Philippines vs Vatican City
Crypto regulation comparison
Philippines
Vatican City
Legal
No Regulation
The Philippines is one of the largest crypto markets in Southeast Asia. The BSP licenses Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) under Circular 1108 (2021), and the SEC regulates crypto as securities where applicable. The Philippines saw massive adoption through play-to-earn games (Axie Infinity) and remittances. Crypto income is taxed at progressive income tax rates.
Vatican City has no cryptocurrency regulation. The micro-state's financial system is focused on the Holy See's financial activities. ASIF provides financial oversight.
Tax Type
Income
Tax Type
None
Tax Rate
0-35%
Tax Rate
N/A
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
No
Mining
Yes
Mining
No
Regulator
BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas), SEC Philippines
Regulator
ASIF (Supervisory and Financial Information Authority)
Stablecoin Rules
BSP regulates virtual asset service providers including stablecoin operations
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin regulation
Key Points
- BSP Circular 1108 (2021) provides comprehensive VASP licensing framework
- BSP has licensed major exchanges including Coins.ph and PDAX
- SEC Philippines regulates crypto securities and has issued warnings on unregistered offerings
- Crypto income taxed at progressive rates (0-35%); 12% VAT may apply to exchanges
- Play-to-earn gaming (Axie Infinity) drove massive adoption, especially in rural areas
Key Points
- No specific cryptocurrency legislation
- ASIF provides financial oversight for the Holy See
- Micro-state with very limited financial market
- No crypto exchanges or services
- AML/CFT framework aligned with international standards