JPX Sets Sights on 2027 Crypto ETF Launch with Regulatory Reforms in Mind

The Japan Exchange Group (JPX) has announced plans to launch crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in 2027, pending regulatory reforms. This move marks a shift from earlier expectations of a 2028 launch, indicating that asset managers have shown strong interest in the potential for regulated crypto investment products.

According to JPX's CEO, Hiromi Yamaji, the group will prepare listings once legal and tax reforms are settled. The timeline is tied to Japan's planned crypto tax cut, which would lower gains from 55% to a flat 20% rate, matching the rate for stocks and investment trusts.

Several financial firms have already positioned themselves for this shift, with Nomura Asset Management, SBI Global Asset Management, and Daiwa Asset Management reportedly studying or preparing ETF products. Meanwhile, SBI Holdings has disclosed plans for a fund tracking Bitcoin and XRP, as well as a mixed trust allocating 51% to gold ETFs and 49% to Bitcoin ETFs.