Japan’s Financial Services Agency this year confirmed bitcoin and several cryptocurrencies can be used as legally accepted means of payment in the country. Several Reuters’ stories described bitcoin’s and other cryptocurrencies’ status in Japan as “legal tender”, which is incorrect.
The erroneous reference was made in the following stories: Nov. 27: ANALYSIS-Bubble or breakthrough? Bitcoin keeps central bankers on edge Nov. 22: Digital currencies will not replace physical money soon - BOJ official Sept. 29: UPDATE 2-Japan’s FSA gives official endorsement to 11 cryptocurrency exchanges Sept. 29: Japan’s FSA approves 11 companies as operators of crypto-currency exchanges July 11: UPDATE 3-Chief of bitcoin exchange Mt. Gox denies embezzlement as trial opens July 11: Chief of bitcoin exchange Mt. Gox pleads not guilty to embezzlement -Nikkei June 2: Fretting over savings, Mrs Watanabe turns to bitcoin May 26: Japan, South Korea drive global bitcoin prices as retail investor pile in