The Best Countries to Launch an Initial Coin Offering
Which country is the greatest for an initial coin offering (ICO) launch?
Let's look at the nature of the ICO to see which countries are the most ICO-friendly. The Initial Coin Offering (ICO) has lately been one of the most popular ways and techniques of generating capital for all types of blockchain firms, thanks to the continual growth of the cryptocurrency industry. Due to its independence from local government and bank laws, the ICO has shown to be a successful means to begin new ventures, particularly for small firms and entrepreneurs. In comparison to an IPO, an ICO takes less time to complete, and investors receive their incentives sooner.
A lack of controls, on the other hand, may not necessarily be advantageous, as easy access to funds opens up new avenues for fraudulent activity. Furthermore, we must acknowledge that not all ICO projects succeed, and that some of them fail due to bad organisation. As a result, the question of regulatory oversight in the ICO process arises. In order to give greater security, 2018 promises to be a better year in this area. Let's take a look at different countries' regulatory frameworks and see which ones are the most ICO-friendly in 2018.
ICOs are prohibited in some countries.
Financial regulators around the world are issuing warnings to investors, stating that initial coin offerings (ICOs) may result in losses due to fraud vulnerability. As a result, numerous countries have enacted bans and limitations, believing that ICOs are fertile ground for scammers. In 2017, South Korea, for example, outlawed all types of ICOs, leading a global trend of financial laws. Such startups, according to the Financial Services Commission, are ineffective and should be prohibited to reduce risk.
The People's Bank of China (PBoC) initially issued warnings about Bitcoin, but in September 2017, they expanded its focus to include initial coin offerings (ICOs). The authorities have stated emphatically that token sales are disruptive and illegal, and that they have an impact on the financial market's stability. In just four days after this restriction, about $35 billion in total capitalizations vanished! Without a question, this had an impact on cryptocurrency prices all across the world. Furthermore, finished ICOs were asked to return the monies raised. All cases of rule infractions are still being investigated by the PBoC.
What are the ramifications of such prohibitions?
Asian authorities' bans and limitations may cause an economic bubble to collapse, particularly in the western market. Regulations will become necessary as soon as any cryptocurrency is used as a security investment, resulting in a rapid bubble burst.
Other countries may not adhere to the same rules. It is possible to demonstrate the benefits of an alternative transaction system and demonstrate its efficiency by resisting the ban wave. All that remains is for better-developed regulations to be implemented.
Validation will be used in all aspects of cryptocurrencies. Of course, the government will pay close attention to ICOs. Still, it's critical to recognise that these campaigns are the way of the future, and they're here to stay. As a result, such attention will only have a positive impact on the development of blockchain infrastructure.
It is important to note that the widespread consensus is that these bans will be lifted. Even Asian governments are anticipated to lift their restrictions on ICOs after enforcing their rules and implementing regulations.
For example, Japan's financial services industry has approved 11 companies to run bitcoin exchanges, with no restrictions for ICO projects.
Despite its location in China, Hong Kong is a self-governing territory with no ICO limitations. However, new regulations may be imposed on the subject. There are certain hints about the nature of altcoins as of now. When some of them meet these conditions, they can be classified as securities.
Countries that are allowing initial coin offerings (ICOs) with future regulations
Cryptocurrencies are thought to be a viable financial choice in the future. In 2017, more than 200 initial coin offerings (ICOs) raised more than $3 billion, according to Coinschedule.
As more governments recognise its potential, they are looking for ways to legalise virtual currency and carefully conduct initial coin offerings (ICOs) so that they do not fall behind in the global evolution. Let's look at various countries and their ICO regulatory policies to help you choose the best country for your ICO launch.
United States of America (USA)
ICOs are legal in the United States, but they are strictly regulated. There are no clear prohibitions on running ICO campaigns at the federal level. State laws, on the other hand, differ.
Regulations in the United States. In the United States, there are a variety of options that are problematic.
Here are a few states that have been designated as Bitcoin-friendly, with blockchain transactions protected and smart contracts enabled.
Nevada has passed a blockchain-friendly bill that exempts cryptocurrency transactions from paying taxes. Local governments feel that entrepreneurs should employ ICO technology to advance the economy.
Arizona will be the next state to adopt this welcoming attitude. It has passed legislation that recognises the use of smart contracts and blockchain technology.
Texas and New Hampshire are also encouraging cryptocurrency transactions, emphasising honesty, integrity, and legitimacy.
Other states, on the other hand, may require enterprises to get permits in order to engage in cryptocurrency activities, including registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission. They argue that initial coin offerings (ICOs) should be classed similarly to securities.
Legislators in Washington have passed a measure that allows bitcoin exchanges solely within the state. Furthermore, it necessitates the collection of personal data from customers. As a result, a number of firms were hesitant to launch their initial coin offerings in the state.
The state of Illinois is enthusiastic about blockchain technology, but it has also released digital currency regulatory guidelines that tightly regulates a variety of digital currency activities.
In California, one must be legally licenced by local authorities before engaging in blockchain technologies or launching an initial coin offering (ICO). Taking the New York legislation as an example, such action might result in a loss of market position in the bitcoin market, especially because California is the technological centre of the world.
The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom, like many other countries, has issued warnings to its citizens regarding the risky nature of initial coin offerings. They do encourage successful ventures, but treat ICOs as entities early in the development stage, it must be acknowledged. They are experimenting with ICOs by recognising cryptocurrencies as private currency in order to keep their investors safe and prevent them from losing their money. Companies looking to start an ICO can now take advantage of current regulations governing private property. Let's take a closer look at the GDPR and what it entails.
The European Union (EU)
The EU is largely supportive of ICOs, particularly in terms of anti-money laundering and know-your-customer laws. Any initial coin offering function, as well as each organisation dealing with an ICO, must be regulated and registered.
These laws, on the other hand, have no bearing on the amount of money flowing into EU-based ICO projects. In recent years, European ICOs have raised more money than any other country. The European Union accounts for over 40% of all ICOs. According to Dealroom, the number of unique investors has climbed by 31% over the last year, and the number of rounds has roughly tripled.
The number of active investors in EU enterprises is increasing.
Australia
ICOs are legal in Australia, but they are regulated. It was one of the first governments to issue codified regulations. If a campaign requires many investments, it must adhere to the Corporations Act's guidelines. Blockchain technologies, according to local governments, are innovative and have the potential to affect capital market development. They provide ICO guidance that demonstrates how new businesses can work within the regulatory environment. In Australia, an innovation hub has been established to support and guide users through the framework, assuring investor and customer trust and security.
The payment network system Havven was the most successful ICO in Australia. It has amassed a total of $30 million!
Ukraine
Ukraine appears to be another potential location for ICOs. Although there are some laws to consider, it is quite viable to build profitable enterprises in this country. The local administration is forming a working group of experts to provide legally sound suggestions for working with cryptocurrencies, expanding the crypto-market, and ensuring safe and secure transactions.
Dmarket (a marketplace for entertainment), which raised over $19 million in the token sale, and DreamTeam (an esports and gaming recruiting management network), which raised almost $6 million, are two examples of the top ICOs.
The Cryptoauxiliary team professionals will assist and collaborate with you if you have any issues regarding how to conduct an ICO.
Which Countries Support the Initial Coin Offering (ICO)?
It is vital to examine each country's ICO history in order to highlight the top countries for blockchain firms. The top country is thought to be the one with the most successful ICO launches. As a result, we'll define successful ICOs as those that:
have a stable market position, are not embroiled in legal matters, are still active, and have not been identified in fraudulent schemes that have raised more than $10 million.
The following is a list of countries where ICOs have raised more than $10 million.
Singapore
Why is Singapore the greatest place to launch an initial coin offering (ICO)? Singapore is a desirable location for blockchain-related firms due to a number of factors. The Singapore Monetary Authority released clarification on token sales as well as ICO recommendations, noting when ICOs should be classified as securities and when they should not. It all relies on the situation and the commercial transaction. In general, Singapore seems unconcerned about cryptocurrency operations, though it does caution about potential dangers. Its positive attitude enables blockchain companies to launch their initial coin offerings (ICOs) and develop innovative ideas. Furthermore, the government-backed system has shown to be dependable, providing significant chances for businesses.
The Enjin Coin (ENJ) is a shining example of a successful Singapore ICO. It's a game platform that lets you create your own currency and items.
The coin is not regarded as a security since it fails the Howey Test. Furthermore, transactions on this platform are trustless and verified using Ethereum. This ICO might be questioned in any other country with stricter legislation. However, it has raised more than $20 million in Singapore and has grown to become the largest gaming community there.
Switzerland
Switzerland is without a doubt one of the most important centres for ICO launches. Consider it as an option if you're looking for a country to start an ICO in. It attracts numerous successful ICO campaigns due to its blockchain-friendly policy and the Crypto Valley community. Tezos, Bancor, Status, and the DAO, the four largest ICOs of 2017, were all hosted in this country. The city government is willing to encourage technical advancements and the growth of the blockchain industry.
We can see how much money ICOs like Bancor, Tezos, the DAO, and Status have raised after debuting in Switzerland in the graphic below. Switzerland is regarded as the most ICO-friendly country, according to many.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands, a British colony, is an intriguing option for any firm looking to conduct an ICO. Its political and legislative platform provides a regulatory framework based on international standards, resulting in fewer rules. If you want to conduct blockchain transactions in the Cayman Islands, you must first learn about the token-building procedure. As previously stated, if it is classified as a security, it must comply with SEC laws. The term "security" is not applied to an ICO token under the Cayman Islands definition, which is a favourable aspect that favours the token sale procedure. Another advantage is that local regulatory authorities have established a proper blockchain supervisory structure and are not delaying adoption, which attracts many entrepreneurs.
Block One is a successful initial coin offering (ICO) that raised over $185 million in just a few days in the Cayman Islands! It creates free market structures to protect people's lives, property, and liberty. It has shown to be the most powerful infrastructure for applications that are not controlled by any central authority.
The Isle of Man
Despite being a self-governing country, the Isle of Man is a British crown dependency. As a result, their policy on token sales is in line with the UK's anti-money laundering strategy and know your customer (KYC) regulation. The dependency, on the other hand, sees ICOs as having a lot of potential and believes they represent a huge vertical market. As a result, the government have enacted liberal legislation in order to boost blockchain activity on the island, and they are happy to assist all firms during the token sale process.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar's government has produced a white paper classifying tokens as commercial products rather than securities. As a result, ICOs can be readily created there. The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission also has a regulatory structure in place that requires each ICO issuer to have a supervisor who verifies that all regulations are followed. This is not a negative because the regime assists issuers in organising a safe and risk-free campaign. Furthermore, the market, not authorities, determines what constitutes "excellent" token sales for investors.
Gibraltar is home to four initial coin offerings (ICOs) that have raised more than $10 million. WePower ($40 million), Energi Token ($15 million), Rentberry ($30 million), and Globitex ($15.5 million) are among the companies that have received funding.
Mauritius
This Indian Ocean island nation is a financial haven for international investors! It has one of the highest salaries and draws a lot of companies looking to establish their own ICOs. Mauritius has a strong and safe financial system due to its political and economic stability. In just a few days, a blockchain startup can be started here! It is important to note that the security regulations are friendly, therefore a token can be created that does not fall under that precise criteria. The regulatory sandbox is also advantageous, particularly for companies that wish to be regulated. In terms of taxation, there is a $350 registration cost and a $350 annual fee. Mauritius, on the other hand, isn't as privileged as Switzerland or Singapore because of its reputation as a dirty tax haven.
Malta
Another lovely location for blockchain startups! The government promotes itself as an ICO-friendly jurisdiction. Businesses can particularly profit from the 5% tax rate for foreign entrepreneurs, which is reduced to 0% on specific token models. Malta provides an ICO hosting platform that covers all aspects of an ICO launch, from token creation to ICO development plans to multi-signature wallet security. The procedure of launching an ICO can take some time and work, but the benefits are clear, as all ICOs in this country are legally protected.
As of November 2017, the Baltic nations of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia have committed to supporting blockchain development technologies in their respective countries. Local governments have agreed to work together to build regional capital markets, according to a Memorandum of Understanding.
Baltic Nations
For the most part, all of the Baltic countries support initial coin offerings. They are ICO-friendly because to factors like as a good technology environment, the ability to manage campaigns from afar, and supportive local governments. Certain legal difficulties remain, and should be taken into account while conducting an ICO.
Russia
Within Russia, blockchain operations are also permitted. There are no specific limits at this time, but they may be subject to future regulations. Token registration and taxation, as well as security compliance, are in place, according to Kremlin demands. There's also a plan for token use in a single payment system.
Russia is home to a large number of successful initial coin offerings (ICOs). The companies who raised more than $10 million in the token sale are listed below.
After discussing the ideal nations to start an ICO, it's vital to note that their regulatory views regarding blockchain technologies varies significantly. Each one has a unique approach to constructing frameworks. However, as previously stated, certain restrictions are extremely strict, while others provide new prospects for ICOs. To summarise, here are the key characteristics of the greatest countries for blockchain startups:
To avoid SEC restrictions, ICO tokens should not be classified as securities.
The host country's government should be supportive of blockchain development and encourage it.
Let's look at the top ICO-friendly countries, taking into account the elements we outlined, as well as the sandbox regulatory policies, taxation and bank operations perks, and, of course, the highest number of completed ICOs (over $10 million raised):
The benefits of launching an ICO are self-evident. We expect that more countries will open their doors to start-ups and become more crypto-friendly. Please contact the Cryptoauxiliary support team if you have any additional queries or require full-cycle technical support for your ICO. Nowadays