Japan

Crypto / Digital Assets

Mitsui to Launch Japan’s First Aircraft and Vessel Digital Securities

By Nithya Subramanian | 15/01/2026

Japanese trading giant Mitsui & Co plans to fractionalise capital-intensive transport assets via blockchain, offering retail investors access to lease-backed returns from 2026.

Market Infrastructure

Trump-era Policies Create Fresh Opportunities for Japan’s Megabanks

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 13/01/2026

As Japanese firms scale up in the US, the three megabanks are likewise moving to deepen client-led expansion.

AML / KYC

Japan FSA Seeks Operator for Fraud Data Sharing System

By Mark Johnston | 13/01/2026

Japan's FSA opens applications for a subsidised project to build a shared infrastructure for freezing fraudulent bank accounts amid a record surge in financial scams.

Fintech / Regtech

Japan FSA Proposes Measures to Expand Use of Prepaid Instruments

By Manesh Samtani | 12/01/2026

The FSA is consulting on proposals to expand the use of prepaid instruments for donations and for certain payments to local governments.

ESG / Sustainability

Japan Finalises Roadmap for Mandatory Sustainability Disclosures

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/01/2026

New report details a timeline for mandatory reporting for Prime Market firms starting in 2027 and laid out a new regulatory regime for assurance providers.

Sanctions

China Restricts Dual-Use Exports to Japan for Military-Related Uses

By Mark Johnston | 08/01/2026

Beijing has banned the export of dual-use items to Japanese military users or for any purpose that enhances military strength.

Japan Seeks Powers to Unwind Foreign Deals Deemed Security Risks

By Nithya Subramanian | 08/01/2026

Proposed amendments to Japan’s foreign investment screening regime would allow regulators to order divestments after transactions close.

Securities / Derivatives

Japan's Securities Industry to Form Joint Venture for Back-Office Operations

By Mark Johnston | 07/01/2026

The new company, backed by the JSDA and major brokerages, aims to cut costs and ease the administrative burden for smaller firms.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Japan Minister Signals Support for Integrating Crypto into Mainstream Finance

By Mark Johnston | 06/01/2026

Satsuki Katayama pledges government support for integrating digital assets into traditional market infrastructure and cutting taxes to drive the “first year of digitalisation".