Japan Proposes Two-Tier Crypto Asset Classification to Regulate Tokens Like Securities

Sun Apr 13 2025
Japan’s FSA is introducing a two-tier crypto asset system to align token regulation with traditional finance. Learn what this means for Bitcoin, Ethereum, ICOs, and DeFi.

🇯🇵 Japan’s New Crypto Framework: Two Types, One Goal — Clarity

Japan is stepping up with a clear and structured approach to crypto regulation. In its latest report, the Financial Services Agency (FSA) proposes a two-tier classification system designed to improve transparency, reduce risk, and align digital assets with traditional finance.


🧩 Two Types of Crypto Assets — Explained

The FSA proposes dividing crypto into:

🔴 Type 1: Fundraising Tokens

  • Issued for raising capital (e.g. ICOs, DeFi, startups)
  • Require strict disclosure and investor protection
  • Must follow Japan’s Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA)
  • Issuers must explain:
    • How funds will be used
    • Business operations
    • Anti-manipulation controls

🔵 ** 2: Utility & Value Tokens**

  • Includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.
  • Used for payments or store of value
  • No central issuer — so less direct oversight
  • Monitored via regulated exchanges for market integrity and volatility

⚖️ Bridging Crypto and Traditional Finance

By applying FIEA rules to Type 1 tokens, Japan brings crypto fundraising closer to how stocks and securities are regulated — adding layers of protection like:

  • ✅ Anti-fraud standards
  • ✅ Insider trading prevention
  • ✅ Transparent business disclosures

This structure reflects a global trend: treat crypto fundraising like real finance, not just code and hype.


📬 Public Feedback & What’s Next

🗓️ Deadline: May 10, 2025
📢 Japan is opening the floor to public input. Developers, investors, and institutions are all invited to weigh in.

Final rules will be shaped by:

  • Local feedback
  • International standards
  • Ongoing global regulatory cooperation

🌏 Why This Matters Globally

Japan isn’t just regulating — it’s setting an example. The FSA has previously called for:

  • Stricter oversight of crypto providers
  • Global alignment on treating exchanges like banks
  • Responsible innovation frameworks

If this model works, it could influence how the EU, UK, and Asia structure their own crypto laws — especially as DeFi and tokenized securities go mainstream.


🧠 TL;DR

  • Japan’s FSA proposes a two-tier system:
    • Type 1 = fundraising tokens → strict regulation under FIEA
    • Type 2 = utility/store-of-value tokens → lighter exchange-based oversight
  • Public comments open until May 10
  • Aims to align crypto with traditional investor protections
  • Could become a global regulatory blueprint

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