Bitcoin use on the rise in Latin America

Bitcoin, a digital currency in place of the more traditional form, is being used more regularly by several firms that operate out of South America, the Latino Post reported. However, because of the tighter regulations being implemented, it's getting a lot of scrutiny.

PropinaBitcoin is one of the companies that's aiming to provide consumers and organizations with more information about the digital currency.

"PropinaBitcoin is a free online service that allows Bitcoin users to print paper wallets that can then be left as tips at restaurants and bars," Coindesk reported, which publishes the latest developments on all things related to digital currency. "Those who receive the paper wallet then visit PropinaBitcoin's website where they are given detailed instructions on how to retrieve the funds."

But the finer details of the currency is being examined by Argentina regulators, according to Coindesk.

"Argentina's Unidad de Información Financiera has ordered financial services companies within the country to report all transactions involving digital currency," the website noted.

Bolivia banned Bitcoin in June
An issue that the UIF is concerned about is money laundering, which involves using a legitimate business operation to hide business transactions that are illegal in nature. This past June, El Banco de Bolivia - Bolivia's central bank - announced that consumers and companies could no longer use Bitcoin because of the perceived security risks.

Nevertheless, Bitcoin businesses are taking shape in other parts of Latin America where the currency remains unregulated.

"Earlier last month, Uruguay-headquartered Bitcoin startup Moneero opened its debut wallet service to beta testers after operating under the radar," the Latino Post quoted from Coindesk. "As well, the region's first Ripple gateway opened in June, bringing the payment network to seven local markets including Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Mexico."

According to CNN.com, the future of Bitcoin remains unknown. Because its use is unregulated in many countries, governments are concerned about some of the taxation issues to consider and price manipulation.

"Regulatory scrutiny is on the rise throughout Latin America, and we are seeing tax authorities place requirements on invoicing, payroll and now we are seeing it move into payments - especially digital currency," said Scott Lewin, President & CEO, Invoiceware Interational.

With the continued economic expansion across the region, multinationals needs to be aware of the changes to government regulations -- as they now affect virtually every business and financial transaction