Malta vs Uruguay
Crypto regulation comparison
Malta
Uruguay
Legal
Legal
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.
Uruguay has a generally favorable stance toward cryptocurrency. The BCU has not banned crypto and in 2024 introduced regulations for virtual asset service providers. Crypto income may be taxed at 12% under the IRPF (personal income tax) as capital income. Uruguay has a stable economy and is positioning itself as a fintech hub in Latin America.
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Type
Income
Tax Rate
0-35%
Tax Rate
12%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
MFSA (Malta Financial Services Authority)
Regulator
BCU (Banco Central del Uruguay)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under MFSA VFA framework and EU MiCA
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation
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
- BCU introduced VASP regulations in 2024
- Crypto income taxed at 12% as capital income under IRPF
- Crypto not classified as legal tender; peso remains the national currency
- Uruguay has a relatively stable economy and favorable fintech environment
- AML/KYC requirements apply to registered VASPs