Japan’s Finance Minister has acknowledged that crypto assets can play a role in building balanced investment portfolios.
Speaking at the WebX 2025 Conference held in Tokyo, Katsunobu Kato noted that while digital assets are prone to extreme price swings, the creation of a reliable and safe investment environment could make them a viable choice for diversification.
Kato said he intends to concentrate on improving the trading environment in Japan so that investors have better access and protection when engaging with these assets.
His remarks come at a time when Japan is grappling with tough economic conditions. The nation’s public debt rose to 234.9% of GDP as of March, placing it among the most indebted economies globally.
The heavy debt load has pushed the government into relying on policies such as currency devaluation and ultra-low interest rates, strategies often described by economists as “financial repression.” These measures reduce the returns on safe, traditional investments like bank deposits and bonds, pushing people to look elsewhere for growth.
The weakening of the yen has only made matters more pressing, as it raises the cost of imports and reduces the purchasing power of money held in savings. Against this backdrop, crypto assets appear more appealing as a way to protect and diversify investments.
The minister’s supportive stance aligns with recent calls from the Financial Services Agency (FSA), Japan’s financial regulator, to reform the tax system for digital assets. At present, crypto earnings are taxed as miscellaneous income, with rates ranging anywhere from 15% to 56% depending on an individual’s income bracket.
The FSA has suggested moving to a flat rate of 20.315%, similar to how stock gains are treated. The change would simplify taxation and potentially encourage more participation in the crypto market.
Meanwhile, crypto is gaining ground in Japan’s corporate sector. Bitcoin (BTC) treasury firm Metaplanet was recently moved to a mid-cap stock in FTSE Russell’s September review. This move qualifies its shares for inclusion in the widely followed FTSE Japan Index.
Japan’s financial giants are also exploring blockchain technology on a larger scale. SBI Group, one of the country’s biggest financial players, has partnered with Chainlink to create blockchain-based tools for Asian institutions. In addition, SBI recently signed deals with Circle, Ripple, and Startale to further expand blockchain use cases.
Reports also suggest that the FSA may approve yen-backed stablecoins later this year, underscoring the country’s shift toward integrating digital assets into its financial system.
Such endorsement coming from the finance minister suggests that leading economies around the world are coming around on matters related to digital assets. Crypto industry players like MARA Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARA) will see these signals as positive steps towards crypto becoming more integrated in global financial markets.
About CryptoCurrencyWire
CryptoCurrencyWire (“CCW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on blockchain and the cryptocurrency sector. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CCW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CCW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CCW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.
To receive SMS alerts from CryptoCurrencyWire, text “CRYPTO” to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CryptoCurrencyWire website applicable to all content provided by CCW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com/Disclaimer
CryptoCurrencyWire
New York, NY
www.CryptoCurrencyWire.com
212.994.9818 Office
Editor@CryptoCurrencyWire.com
CryptoCurrencyWire is powered by IBN
The stablecoin market has reached a historic milestone, crossing the $300 billion mark in total…
Wall Street giant Morgan Stanley has encouraged investors to consider allocating between 2% and 4%…
Russia is taking steps to create its own system for managing crypto transactions through government-backed…
Beeline Holdings Inc. continues to see growing opportunities in the millennials and Gen Z market…
The company has eliminated more than $7 million in debt, excluding warehouse credit lines tied…
Kazakhstan has introduced its first national cryptocurrency reserve—the Alem Crypto Fund—with BNB chosen as the…