Japan to Fold Crypto Into Traditional Market Rules by 2026

Crypto News Regulation

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: January 05, 2026

Key Takeaways

Japan plans to bring cryptocurrencies under the same regulations that apply to traditional financial markets;
Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama supports using existing stock exchanges as the main entry point for digital assets;
The Financial Services Agency will move oversight of crypto under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act for stricter oversight.

Stop overpaying - start transferring money with Ogvio. Sign up, invite friends & grab Rewards now! 🎁

Japan to Fold Crypto Into Traditional Market Rules by 2026

BITDEGREE IN YOUR SOCIAL FEED

Japan is taking steps to bring cryptocurrencies under the same rules that guide its regular financial markets.

The goal is to manage digital assets through existing exchanges rather than through separate, less-regulated systems.

This direction became clearer after recent comments from Finance and Financial Services Minister Satsuki Katayama. Speaking at the Tokyo Stock Exchange’s New Year ceremony, she stated that 2026 would mark Japan’s first full year of digitalization.

What is a Crypto Airdrop & How to Get FREE Coins? (Animated)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe - We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

Katayama emphasized that stock exchanges and related market systems should serve as the main entry points for blockchain-based assets.

Katayama said during the event:

To ensure citizens benefit from digital and blockchain-based assets, the role of exchanges and market infrastructure will be essential.

She added that the government would support stock exchanges in building more open and efficient markets.

Her comments reflect Japan’s continuing efforts to tighten control over cryptocurrency trading and use. Authorities have been introducing stricter registration processes, taking action against unregistered platforms, and encouraging users to access crypto through regulated systems.

Katayama’s remarks follow a key announcement from the Financial Services Agency (FSA) on December 10, 2025. The agency outlined plans to shift the oversight of crypto from the Payment Services Act to the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act.

Recently, the FSA announced plans to align crypto tax rules with those for equities by proposing legislation for the 2026 parliamentary session. What did the agency say? Read the full story.