Belgium vs Nicaragua
Crypto regulation comparison
Belgium
Nicaragua
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal in Belgium and regulated under the EU's MiCA framework. Tax treatment depends on whether gains are considered normal management of private assets (tax-free), speculative (33% misc income), or professional income (progressive rates). The FSMA has banned distribution of crypto derivatives to consumers.
Nicaragua regulates virtual assets under Law 1072 (2021) and BCN resolution CD-BCN-XXV-1-22 (2022). VASPs must be licensed by BCN. Crypto gains taxed at 15% capital gains rate.
Tax Type
Varies
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Rate
0-33%
Tax Rate
15%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
FSMA (Financial Services and Markets Authority)
Regulator
Banco Central de Nicaragua (BCN)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin regulation
Key Points
- Tax treatment depends on classification: normal portfolio management (0%), speculation (33%), or professional (up to 50%)
- FSMA banned advertising of crypto derivatives and certain crypto products to consumers in 2022
- VASPs must register with FSMA and comply with AML/KYC requirements
- MiCA regulation fully applicable from December 2024
- Belgium has a relatively active crypto community and blockchain ecosystem
Key Points
- Law 1072 (2021) defines virtual assets and regulates VASPs
- BCN is designated as the licensing and supervisory authority
- Banks are legally permitted to offer virtual asset services
- Capital gains taxed at 15% on crypto profits
- Government monitors virtual transactions exceeding ,000 since 2025