Planning to start a crypto exchange in 2025?

Hold on. Before you move forward, here is something important you need to know.

Starting a business is not just about what you offer. It is also about where you start it. The country you choose plays a big role in how fast and how well your business grows.

Let us make it simple. You might have heard the famous line  “Sell me this pen.”

You can only sell the pen if the person really needs it. Right?

Same with your crypto exchange. You need to launch it in a country where people are open to crypto and where the rules help your business grow.

So what’s the next step? Simple. Choose the right country.

In this blog, you will find the top 10 profitable countries that are best for starting a crypto exchange business in 2025. These countries are crypto-friendly, have smooth rules, and give you more chances to grow.

Curious to know which country is best for you? Then keep reading.

Top 10 Crypto-Friendly Countries to Start an Exchange Business in 2025

1. United States – Big investor market and strong tech support
2. Singapore – Clear crypto rules and supports new tech
3. UAE – Crypto-friendly place with tax benefits
4. Switzerland – A Safe country with trusted crypto banks
5. Canada – Clear laws and growing crypto usage
6. Hong Kong – Good location with set crypto rules
7. Australia – Safe, legal crypto system with fast approvals
8. Nigeria – High crypto use and a fast-growing market
9. El Salvador – Bitcoin is legal and has low crypto taxes
10. Germany -A growing crypto market with good support for businesses.

1. United States

The USA is one of the biggest markets for crypto exchange businesses in 2025. With over 450+ registered crypto companies and strong support from investors, it's a great place to build a scalable crypto platform.

There are also 30,230+ Bitcoin ATMs across the country, showing how popular and accessible crypto is for everyday users.

According to Binance, this country has the most blockchain startups and leads in trading volume. While regulations vary by state, the overall system supports long-term crypto projects.

You’ll need to follow important rules from agencies like the SEC, FinCEN, and CFTC. These cover things like investor protection and anti-money laundering.

Some states, like Wyoming and Florida, are more crypto-friendly, making it easier to get started.

Quick note: The corporate tax rate is around 20%, and you’ll need to register with FinCEN before launching your platform.

2. Singapore

Singapore is one of the easiest places in Asia to start a crypto exchange. The country has clear crypto rules under the Payment Services Act, which gives legal support to crypto businesses. There’s no ban on crypto, and no capital gains tax on crypto transactions.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) watches over crypto activity to keep users safe. Plus, Singapore has a strong economy and supports tech innovation, making it a top spot for crypto startups in Southeast Asia.

Also Read: How to Start a Crypto Exchange Business in Singapore 

3. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is now one of the top places for crypto businesses. Why?

They offer 0% personal income tax and simple rules for getting a license. Dubai has VARA, and Abu Dhabi uses ADGM – both make the process easy.

Many top crypto companies, like Binance and Bybit, already have offices in the UAE.

More than 27% to 30% of people in the UAE now use or hold crypto. That’s a huge number! Even schools like Khalifa University offer blockchain courses. They also host events to teach and promote crypto.

So, why choose the UAE to start your crypto exchange business?

• No capital gains tax
• Strong support from the government
• Big crypto events all year
• Friendly rules for new businesses

If you're planning to start your crypto exchange, the UAE is a smart place to begin.

4. Switzerland

Switzerland is known as “Crypto Valley” because it supports blockchain and crypto startups in a big way.

Zug, a small city in Switzerland, is home to over 900+ blockchain companies. It’s one of the most crypto-friendly cities in the world.

The country has strong privacy rules, secure banking, and a safe economy. This makes it a great place to build a trusted crypto exchange.

Switzerland’s Economic Minister once said the country’s goal is to become a “Crypto Nation.” That shows how serious they are.

Key Points You Should Know:

• All crypto companies must register with FINMA, the official regulator.
• If users are not full-time traders, they don’t pay capital gains tax.
• Corporate tax is between 12% and 21%, depending on the location.

5. Canada

Canada supports crypto with clear rules, making it safer to start and grow an exchange business. The financial regulator, FINTRAC, makes the laws easy to follow. This reduces legal risk for new crypto companies.

Toronto and Vancouver are the top tech cities in Canada. They have blockchain experts, investors, and fast-growing crypto communities.

Toronto is now seen as a global hub for blockchain, with many startups choosing it as their base.

Key Points You Should Know:

• Crypto exchanges must register under FINTRAC.
• Canada offers good tax benefits for long-term crypto holders.
• The legal system is stable, making it easy to plan ahead.

6. Hong Kong

Hong Kong has reopened its doors to crypto businesses with a new licensing system and clear government support.

The city has a strong financial background and is known for its global banking networks. This helps crypto startups grow faster and safer.

Hong Kong also connects easily with Asian markets. If you want to expand in Asia, this city is a smart starting point.

OKX, one of the top crypto exchanges, is already working from Hong Kong. That shows how trusted the city is for crypto business.

Key Points You Should Know:

• Hong Kong now follows a government-backed crypto license framework.
• It’s a top location for blockchain and crypto exchange companies.
• Easy access to nearby Asian markets makes it perfect for scaling.

7. Australia

Australia sees crypto as a financial product. So, any crypto business needs a license from AUSTRAC to operate legally.

The country supports safe innovation. It encourages startups but keeps strict rules to protect users and fight scams.

The market is already mature. Over 1 in 5 Australians already own crypto. That shows the market is active and ready for more exchanges to grow.

Big cities like Sydney and Melbourne are leading in crypto adoption. These cities are also common meeting spots for industry leaders.

Key Points You Should Know:

• AUSTRAC gives licenses to crypto businesses.
• Australia balances safety and innovation in crypto.
• Blockchain is used in many industries, like supply chain and healthcare.

8. Nigeria

Nigeria is one of the top countries with a fast-growing number of crypto users. The interest keeps rising every year.

Even though the government once banned crypto, they are now working on clear and friendly rules for digital assets.

The country has a young population that loves tech and is eager to explore crypto. This creates a big chance for new exchange businesses.

Why Nigeria Stands Out:

• Huge demand for crypto trading among the youth
• The government is building better crypto rules
• One of Africa’s top markets for crypto growth

9. El Salvador

El Salvador became the first country to accept Bitcoin as legal money.
This means people can use Bitcoin just like regular dollars.

The government supports crypto businesses from other countries. They also offer tax benefits to attract crypto companies.

Even though the market is small, it is very supportive. If you want to build a crypto-first business, this place is open.

They also launched something special for investors:

• If you invest $1 million in Bitcoin or Tether, you can apply for citizenship.
• This offer is part of their new Citizenship Investment Program.

To raise more money for the country, the government also started Bitcoin Bonds. The goal is to collect funds for national growth and development.

10. Germany 

Germany is one of the first countries in Europe to give crypto a clear legal status. It is seen as private money, which helps crypto businesses grow with fewer risks.

To run a crypto exchange, a license from BaFin is required. BaFin is Germany’s main financial regulator and follows strict rules, creating a safe space for serious businesses.

Germany also has strong laws to protect investors, which builds trust and supports long-term business growth.

Cities like Berlin and Frankfurt are popular crypto hubs. Many startups, events, and blockchain companies are based here.

Key points to know:

• BaFin issues crypto licenses with clear rules.
• If an investor holds crypto for over one year, there is no capital gains tax.
• Large banks in Germany are slowly adding crypto services.
• Germany is ranked among the most crypto-friendly countries in Europe.

Just like in Switzerland and Singapore, long-term investors in Germany enjoy tax benefits. If crypto is held for more than a year, it’s tax-free for individuals.

But keep in mind:

• Short-term capital gains tax can be between 0% to 45%.
• Businesses must also pay a 15% income tax.

Other Countries You Can Consider for Starting a Crypto Exchange

Here are some more countries that are becoming popular for crypto exchange businesses:

• Panama
• Kazakhstan
• United Kingdom
• Japan
• Mongolia
• Portugal
• Cyprus
• Brazil

How to Know If a Country Is Crypto-Friendly

Planning to start your crypto exchange? Choose the best country first.

Some places support crypto, others make it hard. A crypto-friendly country helps you grow fast, stay legal, and avoid problems. Here are 6 signs to check before you launch your exchange.

1. Clear Crypto Laws – The country has straightforward rules for crypto, so you can avoid unexpected bans or restrictions.
2. Low or No Crypto Tax – Crypto earnings are lightly taxed or not taxed at all, allowing you to keep more profits.
3. Easy Business Setup – You can start your crypto company with minimal paperwork and fast registration.
4. Friendly Government Policies – Government leaders support crypto businesses, and there may be special visas or programs available.
5. Strong Internet & Tech Infrastructure – Fast internet and a skilled workforce make running your exchange seamless.
6. Banking Support for Crypto – Local banks support crypto transactions and won't freeze your accounts.

Having an exchange in a crypto-friendly country reduces risks and helps your business succeed.

Conclusion 

And that's it! I've shared a list of 10 countries, plus another 10, to help you find the best place for your crypto business. Choosing a crypto-friendly country is easier when you know what to look for. Look for countries with friendly laws, low taxes, and government support. A strong internet and banking system also make things run smoothly.

Each country has its own strengths, so when you’re starting a business, make sure to choose the right one. Take some time to think it through and consult with experts to make the best decision. This blog can serve as a helpful guide, but make sure to get advice before making any choices.

Once you've decided, you may need a global cryptocurrency exchange development company. That's where we, Hashcodex, come in!

Choosing the country is step two. But step one? Knowing why you should start an exchange in the first place.