Laser Digital obtains Japan's first cryptocurrency license in four years

Japan's financial regulatory agency has approved Laser Digital Japan to register as a cryptocurrency asset trading service provider, becoming the first new entrant to obtain this license in Japan in nearly four years, marking the acceleration of institutional-level digital asset services entering the Japanese market. Laser Digital stated that initially, it will provide liquidity services for local virtual asset service providers in Japan, with plans to further launch digital asset trading services aimed at institutional investors in the future, although the specific launch time and scope of services have not yet been announced.

Laser Digital is supported by one of Japan's largest investment banks, Nomura Holdings. Co-founder and CEO Jez Mohideen stated that the Japanese digital asset market is entering a new stage of development, and as institutional investor interest increases, the market needs more reliable trading counterparts and infrastructure. Previously, a survey of institutional investors conducted by Nomura and Laser Digital showed that 79% of respondents plan to invest in cryptocurrency assets within the next three years. This regulatory approval comes at a time when Japan is advancing cryptocurrency asset regulatory reforms. Japan has previously reclassified cryptocurrencies as financial assets, establishing a legal basis for the future launch of cryptocurrency asset ETFs and the implementation of an independent tax system, with related new regulations expected to take effect in 2027. Laser Digital's Executive Chairman Steve Ashley stated that global institutional investors are increasingly focusing on the digital asset market and seeking professional infrastructure that meets institutional needs.