Malta vs San Marino
Crypto regulation comparison
Malta
San Marino
Malta positioned itself as the 'Blockchain Island' with the 2018 Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) Act, one of the world's first comprehensive crypto regulatory frameworks. The MFSA licenses VFA service providers and oversees ICOs. Long-term crypto holdings are generally not subject to capital gains tax for individuals, while trading profits may be taxed as income.
San Marino has developed a regulatory framework for blockchain entities. The country has issued licenses for blockchain-based businesses.
Key Points
- Virtual Financial Assets Act (2018) provides a comprehensive licensing framework
- MFSA licenses VFA exchanges, brokers, custodians, and portfolio managers
- Long-term crypto holdings generally not subject to capital gains tax for individuals
- Day trading profits may be taxed as business income at progressive rates up to 35%
- Transitioning to EU MiCA framework from December 2024
Key Points
- Delegated Decree on blockchain technology entities issued
- Licenses issued for blockchain-based businesses
- AIF provides regulatory oversight
- Small jurisdiction working to attract blockchain companies
- Developing comprehensive digital asset regulation