Japan is set to introduce a flat 20% tax on cryptocurrency gains, a major change that would bring digital assets in line with equities and investment trusts. The proposal, backed by the government and ruling coalition, aims to move crypto profits into a separate-taxation framework, where income is handled independently from salaries and business earnings.

The reform marks one of Japan’s most significant updates to its crypto policy in years, signaling regulators’ growing recognition of digital assets as a mainstream investment class. Under the plan, the 20% tax would be split between the national government and regional authorities at 15% and 5% respectively, with the measure expected to be included in the 2026 tax reform package.

Retail traders currently face progressive tax rates that can climb to 55%, a major deterrent to domestic activity. The shift arrives as Japan’s regulated exchanges continue to expand, with the Japan Virtual and Crypto Assets Exchange Association reporting more than $9.6 billion in spot trading volume on local platforms in September.

Ripple Labs scored a major regulatory boost after Singapore’s Monetary Authority approved an expansion of the company’s Major Payment Institution license. The upgrade strengthens Ripple’s position in one of the world’s most crypto-friendly financial hubs and deepens its long-standing presence in the region.

Ripple executives say the expanded permissions will let the company better support institutions driving Asia Pacific’s fast-growing crypto adoption. President Monica Long called the approval proof that innovation thrives under clear rules, adding that Ripple will continue investing in Singapore to build faster and safer cross-border payment infrastructure. While the full list of added services wasn’t disclosed, Vice President Fiona Murray noted the move will enhance Ripple’s ability to meet rising demand for digital asset solutions across the region.

Ripple has operated in Singapore since 2017 and received its initial MPI license in 2023, granting it the ability to offer digital payment token services. Its regulated payment network—powered by RLUSD and XRP—enables rapid, end-to-end transfers including collection, holding, swapping, and payouts.

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