Morning Crypto Briefing: Arizona Passes Bitcoin Payment Bill, Traditional Banks Enter Market

Source: TokenPost Original Title: [모닝 뉴스브리핑] 미국 애리조나주, 비트코인 결제 수용 법안 2차 심의 통과 外 Original Link: https://www.tokenpost.kr/news/briefing/324063

Arizona Embraces Bitcoin: Second Reading of Bill Passes

Arizona’s state legislature has passed a bill in its second reading that would allow the state government to accept Bitcoin as payment for taxes and fees. This development signals growing institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies at the state level. If the bill passes final approval, Arizona would join other states like Colorado in permitting cryptocurrency payments for government obligations.

Belgium’s Second-Largest Bank KBC Launches Direct Bitcoin Purchase Service

KBC Bank, Belgium’s second-largest bank, announced it will begin offering all customers direct Bitcoin purchasing services starting in February. With total assets of $375 billion, KBC’s entry into cryptocurrency trading reflects the broader trend of traditional financial institutions expanding into digital assets. The move aims to improve retail investor accessibility and meet growing demand for portfolio diversification.

Coinbase CEO: Ready to Restart Cryptocurrency Regulation Discussions

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong stated in a CNBC interview that he is prepared to return to the table for discussions on Bitcoin and cryptocurrency market structure. Armstrong emphasized the importance of achieving regulatory clarity and resuming dialogue with U.S. government and regulatory authorities. This reflects the industry’s push toward mainstream institutional integration and clearer regulatory frameworks.

Exchange CEO: Competitors Now Include Meta, Google, and Traditional Finance

In a January 8 CNBC interview, a major exchange’s co-CEO stated that cryptocurrency industry competition has evolved beyond exchange-to-exchange rivalry to encompass broader Web2-Web3 convergence. He noted that competitors now include major tech firms and traditional financial institutions, requiring crypto companies to focus on technological integration and enhanced user experience.

Trump Proposes 15% Tariff Reduction on Taiwan Imports

According to cryptocurrency news sources, President Trump plans to reduce U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese imports to 15%. While specific implementation timelines and affected product categories remain unclear, the move is interpreted as strengthening U.S.-Taiwan economic cooperation, particularly in critical sectors like semiconductors.

Bitcoin Breaks Through $97,000

Bitcoin has surpassed $97,000, currently trading at $97,006.1 according to major exchanges. The 24-hour decline is 0.12%, suggesting market stabilization after recent volatility.