Bitrabo Editorial
This year, the cryptocurrency sector is generating significant buzz, not just with memes and price surges, but as a prominent topic in political discussions. It’s a major divide among voters and appears poised to elevate the industry further. The subject of digital currencies is not limited to the upcoming US elections, where Donald Trump has positioned himself as pro-crypto; it’s also becoming a focal point in Japan, where general elections are slated for October 27th.
Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the Democratic Party for the People (DPP), has recently unveiled plans for tax reductions and reforms, targeting crypto enthusiasts. On his official Twitter/X account, Tamaki expressed that his party supports tax advantages for cryptocurrencies, proposing cuts of up to 20%.
In a translated post, Tamaki stated:
“If you believe that crypto assets ought to be taxed separately at a rate of 20%, rather than being categorized as miscellaneous income, please vote for the Democratic Party for the People.”
Tamaki Targets Cryptocurrency Supporters in Lead-Up to Elections
This election cycle is particularly significant amidst recent financial scandals and a populace frustrated with leaders enjoying privileges. The elections set for October 27th occur a year earlier than planned due to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s departure following dwindling approval ratings.
【拡散希望】
国民民主党は暗号資産に関して具体的な減税と規制改革を提案しています。暗号資産を雑所得ではなく別途20%で課税するべきとお考えの方は、国民民主党にお投票ください。暗号資産間の取引に税金はかかりません。
これらの政策を広めていただければありがたいです。… pic.twitter.com/hpbX966yTJ
— 玉木雄一郎（国民民主党代表） (@tamakiyuichiro) October 20, 2024
The DPP enters this election as an underdog, holding only seven out of 465 seats in Japan’s lower house, prompting the party to embrace distinctive strategies to draw in voters.
In his tweets, Tamaki encouraged supporters to vote and disseminate the party’s tax reform messages. He also linked to the official policy document and expressed gratitude for those promoting this crypto initiative.
Tamaki’s Crypto Commitment – Key Features
Tamaki’s plan seeks to elevate the role of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in governance and proposes applying a distinct 20% tax on cryptocurrency assets. Presently, these assets face a hefty 55% tax rate categorized under miscellaneous income. The policy discussions also cover loss deductions and tax exemptions for crypto-to-crypto transactions.
総合課税化は将来的な調査課題で、今は取り組んでいません。とにかく、日本をweb3ビジネスのリーダーにしたいと考えています。
— 玉木雄一郎（国民民主党代表） (@tamakiyuichiro) October 20, 2024
Additionally, DPP’s policy document advocates for increased allowable leverage for trading, the establishment of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and plans to transform yen into an ‘electronic currency’ alongside initiating a local digital currency.
Challenges Ahead for Cryptocurrency Regulations
Crypto-related electoral promises are gaining momentum in places like the US and Japan. While Trump is attracting attention from betting markets and Elon Musk lending support, Tamaki’s party confronts its own challenges. Japanese citizens are currently battling inflation and high taxes.
The reactions to Tamaki’s proposals have varied. Some users criticize the government’s attempts to tax struggling citizens, while others show appreciation for what they hope will simplify tax filing.
Featured image from Sakuraco, chart from TradingView