Telegram's Wallet Secures Regulatory License in Uzbekistan, Opening Crypto Access to Millions

10.12.2025 13:13 2 sources positive

The integrated crypto wallet service within the Telegram messaging app, Wallet in Telegram, has officially launched in Uzbekistan after receiving a license from the country's primary financial regulator, the National Agency of Perspective Projects (NAPP). This authorization allows the platform to offer regulated cryptocurrency services to Uzbekistan's population of over 33.5 million.

Uzbekistani citizens can now legally purchase, sell, transfer, and store a wide array of digital assets directly within the Telegram interface using locally issued bank cards from Mastercard, Visa, and Humo. The service provides access to over 200 cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Toncoin (TON), Tether (USDT), and Ethereum (ETH). The registration process is designed to be quick, with asset management as simple as sending a message.

The launch is underpinned by a partnership with Asterium, Uzbekistan's largest regulated crypto ecosystem, which provides secure trading, storage, and payment infrastructure. This collaboration is aimed at lowering entry barriers and facilitating broader participation in the digital economy. The service supports both custodial and self-custody storage options.

Andrey Rogozov, CEO of The Open Platform (TOP) which developed the wallet, highlighted the significance of the move, stating, "Today, Uzbekistan is one of the most dynamic fintech markets in the world." He added that the combination of Telegram's massive user base, regulatory clarity, and high mobile internet penetration makes Uzbekistan an example for emerging markets transitioning to advanced digital finance.

This development aligns with Uzbekistan's strategic goal of becoming a regional fintech hub. The country recently announced plans to legalize stablecoin payments starting in 2026 under a regulatory sandbox framework. The NAPP, which reports directly to the administration of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, oversees the capital markets and crypto sector, with the license intended to ensure user identification, data protection, and secure, transparent transactions.