Japan Clears Path for Spot ETFs Tied to Cryptocurrencies

Japan has made significant changes to its financial regulations, officially equating crypto assets with traditional financial instruments. This move creates a legal basis for the launch of spot ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) tied to cryptocurrencies.

The amendments took effect on July 15, 2026, and it's expected that the first such funds will be launched in 2027. The new regime puts cryptocurrencies alongside familiar exchange instruments like stocks, making investments in the cryptocurrency market more understandable for a wider audience.

For investors, this change also brings a significant tax shift: the tax rate before the changes was up to 55%, while after the changes it will be fixed at 20%. Experts expect that the first funds to appear on the Tokyo Stock Exchange may be those linked to Bitcoin (BTC), given its position in Japan and international recognition.

SHIB also retains significant chances for approval, thanks to its listing on the largest marketplace Mercari, with an audience of 23 million users. The asset must meet regulatory requirements before it has a chance for an ETF launch.