News Digest: Regulatory Earthquake: Japan’s FSA Greenlights Banks for Stablecoin Issuance
November 12, 2025
The digital asset market in Japan is on the cusp of an institutional explosion after the Financial Services Agency (FSA) announced a pivotal regulatory update: major banks and trust companies will be permitted to issue and manage stablecoins. This landmark policy shift, which leverages Japan’s 2023 Stablecoin Act, is poised to seamlessly integrate the innovation of cryptocurrency with the stability and compliance of the traditional financial sector.
The FSA’s move is a strategic effort to secure Japan’s lead in the global digital currency race. By restricting stablecoin issuance to highly regulated financial institutions, the FSA ensures these digital tokens adhere to rigorous standards. Crucially, they must be fully backed by fiat currency, maintain a clear, reliable redemption mechanism, and comply with strict anti-money laundering (AML) protocols. This framework is designed to prioritize consumer protection and maintain financial stability, thereby fostering a credible, domestic stablecoin ecosystem.
This development unlocks massive potential for institutional adoption across the Japanese crypto sector. With banks now authorized to issue digital yen-pegged tokens, the door is open for advanced applications like instant corporate settlement, regulated on-chain financial products, and seamless cross-border transactions. This integration injects a new level of trust and liquidity, providing compliant fiat on- and off-ramps for exchanges and platforms. Japan’s proactive approach contrasts sharply with the hesitancy of many G7 nations, cementing its status as a global standard-setter for responsible stablecoin innovation.
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