Cryptocurrency Regulations in Singapore: How Do They Compare Globally?

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - As cryptocurrency continues to grow in adoption and market value, governments worldwide are crafting laws and regulations to address this evolving financial landscape. Among these nations, Singapore stands out as one that has recently updated its cryptocurrency regulations. 

While approaches may vary, Singapore and other countries share a common focus on enhancing security within the digital asset landscape.

Cryptocurrency Regulations Around the World

Citing Britannica, Investopedia, and Crystal Intelligence, this article explores cryptocurrency regulations in five key countries that every investor should be aware of.

1. Singapore

Singapore has long earned a reputation as a crypto-friendly country, and it continues to stay proactive in updating its regulatory framework. This mid-year, a new mandate will take effect, requiring all Digital Token Service Providers (DTSPs) offering services to outside Singapore to be licensed.

According to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), these providers must obtain a license by June 30 or cease their operations. As quoted by Cointelegraph, the regulation applies to centralized crypto exchanges, DeFi platforms, wallet providers, token issuers, and even non-crypto firms if they offer token-related services to overseas clients.

Firms that fail to comply with the regulation may face fines of up to SGD 250,000 (approximately USD 200,000) and imprisonment for up to three years.

2. Switzerland

Cited as one of the most progressive countries in terms of cryptocurrency regulations, Switzerland aligns with global efforts to prevent the misuse of digital assets for tax evasion. Through the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), the Swiss Federal Council has agreed to a draft law enabling the automatic exchange of tax-related information on crypto assets with 74 partner countries, including all EU member states and the United Kingdom. This regulation will be effective by 2027, if the Swiss parliament passes it later this year.

3. Spain

Spain is set to implement new cryptocurrency regulations starting January 2026, requiring the reporting of crypto ownership and transactions to the tax authority. As part of the EU's DAC8 directive, this law aims to strengthen cooperation among member states on tax matters. Additionally, crypto companies operating in Spain will also be required to report their customers' international transactions.

4. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom regulates cryptocurrency similarly to traditional financial instruments. Under the oversight of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), crypto firms are required to comply with key regulations, including Know Your Customer (KYC) standards, anti-money laundering (AML), and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) measures. Investors are also subject to taxation when profits are earned from crypto trading, although taxability depends on the specific activities and the individual or entity involved.

5. Canada

Although cryptocurrency is not considered legal tender in Canada, the country maintains a firm and structured stance on the presence of digital assets. It has established relatively clear and comprehensive cryptocurrency regulations, classifying all crypto investment firms as Money Services Businesses (MSBs), and requiring all to register with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).

Any individual or company that trades or offers advice on securities or derivatives are also required to register with the appropriate provincial or territorial securities regulator. As cryptocurrencies are treated as commodities in Canada, they are subject to capital gains tax.

Cryptocurrency regulations vary strikingly from one country to another. While many nations embrace innovation and seek to integrate crypto into their financial systems, they also draw clear boundaries to mitigate associated risks.

Don’t end your discovery here; let’s take a look at the top crypto-friendly countries in 2025.

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