El Salvador Advances Bitcoin Strategy with 0% Capital Gains Tax, Interpol Captures Key Fraud Figure in LATAM Crypto Crackdown, Revolut Enters Mexico Banking Market
Latin America’s cryptocurrency landscape continues evolving rapidly in early 2026, blending bold pro-innovation policies, enforcement against fraud, and fintech disruption in traditional banking.
Key developments this week highlight the region’s dual focus: fostering digital asset growth while combating illicit schemes.
El Salvador Implements Zero Capital Gains Tax on Bitcoin to Attract Global Capital
El Salvador has solidified its status as a premier destination for cryptocurrency enthusiasts by enacting a policy granting 0% capital gains tax on Bitcoin and other digital assets. This fiscal measure, effective in 2026, exempts profits from crypto transactions entirely for qualifying participants.
Particularly appealing to international participants, the framework waives income tax on gains for foreign individuals or entities committing over three Bitcoins (approximately valued in the current market) to the country. The incentive encourages long-term holdings and inflows of capital into the local ecosystem.
This builds upon Bitcoin’s 2021 designation as legal tender under President Nayib Bukele’s administration, despite fluctuating domestic adoption for everyday payments like remittances. By removing tax hurdles on appreciation and trading profits, authorities aim to position the nation as a competitive hub for blockchain innovation, digital asset management, and related ventures amid global regulatory shifts.
The policy aligns with broader efforts, including digital asset licensing exemptions and infrastructure projects tied to geothermal-powered Bitcoin initiatives.
Interpol Secures Arrest of Major Figure in Generation Zoe Pyramid Scheme
In a significant enforcement victory, Interpol agents detained Rosa María González Rincón in San Cristóbal, Venezuela, on January 27, 2026. Known within the scheme as a prominent “trading expert” and logistics coordinator, she played a central role in the notorious Generation Zoe (Generación Zoe) operation.
The fraud, often described as a Ponzi-style pyramid, lured thousands across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Spain, Mexico, and beyond with promises of extraordinary yields through automated bots, fake trading platforms, and coaching programs. Victims reportedly suffered combined losses estimated between $100 million and $300 million.
González Rincón, who previously marketed herself as an innovator in algorithmic trading tools (including claims of revolutionary “robots”), evaded capture for years following international alerts. Her apprehension stems from coordinated efforts by Argentine authorities, who secured a 12-year sentence against founder Leonardo Cositorto on fraud and illicit association charges.
This breakthrough underscores growing regional collaboration to dismantle cross-border crypto fraud networks exploiting hype around digital investments.
Revolut Expands into Mexico with Full Banking License and Digital Services
UK-based fintech leader Revolut has officially commenced comprehensive banking activities in Mexico as of late January 2026, marking its inaugural banking entity beyond Europe.
After concluding a successful beta phase, Revolut Bank S.A. Institución de Banca Múltiple now offers Mexican users a complete suite of app-driven financial tools, including high-yield savings options, seamless cross-border transfers (with promotional free US-Mexico remittances), low-fee accounts, and advanced money management features.
Backed by over $100 million in capitalization—exceeding regulatory thresholds—and robust capital ratios, the launch targets Mexico’s 130 million residents amid frustrations with high-cost, legacy banks. The move accelerates Revolut’s global reach to 40 countries while capitalizing on the nation’s large underbanked population and demand for efficient, mobile-first services.
This entry signals intensifying competition in Latin America’s fintech sector, where digital solutions increasingly challenge traditional institutions.
These stories reflect Latin America’s dynamic crypto and fintech environment: proactive policies to draw investment, rigorous action against scams, and innovative challengers reshaping financial access. As adoption matures, the region positions itself as a key player in the global digital economy.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.