Netherlands vs Senegal
Crypto regulation comparison
Netherlands
Senegal
The Netherlands has one of Europe's strictest crypto regulatory regimes. DNB has overseen VASP registration since 2020 under the Dutch AML/CFT Act (Wwft), and many applications have been rejected. The Netherlands does not tax realized capital gains directly; instead, crypto holdings are taxed under the Box 3 wealth tax based on a deemed return on net assets. The AFM oversees market conduct. MiCA is now the governing framework.
Senegal has no specific national cryptocurrency legislation. As a WAEMU member, the BCEAO does not recognize crypto as legal tender and has issued warnings about risks. Crypto is not illegal but operates without legal protection. BCEAO tightened foreign exchange controls in 2024, and fintech firms now require licenses under BCEAO Instruction 001-01-2024.
Key Points
- DNB requires VASP registration under the Wwft (AML Act); rigorous approval process
- Only a limited number of VASPs have obtained DNB registration (many rejected or withdrawn)
- Crypto taxed under Box 3 wealth tax: deemed return on net assets taxed at ~31-36% (effective ~1.2-1.6%)
- AFM regulates crypto advertising and market conduct; banned crypto ads targeting retail in 2022
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024, transitioning from national DNB regime
Key Points
- No specific national cryptocurrency legislation
- Crypto not illegal but BCEAO has issued warnings about risks
- Part of the WAEMU monetary zone using the CFA franc
- BCEAO tightened foreign exchange controls and AML requirements in 2024
- Fintech firms now require BCEAO licenses under Instruction 001-01-2024