Laser Digital Secures Japan’s First Crypto Exchange License in Four Years

Laser Digital, the digital‑asset subsidiary of Japan’s Nomura Group, received registration from the Financial Services Agency (FSA) to provide crypto‑asset exchange services under the Payment Services Act. The approval is the first crypto‑exchange license granted in Japan since Binance Japan was authorized in October 2022.

Regulatory Context

In July, Japan’s parliament passed amendments to the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) that reclassify crypto assets as financial assets. The changes shift regulatory oversight from the Payment Services Act to the FIEA, introduce insider‑trading rules and strengthen supervision of crypto businesses. The new provisions will take effect on a date set by cabinet order within one year of the July 23 promulgation.

Market Implications

Laser Digital’s CEO Jez Mohideen said the licensing reflects a “new phase of maturity” in Japan’s crypto market, with growing demand from institutional investors for trusted counterparties and infrastructure. The company plans to use the registration to provide domestic liquidity before expanding into institutional crypto trading.

Government Stance

Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama has indicated a policy goal of aligning crypto regulation with traditional finance, aiming to ensure that citizens benefit from digital and blockchain‑based assets.