IMF updates global standards to include crypto in balance of payments
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has overhauled its balance of payments standards to reflect the growing impact of digital assets.
According to the newly released Balance of Payments Manual, Seventh Edition (BPM7), cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) are now classified as non-produced nonfinancial assets, while certain tokens are treated akin to equity holdings.
The updated manual, published on March 20, marks the first time the IMF has integrated detailed guidance for digital assets into its global statistical standards.
Crypto without liabilities
The framework divides digital assets into fungible and nonfungible tokens, with further distinctions based on whether they have a corresponding liability.
Bitcoin and similar tokens without…
