Japan

Fintech / Regtech

Japan Finalises Stricter AML/CFT Guidelines for Financial Firms

By Manesh Samtani | 03/04/2026

Revised rules clarify requirements for risk assessments, technology adoption, and the management of outsourced functions, and will apply immediately.

AML / KYC

Japan Proposes Mandatory Information Sharing for Banks to Combat Fraud

By Mark Johnston | 31/03/2026

The FSA has released draft amendments requiring deposit-taking institutions to share data on fraudulent accounts through a centralised platform.

Fintech / Regtech

Latest Global Financial Hub Ranking Highlights Importance of Regulatory Certainty

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 31/03/2026

The latest index reveals a tight race at the top, with Asian centres gaining ground and a clear global demand for predictable regulation.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Japan FSA Warns KuCoin Amid Broader Crypto Oversight Push

By Mark Johnston | 30/03/2026

The regulator has flagged several offshore platforms for unregistered services ahead of planned legislative changes to strengthen its enforcement powers.

Securities / Derivatives

Osaka Exchange Proposes Daily Maturities for Nikkei 225 Mini Options

By Mark Johnston | 30/03/2026

The exchange has launched a public consultation on plans to introduce new weekly contracts, scheduled for implementation in April 2027.

Securities / Derivatives

Japan FSA Targets Deficiencies in Sustainability, Governance Disclosures

By Manesh Samtani | 30/03/2026

FSA annual review identifies persistent and new shortcomings in corporate reporting, focusing on substance over form in key areas.

Capital / Liquidity

Japan Directs Banks to Provide Flexible Financing Amid Mideast Tensions

By Manesh Samtani | 30/03/2026

The request follows a high-level meeting between government ministers and financial industry leaders to address potential financing disruptions for businesses.

Sanctions

Japanese Financial Firms Urged to Cut Ties Benefiting Myanmar Junta

By Mark Johnston | 26/03/2026

Rights groups allege that joint ventures involving Daiwa Institute of Research and JPX are facilitating fundraising for sanctioned entities.

ESG / Sustainability

Japanese FIs Could Be Underpricing Climate Risk as Litigation Heats Up

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 26/03/2026

Structural barriers in Japan’s courts shield banks from immediate legal exposure, but pressures are building.