资本研·观｜日本为加密资产ETF的推出铺路

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing interest and regulatory discussions surrounding cryptocurrency ETFs in Japan, particularly in the context of the recent approval of Bitcoin spot ETFs in the United States, which has sparked a demand for similar investment vehicles in Japan [2][5]. Group 1: Regulatory Developments in Japan - The Japanese government is actively discussing the regulation of cryptocurrency assets, with the Liberal Democratic Party releasing a "Web3 White Paper 2024" that includes recommendations for cryptocurrency ETFs [5]. - In March 2025, the Liberal Democratic Party proposed a reform plan to classify cryptocurrency as a new asset category distinct from securities, aiming to enhance market health and investor protection [5][6]. - The Financial Services Agency of Japan published a discussion document in April 2025, suggesting a reevaluation of the legal framework surrounding cryptocurrency under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act [6]. Group 2: Market Demand for Cryptocurrency ETFs - As of January 2025, over 12 million accounts have been opened on cryptocurrency exchanges in Japan, with a total custody balance exceeding 5 trillion yen, indicating strong interest in cryptocurrency investments [6]. - A survey conducted by Nomura Holdings in June 2024 revealed that 53% of institutional investors prefer investing in cryptocurrency through listed investment trusts (ETFs), while 31% favor direct investment [7][10]. - Among individual investors, 42% expressed interest in domestic and foreign investment trusts and ETFs, significantly higher than the 11% interested in direct cryptocurrency holdings [8][10]. Group 3: Impact of Bitcoin Spot ETFs - The approval of Bitcoin spot ETFs in the U.S. has led to increased attention and investment in cryptocurrency, with institutional investors holding approximately $27 billion in Bitcoin spot ETFs by the end of 2024 [13][14]. - The introduction of Bitcoin spot ETFs has resulted in significant capital inflows, with a reported net inflow of about $900 million on a single day in April 2025, pushing the total net asset value of Bitcoin spot ETFs to over $100 billion [25]. - Bitcoin is viewed as a low-correlation asset to traditional financial assets, enhancing portfolio diversification for investors [26][27]. Group 4: Institutional and Tax Considerations - The establishment of cryptocurrency ETFs in Japan could follow several legal frameworks, including investment trusts under the Investment Trusts and Investment Corporations Act and foreign fund introductions [29][30]. - Tax treatment for cryptocurrency transactions in Japan currently categorizes profits as miscellaneous income, while ETF trading profits are classified as capital gains, leading to potential inconsistencies in tax treatment [34]. - The article suggests that aligning the tax treatment of cryptocurrency ETFs with that of traditional financial assets could enhance market liquidity and investor participation [34].