Curaçao Launches 2026–2027 Gambling Reform as Operators Face Limits on Crypto Exchanges and Transfers

The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) has issued new rules for gambling operators that accept cryptocurrency. The document regulates cryptoasset transactions at every stage, from player deposits and betting to withdrawals and the operator’s custody of funds.

The regulator said gambling platforms must not operate as crypto exchanges or exchange services. Operators may accept cryptocurrency only as a payment method for gambling.

Operators are prohibited from exchanging cryptocurrency for customers or offering users money transfer services.

For the crypto gambling sector, this is a significant restriction, as a number of operators have such functions built into their payment sections. Stake, for example, allows users to buy cryptocurrency through third-party providers and exchange one cryptocurrency for another on the platform.

Among the CGA’s key requirements are:

• to screen crypto wallets when funds are deposited and withdrawn;
• to track the origin of cryptocurrency and the movement of funds;
• to block funds from prohibited or suspicious sources, including wallets on sanctions lists, darknet marketplaces, mixers and tumblers*;
• to assess risks separately for different cryptoassets;
• to use separate corporate crypto wallets for player funds, day-to-day operations and company reserves;
• not to use personal wallets belonging to owners, employees or beneficial owners;
• to retain data on crypto transactions so the regulator can review fund movements, wallet balances and transfer approvals.

The regulator said stablecoins — cryptocurrencies pegged to fiat currencies such as the US dollar or the euro — are preferable. If an operator accepts other cryptoassets, it must assess the associated risks separately.

Operators must submit their internal cryptocurrency policies to the CGA by September 2026. By December 2026, they must assess risks, review companies involved in crypto payments and train staff. Full compliance with the new rules is required by June 2027.

* Mixers and tumblers are services used to obscure the origin of cryptocurrency.