Google has announced it will resume accepting cryptocurrency-related online advertising after banning such ads in March (see our related report here). The new policy was updated in October and allows regulated cryptocurrency businesses to advertise on Google's platform. This means that the ban on initial coin offering ("ICO") related posts will still be in effect.

Google's updated policy applies to advertisers all over the world, with the exception that the ads can run only in the US and Japan, and interested businesses will have to apply for a certification to serve ads in each country on an individual basis, once the new policy comes into effect.

Google's move follows Facebook, which announced that it has reversed its June ban on certain types of crypto-related ads , having introduced it in January (see our related update here). However, Facebook stated that ads promoting binary options and ICOs remain prohibited. Facebook's updated policy requires advertisers wishing to run ads for cryptocurrency products and services, to submit an application in order enabling Facebook to assess their eligibility. Facebook stated that it will "listen to any feedback" and if necessary, revise its policy over time, as it continues to "study" this technology.

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