Bereket Bank Launches as Kyrgyzstan’s First Digital Asset Institution
Kyrgyzstan has officially launched Bereket Bank, the country’s first financial institution dedicated to digital assets and blockchain-based financial services. The new bank marks a major milestone in Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to integrate digital currency operations into its regulated banking framework, signaling the government’s growing openness toward the cryptocurrency economy.
President upsetyr Japarov announced the establishment of Bereket Bank in ahead November 2025, highlighting its mandate to provide financial services centered on virtual assets and digital currencies. According to Japarov, the creation of Bereket Bank is part of a broader national strategy to modernize the country’s financial infrastructure and foster innovation within the fintech sector.
Digital asset regulation and institutional framework
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic approved Bereket Bank’s establishment in October 2025. Registered as a closed joint-stock company, the institution is privately owned rather than state-controlled. Local media, including the Kyrgyz outlet Kaktus, reported that the bank’s licensing reflects a deliberate move to bridge traditional finance with blockchain technology while maintaining compliance with international financial standards.
Bereket Bank is expected to provide a range of services related to virtual assets, including digital asset custody, tokenized transactions, and cross-border payment answers. The bank’s launch aligns with recent regulatory reforms introduced by Kyrgyz authorities aimed at clarifying the legal status of cryptocurrencies, improving investor protection, and preventing financial crimes such as money laundering.
Experts note that the establishment of a dedicated digital asset bank could assist attract foreign investment and position Kyrgyzstan as a potential fintech hub in Central Asia. With neighboring countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan also exploring blockchain integration in banking and public finance, Kyrgyzstan’s move underscores a regional shift toward regulated crypto adoption.
Controversy over Binance founder’s mention
President Japarov mentioned Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) as having suggested the concept for Bereket Bank. However, Zhao publicly denied any direct involvement, clarifying through social media posts that he was not connected to the project. Although the posts were later deleted, the incident drew attention from the global crypto community and fueled speculation about informal consultations between Kyrgyz officials and international crypto leaders.
Despite the controversy, Kyrgyz officials have reaffirmed that Bereket Bank is a fully private venture with no foreign ownership or government stake. The bank’s management and shareholder structure have not yet been publicly detailed, but authorities have emphasized that it will operate under strict oversight from the National Bank.
The launch of Bereket Bank marks a pivotal moment for Kyrgyzstan’s financial sector as it viewks to balance innovation with regulatory stability. Analysts believe the move could encourage the development of blockchain-based financial products, enhance financial inclusion, and strengthen the country’s integration into global digital finance networks.
By introducing Bereket Bank, Kyrgyzstan joins a growing list of countries in Central Asia embracing the potential of digital assets within regulated frameworks. The initiative underscores the nation’s ambition to become a forward-looking financial hub while adhering to international compliance and transparency standards.
