Brazil’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Bill passes first committee

On June 12, Brazil’s strategic Bitcoin Reserve Bill 4501/2023 passed first committee, pushing the country closer to holding $BTC as part of its national reserve. The significant move suggests the creation of a national reserve termed “RESBiT,” which allows up to 5% of the country’s foreign exchange to be allocated to Bitcoin. 

Key Highlights of Brazil’s Bitcoin Reserve Plan

Bill Project No. 4,501 of 2024 “Provides for the formation of a Sovereign Strategic Reserve of Bitcoins by the Federal Government and other measures”, stated the proposal of the bill. 

• The Brazil Bitcoin Reserve bill 4501/2023 was introduced by Brazilian Federal Deputy Eros Biondini and received favorable feedback of approval from the Economic Development Committee– two of Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies.

• When the reserve was initially introduced, it aimed to back Brazil’s central bank currency using blockchain and AI for transactions. This legislation aims to create a national Bitcoin reserve that would hold up to 5% of the country’s reserve.

• The bill highlights that the Central Bank of Brazil and the Ministry of Finance will be the operating bodies managing reserves using stringent security protocols as cold wallets. It will be required to submit audited transparency reports to Congress every six months.

• The Bitcoin reserve bill also aims to diversify the Treasury’s assets by supporting a country’s central bank digital currency.

What is the Brazilian Government Saying About the Bitcoin Bill?

Luis Gastao, the rapporteur of the proposal and also a Brazilian Congressman, emphasised that if Brazil adopts this Bitcoin Reserve plan, it can help reduce reliance on fiat currency. He added that it could also assist in diversifying its assets. He added– 

“We are advocating for a cautious and gradual implementation strategy to balance the potential benefits and risks of adding Bitcoin to Brazil’s official reserves.” 

Final Note

Additionally, this new Bitcoin reserve bill is seeking approval from the committee on technology, constitution, and finance for further consideration. If the bill is ultimately passed, Brazil will second Latin American Country, just behind El Salvador, to legally establish a bitcoin reserve. However, Brazil’s approach is considered more structured.  Brazil’s initiative for a Sovereign Bitcoin Reserve can steer other nations’ tech policies. 

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