Japanese financial regulators publicly seek opinions on digital payments and cryptocurrency regulation issues

PANews January 28 News, according to Cryptobriefing, the Japanese Financial Services Agency has opened a public consultation on a draft implementation guideline involving cryptocurrencies, electronic payment tools, and financial institutions. The draft clarifies the specific enforcement requirements following the 2025 revision of the Payment Services Act, including updates to official notices, administrative guidelines, and regulatory rules. The draft covers multiple areas, including the addition of bonds as designated supporting assets, the regulatory framework for electronic payment tools and crypto-related intermediary services, and an updated regulatory guide for financial institutions and their subsidiaries. The consultation will end on February 27, 2026, after which the regulations will take effect upon completion of necessary procedures, and the consultation results will be announced separately. It is reported that the Japanese Financial Services Agency is planning a comprehensive overhaul of the regulatory framework, aiming to launch the country’s first spot crypto ETF by 2028. The roadmap includes reclassifying cryptocurrencies as “specified assets” under the Investment Trust Law, pushing to reduce crypto capital gains tax from a maximum of 55% to a flat 20%, and allowing time to strengthen custody and investor protection standards.