Summary:
- Bhutan has had a secret crypto portfolio since 2022.
- Amber Group is considering options for its Japan unit, including a potential sale.
- The Bank of Israel is preparing an action plan for the potential issuance of its digital shekel.
Bhutan’s Secret Crypto Portfolio
The Kingdom of Bhutan has reportedly placed millions of dollars into cryptocurrency since at least 2022. According to court documents, Bhutan’s $2.9 billion sovereign investment arm was a customer of bankrupt crypto lenders BlockFi and Celsius, which it has never publicly disclosed.
Amber Group’s Japan Unit
Crypto lender Amber Group is considering options for its Japan unit, including a potential sale, as part of a plan to focus more on institutional than retail clients. Managing partner Annabelle Huang said that although Japan is “high quality market” with strict regulations, the company plans to apply for a Hong Kong license following the city’s pivot toward creating a digital-asset hub.
Bank Of Israel’s Digital Shekel
The Bank of Israel is preparing an action plan for the potential issuance of its central bank digital currency (CBDC), or digital shekel. The bank discussed the conditions that would enable or support a decision to issue a BOI CBDC at some point, indicating a number of variables that may have an effect on the committee’s recommendation.