Japan is preparing new and stricter regulation for the cryptoasset market. The country's financial regulator, the Financial Services Agency (FSA), published a report proposing that cryptocurrencies be removed from the current Payment Services Act and regulated under the Financial Instruments and Exchanges Act (FIEA). This step aims to place crypto assets more in the same category as securities and strengthen investor protection.
A clear message from the FSA: "Crypto issues are similar to securities"
The report noted that many of the problems experienced in the crypto market are similar to those encountered in the securities market for years. The main problems highlighted by the FSA were vague white papers, inaccurate or incomplete information, unregistered activities, fraud cases, low risk tolerance, and exchange security vulnerabilities.
Therefore, the agency stated that it would be appropriate to apply the same oversight and enforcement mechanisms currently offered by the FIEA to crypto. However, it should be noted that this report is not yet binding. The document in question is a draft of an idea submitted by the FSA secretariat to the Financial System Council. The final decision will be made by the government.
Crypto on the rise in Japan
The report also highlights the growing economic importance of crypto assets in Japan. The total number of accounts opened on crypto exchanges in the country has surpassed 12 million. The total value of user deposits has exceeded 5 trillion yen (approximately $33.7 billion). This figure means that nearly one in 10 people has a crypto account.
Meanwhile, the vast majority of investors in Japan engage in small-scale transactions. More than 80% of individual accounts have balances below $675. Furthermore, 70% of crypto investors are middle-income earners, and 86% are investing with the expectation of long-term price appreciation.
Supportive messages from the government
Japanese Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato also drew attention last month by stating that crypto assets could be included in diversified portfolios. While acknowledging high volatility, Kato emphasized that with proper regulations, the crypto market could become a safe haven for investors.
What new rules might entail?
If crypto is included in the FIEA:
- Issuers will be required to disclose detailed information in public offerings and secondary market transactions, similar to securities.
- Brokerage firms and brokers will be subject to stricter licensing and oversight.
- Strict measures will be implemented against unfair transactions and manipulation.
- Courts will be able to issue swift injunctions and preliminary injunctions against unregistered activities.
