Understanding the New Cryptocurrency Valuation in Japan

Aki Japan Tax Consultant Office | Income Tax, Corporate Tax, VAT Back | Understanding the New Cryptocurrency Valuation in Japan

Author Aki Kojima

Certified Public Tax Accountant with an MBA, member of the Association of Micro M&A Professionals, and licensed real estate agent. I provide tax advisory services, asset management consulting, and support for business owners, freelancers, and sole proprietors. I have extensive experience in international sales, accounting, labor relations, recruiting, and IT management. In addition to my professional work, I write articles and books on taxation and financial education. I enjoy swimming, reading, photography, and spending time in nature with my two children.

August 3, 2023

August 3, 2023

Hello, crypto enthusiasts and business owners! If you’re involved in the world of cryptocurrency, especially within Japan, there’s a significant tax update that you should be aware of. Let’s dive right in!

A Shift in Cryptocurrency Taxation

For those holding crypto assets in their businesses, the National Tax Agency of Japan has introduced a change that might directly impact your tax liabilities. Previously, if you held crypto assets at the end of the fiscal year, you were required to pay tax on any unrealized profits. This rule was also applicable to the companies that issued these assets.

However, there’s a silver lining now! A recent amendment has been introduced that excludes self-issued crypto assets from market valuation. TMany has welcomed this change as it addresses a long-standing concern within the crypto community.

Conditions for Exclusion

Before you jump for joy, it’s essential to understand the conditions under which this exclusion applies:

Continuity of Holding

The business must have held onto the self-issued assets continuously since their issuance.

Transfer Restrictions

The assets should have restrictions on their transferability. This could be due to a technical measure that prevents transfers or because they meet specific requirements for trust assets.

It’s crucial to note that this exclusion is only for self-issued assets. If your business holds crypto assets issued by other companies, those are still subject to taxation.

What Does This Mean for the Crypto Industry?

This amendment is a significant step forward, especially for Web3 startups in Japan. Preventing potential tax burdens on self-issued assets reduces the risk of businesses moving abroad to avoid hefty tax implications.

However, it’s not all rosy. There are still limitations in place, such as the inability of businesses to hold assets issued by other companies without facing tax implications. This restriction could potentially slow down the growth of Japan’s domestic crypto ecosystem.

In Conclusion

The world of cryptocurrency is ever-evolving, and so are the regulations surrounding it. While this new amendment is a positive step for many businesses, staying informed and adapting to the changing landscape is essential. If you’re involved in the crypto space in Japan, always consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re compliant and making the most of the available benefits.

Stay tuned for more updates, and happy trading!

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