
• a territorial taxation principle (taxes only on domestic income).

Bitcoin Transfers

Analysts at Arkham have recorded the transfer of 100 BTC from Bhutan’s government wallets. At the current rate of sales, the country could fully liquidate its holdings of the first cryptocurrency by the end of September.

Bhutan is selling Bitcoin.

Bhutan just moved 100 BTC ($8.1M) out of its holding wallets.

At their current rate of selling, they will run out of BTC before the end of September. pic.twitter.com/z8P7yf0kzS

— Arkham (@arkham) May 12, 2026

Since the beginning of the year, the kingdom’s authorities have sold assets worth $230.39 million. On average, the government is offloading bitcoins worth $50 million per month.

The country still holds coins valued at $252 million. If Bhutan sells the entire remaining amount at the current rate, the kingdom’s total profit would be approximately $767 million.

In January, Sei Development Foundation entered into a partnership with the sovereign fund Druk Holding and Investments. The organizations agreed to deploy a validator in the Sei network within the state.