Japan's financial regulatory agency has publicly sought opinions on the regulation of digital payments and cryptocurrencies

According to market news, the Financial Services Agency of Japan has opened a public consultation on the draft implementation guidelines involving cryptocurrencies, electronic payment tools, and financial institutions. The draft clarifies the specific execution requirements following the amendment of the Payment Services Act in 2025, including updates to official announcements, administrative guidelines, and regulatory rules.

The draft covers multiple areas, including the designation of newly added bonds as supporting assets, the regulatory framework for electronic payment tools and cryptocurrency-related intermediary services, as well as updated regulatory guidelines for financial institutions and their subsidiaries. This consultation will end on February 27, 2026, after which the regulations will come into effect following the completion of necessary procedures, and the results of the consultation will be announced separately.

It is reported that the Financial Services Agency of Japan is planning a comprehensive adjustment of the regulatory framework, aiming to launch the country's first spot cryptocurrency ETFs by 2028. The roadmap includes reclassifying cryptocurrencies as "specific assets" under the Investment Trust Act, promoting a reduction of the cryptocurrency capital gains tax from a maximum of 55% to a uniform 20%, and allowing time to strengthen custody and investor protection standards.