Asia Races to Embrace Crypto as Trump Leads the Charge
By Kapil Rajyaguru
As newly elected U.S. president Donald Trump’s pro-crypto stance gains momentum in the US, Asian nations are responding, adjusting their policies to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital-assets sector. Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan have begun shifting their attitudes towards cryptocurrencies in early 2025, driven by a need to stay competitive in the global market.
Trump, who has openly championed the idea of making the US the world’s crypto capital, is fueling an international scramble. His win in the US presidential election sparked predictions that the world would rush to implement crypto-friendly frameworks. In Thailand, discussions are underway about allowing Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to launch locally, following the US’s success in 2024. Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission is embracing this shift, acknowledging that it’s essential to adapt to the growing adoption of digital currencies globally.
In Malaysia, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is pushing for a blockchain and crypto focus, urging the country not to fall behind in the digital transformation. “We must learn from the experiences of others,” he stated, echoing a sentiment shared across Asia’s top business hubs, Singapore and Hong Kong, which have long been crypto leaders.
While Asia is warming up to crypto, its approach remains cautious. Japan’s Financial Services Agency is reviewing its crypto regulations, considering stronger protections for investors. Meanwhile, South Korea is eyeing a potential lifting of its ban on institutional crypto investments. Even Cambodia is moving forward with guidelines for banks interacting with digital assets.
The pressure is on, as the US accelerates its crypto agenda under Trump, leaving Asian nations with little choice but to act swiftly. But as the region takes tentative steps toward embracing crypto, it’s clear that the digital revolution is picking up speed—and Asia must be ready to compete or risk being left behind. The race for crypto dominance is on, and it’s anyone’s game.
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