Japan Passes Landmark Crypto Bill — ETFs Approved, Taxes Slashed from 55% to 20%
Japan's parliament has passed a landmark bill reclassifying cryptocurrencies as financial products, paving the way for crypto ETFs and slashing crypto taxes from 55% to 20%. The legislation also introduces insider trading rules for crypto assets and strengthens penalties for unregistered operators. Meanwhile, South Korea's Ministry of Economy and Finance announced plans to pass the Digital Asset Framework Act in the second half of 2026, officially recognizing cryptocurrency as a national asset.
Why it matters: Both moves signal growing regulatory maturity in Asia's major economies, potentially paving the way for greater institutional adoption. Japan has now outpaced the U.S. on crypto regulation.
Risk reminder: Regulatory frameworks are still evolving. Compliance costs may increase for platforms operating in these jurisdictions.
