Oman vs Singapore
Crypto regulation comparison
Oman
Singapore
Oman has moved to regulate cryptocurrency with the Capital Market Authority issuing a Virtual Assets Regulatory Framework in 2023. VASP licensing is being implemented, and Oman has attracted crypto mining operations due to its energy resources. There is no personal income or capital gains tax in Oman.
Singapore is a leading global crypto hub with a comprehensive regulatory framework under the Payment Services Act (PSA) 2019, amended in 2022. MAS licenses Digital Payment Token (DPT) service providers for AML/KYC compliance and consumer protection. Singapore has no capital gains tax, making it attractive for crypto businesses and investors. However, MAS has progressively tightened retail investor protections, restricting crypto advertising and requiring risk warnings. Short term trading gains is considered income and taxed as such.
Key Points
- CMA issued the Virtual Assets Regulatory Framework in 2023
- VASP licensing regime being implemented under CMA oversight
- No personal income or capital gains tax in Oman
- Oman has attracted large-scale crypto mining operations leveraging its energy sector
- CBO has issued warnings but not banned crypto for individuals
Key Points
- Payment Services Act (PSA) 2019 provides licensing for Digital Payment Token (DPT) services
- MAS issues Major Payment Institution (MPI) and Standard Payment Institution (SPI) licenses for crypto
- No capital gains tax on crypto for individuals; trading profits may be taxed if deemed business income
- MAS introduced stablecoin regulatory framework in August 2023 for SG$-pegged stablecoins
- Strict retail investor protection: crypto advertising restricted, no incentives for trading
Sources
- MAS - Guidelines on Licensing for DTSPs
- MAS - DPT Services Regulated in Singapore
- IRAS - Income Tax Treatment of Digital Tokens
- MAS - Strengthens Regulatory Measures for DPT
- MAS - Expands Scope of Regulated Payment Services
- MAS - Measures to Reduce Risks from Crypto Trading
- MAS - Regulatory Regime for Digital Token Service Providers