In a notable development within the global digital asset landscape, Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, has been crowned the world’s premier crypto-friendly city in Multipolitan’s 2025 Crypto Cities Index.
The city unexpectedly surpassed established financial powerhouses often seen as leaders in digital finance, showcasing a unique blend of strengths.
Ljubljana’s top position is attributed to its robust crypto infrastructure, progressive regulatory stances, and significant real-world digital asset integration. This powerful combination enabled it to leapfrog contenders such as Hong Kong, Zurich, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. The comprehensive analysis weighed elements like tax frameworks, licensing procedures, internet quality, capital gains taxes, and the density of crypto ATMs.
A crucial factor setting Ljubljana apart is its vibrant cryptocurrency culture. Boasting over 150 crypto ATMs and a high concentration of retail locations accepting digital payments, the city exhibits an unusually high level of practical adoption relative to its size. This tangible use contrasts with centers where digital assets are often limited to investment platforms or specialized financial services.
Furthermore, Ljubljana leverages a supportive local blockchain ecosystem. It hosts the Blockchain Alliance Europe and pioneering platforms like Blocksquare, which recently unveiled plans to tokenize $1 billion worth of U.S. real estate in partnership with Vera Capital.
Hong Kong claimed the second position, bolstered by its regulatory clarity and an expanding framework for licensing virtual asset service providers. Despite notable compliance costs, the city continues to draw crypto expertise and host significant industry gatherings. Zurich tied with Hong Kong, lauded for its smart city advancements and economic stability, performing strongly in infrastructure and wealth indicators.
Singapore and Abu Dhabi completed the top five, both benefiting from favorable tax environments and strategic initiatives aimed at attracting crypto and blockchain enterprises.
The study also featured a Crypto Wealth Concentration Index, where Slovenia again led the rankings. The average Slovenian crypto holder reportedly owns digital assets valued at around $240,500, substantially exceeding figures in Cyprus ($175,000) and Hong Kong ($97,500). U.S. residents, by contrast, averaged slightly above $23,000.
[Crypto Wealth Concentration Index | Source: Multipolitan]
Concurrently, Slovenia is considering the introduction of a 25% tax on personal crypto gains effective 2026. This proposed levy would target profits realized from converting crypto into traditional currency or using it for goods and services, while crypto-to-crypto transactions would stay untaxed. Authorities anticipate generating up to €25 million annually, though concerns exist that the tax might hinder innovation or prompt talent migration, reflecting ongoing global debates surrounding effective crypto taxation models. This local policy discussion unfolds as wider European crypto regulation frameworks take shape.