Japan

    ESG / Sustainability

    Japanese Firms Weigh Return to NZAM With Less Demanding Climate Goals

    By Mark Johnston | 16/01/2026

    The Net Zero Asset Managers initiatives will restart with relaxed requirements to navigate US legal risks and political pressure.

    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".

    JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

    An exclusive weekly selection of top stories from the Regulation Asia editorial team.