Japan's Financial Services Agency Seeks Public Input on Crypto Regulations

Japan's Financial Services Agency has initiated a public consultation on draft implementation details concerning cryptocurrencies, electronic payment tools, and financial institutions. According to ChainCatcher, the draft outlines specific execution requirements following the 2025 revision of the Payment Services Act, including updates to official notices, administrative guidelines, and regulatory rules. The draft covers various areas, such as the designation of new bonds as supporting assets, the regulatory framework for electronic payment tools and crypto-related intermediary services, and updated regulatory guidelines for financial institutions and their subsidiaries. The consultation will conclude on February 27, 2026, after which the regulations will take effect following the completion of necessary procedures, with results to be announced separately. The Financial Services Agency is reportedly planning a comprehensive overhaul of the regulatory framework, aiming to introduce the country's first spot crypto ETFs by 2028. The roadmap includes reclassifying cryptocurrencies as 'specified assets' under the Investment Trust Law, reducing the crypto capital gains tax from a maximum of 55% to a flat 20%, and allowing time to strengthen custody and investor protection standards.