Key Takeaways
- The Bank of Italy and CONSOB now require listed companies to provide clearer financial disclosures on crypto holdings.
- Auditors must assess anti-money laundering risks related to crypto assets.
- While not illegal, cryptocurrencies face continued scrutiny in Italy over volatility and risks.
The Bank of Italy and financial regulator CONSOB have introduced new accounting standards for listed companies holding crypto assets.
Under the updated rules, auditing firms and statutory auditors must ensure clearer financial disclosures on digital assets.
Stricter Crypto Accounting Rules for Public Companies
Under the updated rules, auditing firms and statutory auditors must ensure clearer financial disclosures on digital assets.
Following IFRS IC guidance, companies must classify cryptocurrencies under IAS 38 (Intangible Assets) or IAS 2 (Inventories) if they are held for sale.
Other crypto assets require a case-by-case assessment to ensure transparency and compliance with market abuse regulations.
Auditors Face Greater Oversight Responsibilities
“Auditing firms and statutory auditors should evaluate crypto-related risks, particularly regarding anti-money laundering compliance,” the regulators said in a joint statement.
A CONSOB source told CCN:
“Auditors must assess decision-making processes, trading platforms, custody arrangements, service provider contracts, monitoring systems, and internal controls, including IT frameworks.”
Audit firms must also ensure they have the expertise and tools—such as blockchain data analysis capabilities—to maintain high-quality standards.
“Firms should enhance expertise through specialists, structured methodologies, and targeted crypto-asset accounting and auditing training,” CONSOB added.
Italy’s Tough Stance on Crypto
While cryptocurrencies are not banned in Italy, regulators have repeatedly warned investors about their risks, particularly volatility.
The government recently revised its crypto tax policies, confirming a 26% capital gains tax for 2025, rising to 33% in 2026. Parliament scrapped an earlier proposal to increase it to 42%.
A key change is the removal of the €2,000 exemption threshold, which means all crypto gains—regardless of size—are now taxable.
Additionally, taxpayers can opt for an 18% substitute tax on crypto holdings as of Jan. 1, 2025, payable by Nov. 30, 2025, in up to three installments.
Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti remains open to further revisions, including potential tax adjustments based on investment duration.
The government is also exploring investor education initiatives and additional regulatory measures.
Giuseppe Ciccomascolo began his career as an investigative journalist in Italy, where he contributed to both local and national newspapers, focusing on various financial sectors.
Upon relocating to London, he worked as an analyst for Fitch's CapitalStructure and later as a Senior Reporter for Alliance News. In 2017, Giuseppe transitioned to covering cryptocurrency-related news, producing documentaries and articles on Bitcoin and other emerging digital currencies. He also played a pivotal role in establishing the academy for a cryptocurrency exchange website. Crypto remained his primary area of interest throughout his tenure as a writer for ThirdFloor.
