Nomura Expands Digital Asset Services in Japan
Nomura Holdings, the financial arm of Japan’s largest investment bank, plans to grow in the digital asset sector. This expansion will happen through its subsidiary, Laser Digital. The move follows a rise in cryptocurrency trading in Japan. Increased investor interest and regulatory changes are driving this growth.
Jez Mohideen, CEO of Laser Digital, told Bloomberg that the company is seeking a license to offer crypto trading to institutional clients in Japan. Laser Digital’s Swiss unit is currently in talks with Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) before starting formal consultations.
If approved, Laser Digital will provide broker-dealer services to traditional financial firms and crypto companies. These services include exchanges for digital assets.
Mohideen said, “Our entry into Japan reflects our optimism in the Japanese digital-asset ecosystem.” Laser Digital launched in 2022 and offers asset management and venture capital investing. In 2023, it received a full crypto license in Dubai and opened a Japanese branch.
Growing Crypto Adoption in Japan
Cryptocurrency adoption is rising in Japan. In August, Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato spoke at the WebX2025 forum in Tokyo. He said cryptocurrencies can be part of a diversified investment portfolio despite their volatility. The Finance Ministry aims to create a crypto-friendly environment.
Metaplanet, a major Bitcoin holder in Japan, now owns 30,823 bitcoins worth about $3.7 billion. This has earned it the nickname “Japan’s Microstrategy.” According to BitcoinTreasuries, Metaplanet ranks fourth among top Bitcoin treasury companies worldwide.
Regulatory Changes in Japan
Japan is also tightening crypto regulations. In September, the FSA proposed stricter rules. It plans to move crypto oversight from the Payment Services Act to the more rigorous Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA). This change aims to enhance investor protection and market integrity.
