Sony Bank Partners with Bastion for Major Web3 Expansion
Sony is making a significant move into digital finance with plans to launch a US dollar stablecoin by 2026. The initiative represents more than just another payment method. Instead, Sony is building a comprehensive Web3 network that connects its entertainment empire with blockchain technology.
The project centers on Sony Bank’s expansion into the US market. According to a Nikkei report, the stablecoin will serve as a payment tool across Sony’s gaming, anime, and digital content platforms. This strategic approach treats blockchain payments as a core feature rather than a background function.
- Sony Bank partnered with Bastion and participated in its $14.6 million funding round
- Sony created BlockBloom, a dedicated Web3 unit to expand digital asset services
- Sony Financial Group’s recent spin-off provides Sony Bank with greater strategic independence
Stablecoin Targets Sony’s Entertainment Ecosystem
Sony Bank is preparing to launch the dollar-pegged stablecoin through a specialized US division. The token will support purchases across PlayStation games, subscription services, and anime content. This payment option will complement existing methods like credit cards.
The strategy specifically targets US customers, who represent approximately 30% of Sony Group’s external sales. By implementing blockchain-based payments, Sony aims to reduce transaction fees and improve payment speed. The company also expects to decrease reliance on traditional card networks.
Sony Bank applied for a US banking license in October to support this expansion. Additionally, the bank has formed a partnership with Bastion, a US-based stablecoin issuer. Sony’s venture arm joined Bastion’s $14.6 million fundraising round, which Coinbase Ventures led.
BlockBloom Builds Web3 Infrastructure
Sony Bank’s stablecoin initiative builds on a broader Web3 strategy launched earlier this year. The bank established BlockBloom, its Web3 subsidiary, in June after announcing plans in May. The unit focuses on digital assets built on blockchain technology.
BlockBloom aims to create an ecosystem linking digital and physical experiences through NFTs and various currencies. The subsidiary’s work directly supports the stablecoin project, which will serve as a primary payment tool within this ecosystem. These tools enable seamless movement of digital assets across platforms used by fans, artists, and creators.
Strategic Restructuring Enables Digital Innovation
Sony Bank is pursuing this Web3 strategy following a major corporate restructuring. Sony Financial Group separated from Sony Group and began trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in September. This spin-off was designed to separate financial operations from the broader conglomerate.
The independence now allows Sony Bank greater flexibility to pursue long-term digital finance projects. The timing suggests Sony Bank is leveraging this separation to accelerate expansion into new markets. With US-focused stablecoin plans and Bastion’s support, the bank positions itself as a competitive player in entertainment-linked digital payments.
Sony’s stablecoin strategy specifically targets its substantial US user base. By focusing on this market, Sony aligns its payment network with regions already embracing blockchain and digital assets. The stablecoin will interact with multiple Sony services, creating seamless fund transfers between gaming, subscriptions, and digital platforms.
This approach allows Sony to test Web3 payments at scale, supported by its gaming division and entertainment content. With the 2026 launch target, Sony is building foundational layers for a cross-platform structure that integrates Web3 payments with its entertainment network.
