Policy & Regulation·Sep 19, 2023
Japan Moves to Allow Startups to Sell Digital Tokens to VC Funds
Japan Moves to Allow Startups to Sell Digital Tokens to VC FundsIn a move that further advances Japan’s efforts in the digital assets space, the country is poised to permit startups to raise capital from venture capital firms using digital assets instead of traditional stock.The approval of this approach will provide a broader spectrum of funding options for emerging companies deeply entrenched in the world of blockchain technology.Photo by Bagus Pangestu on PexelsAcceptance beyond conventional assetsCurrently, limited partnerships in Japan are predominantly associated with conventional assets such as shares, stock options, and security tokens defined by local securities laws. However, according to a report published by local financial daily Nikkei Asia on Friday, an impending rule change is set to expand this list to encompass other tokens and crypto assets, heralding a fresh era of investment opportunities in a domain that has remained relatively under-explored within the country.The Japanese government is on track to present the requisite legal revisions to the parliament, with expectations for this transformational move to occur as early as 2024. Unlike traditional shares, blockchain-based tokens offer the unique advantage of swift creation without the need for intermediaries or brokerage services.Consequently, fundraising via digital assets is becoming the preferred choice for companies operating in the cutting-edge realm of Web3 technologies, including blockchain.In Japan, a number of companies, such as the blockchain developer HashPalette, have already raised substantial amounts through token offerings. However, the existing limitations obstructing limited partnerships from investing in tokens have hindered Japanese venture capital firms and institutional investors from partaking in the burgeoning success of Web3 enterprises.Overseas token issuanceTraditionally, startups have resorted to issuing tokens in overseas locations like Singapore and Dubai. On the venture capital front, Japanese powerhouse Skyland Ventures ventured into tokens through its Singapore-based subsidiary.Notably, Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) is contemplating a tax code revision for fiscal year 2024 and beyond, with the objective of exempting crypto assets and tokens from taxes on unrealized gains based on market value. This strategic move aims to eliminate a significant deterrent for potential investors in the field.While venture capital firms are eagerly anticipating this legislative change, some, like B Dash Ventures, acknowledge that the revision of the limited partnership law alone may not trigger an immediate surge in fundraising via virtual currencies. Nevertheless, it marks a significant step toward fostering a more conducive environment for digital asset investment.Removal of limited partnership restrictionsJapan’s forward-looking approach also extends to the removal of restrictions on limited partnerships that previously mandated them to invest more than half of their capital within the domestic market. This move is expected to bolster profits, empower venture capital firms with more substantial capital reserves, and ultimately fuel investment in domestic startups.Japan’s decision to embrace the potential of digital assets for startup fundraising is a progressive move. Initial exchange offerings (IEOs) are already authorized in Japan, but this proposed funding mechanism would offer a new channel through which Web3 innovation can be financed within the East Asian island nation. Given that most Web3 startups raise funds in this way, it will mean that Japanese-based firms in the Web3 space will be able to develop and participate fully as this innovation rolls out further on a global basis.
