Hong Kong vs Sweden
Crypto regulation comparison
Hong Kong
Sweden
Hong Kong has positioned itself as a major crypto hub in Asia with a comprehensive licensing regime. The SFC implemented a mandatory licensing framework for virtual asset trading platforms (VATPs) effective June 2023. Hong Kong has no capital gains tax, making it attractive for crypto investors and businesses.
Cryptocurrency is legal and regulated in Sweden. Crypto capital gains are taxed at a flat 30% rate. Finansinspektionen registers VASPs and oversees compliance. Sweden's Riksbank has been a pioneer in CBDC research with its e-krona project. MiCA applies from December 2024.
Key Points
- Mandatory VATP licensing regime under the AMLO effective June 1, 2023
- No capital gains tax in Hong Kong; profits tax applies only to business profits
- SFC approved spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs for retail investors in April 2024
- HKMA consulting on stablecoin issuer licensing under a dedicated bill
- Hong Kong actively competes with Singapore as Asia's leading crypto hub
Key Points
- Flat 30% tax on crypto capital gains
- Skatteverket (Swedish Tax Agency) actively tracks and taxes crypto; has made bulk data requests to exchanges
- VASPs must register with Finansinspektionen for AML compliance
- Riksbank e-krona CBDC pilot is one of the most advanced in Europe
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024