Japan plans to amend its legislation to classify cryptocurrencies as financial assets in 2026. This decision is being discussed in expert groups, and the Financial Services Agency of Japan (FSA) is preparing a corresponding bill for parliament.
This is reported by Finway
According to reports, the current classification of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, as a means of payment will change. If recognized as financial products, crypto assets will receive a separate legal status, distinct from securities such as stocks and bonds.
“Currently, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are classified as a means of payment, as they were initially considered primarily as a payment method. However, if recognized as financial products, crypto assets are likely to receive a separate legal status, distinct from securities such as stocks and bonds,” the statement reads.
Insider Trading Restrictions
New crypto assets will be subject to insider trading restrictions similar to those that apply to traditional financial products. If these changes come into effect, the regulator will be able to strengthen oversight of crypto service providers in light of the increase in fraud cases.
Company Registration
The classification of cryptocurrencies as financial assets will require not only exchanges but also companies that attract investments in cryptocurrency to register with financial authorities. This will be an important step towards legalizing and regulating the crypto market in Japan, confirming the intentions of the FSA, which were announced back in February 2025.