Hong Kong is introducing tax exemptions on crypto investments for high-net-worth individuals, hedge funds, and private equity firms to attract global capital and enhance its position as a cryptocurrency hub in Asia.
This move comes as the U.S., under Donald Trump, considers similar policies to boost the crypto industry.
The Hong Kong government aims to create a favorable environment for investors, with a focus on family offices, which increasingly allocate assets to digital currencies. These changes are part of broader efforts to make Hong Kong a global financial and crypto center, with Patrick Yip of Deloitte China highlighting the clarity these measures will provide for investors.
As other countries like Italy also adjust their crypto tax rates, Hong Kong is expanding exemptions to include private credit and carbon credits, while holding a consultation to further refine the proposal. The city is positioning itself as a leading offshore financial hub, especially as wealthy Chinese investors move their assets abroad due to stricter domestic policies.
With firms like Circle considering expansion in Hong Kong, the city is aiming to compete with established hubs like Singapore and Luxembourg. Experts believe these tax reforms will make Hong Kong a top destination for crypto funds, potentially surpassing Switzerland as a global wealth management leader.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has hinted that U.S. banks may soon see more flexibility when it comes to handling digital assets—a notable shift from the cautious approach regulators have maintained in recent years.
Concerns over unchecked influence in Washington have prompted a new legislative push to tighten ethics rules for part-time federal advisors with ties to powerful corporations.
New York may soon allow residents to use digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum to pay for services tied to the state.
Japan is preparing to reshape its crypto regulations with a fresh proposal that would divide digital assets into two distinct categories—one for business-backed tokens and another for decentralized cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.