Financial Services Agency

Crypto / Digital Assets

Japanese Lawmakers Launch Task Force to Draft On-Chain Finance Rules

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 26/03/2026

The new LDP project team aims to create a national framework for tokenised finance, putting pressure on regulators and financial institutions.

Enforcement

Japan Court Rules on Director Liability in Suruga Bank Fraud Case

By Manesh Samtani | 24/03/2026

Court ordered former directors to pay JPY 4.76 billion in damages, while a separate mediation with victims of a loan scandal concludes without full resolution.

Crypto / Digital Assets

SBI Launches Japan's First Stablecoin Lending Service for Retail

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 20/03/2026

The service offers high yields on USDC but comes with explicit counterparty and liquidity risks.

Fintech / Regtech

Japan, UK Seek Alignment on ISSB, Basel III and Crypto Regulation

By Manesh Samtani | 20/03/2026

Regulators discussed sustainability reporting, digital assets, and reaffirmed their commitment to the full, timely, and consistent implementation of Basel III.

Capital / Liquidity

Japan Updates SME Revitalisation Rules, Emphasises Proactive Role for FIs

By Manesh Samtani | 18/03/2026

The update encourages early action on business succession and M&A, and calls on financial institutions to be more proactive in supporting distressed firms.

Enforcement

Japan to Raise Max Jail Penalty for Unlicensed Crypto Sales - Report

By Editors | 17/03/2026

Regulator plans to move crypto oversight to the securities law framework and significantly increase fines and prison sentences.

ESG / Sustainability

ICMA Report Highlights Need for APAC Convergence of ESG Ratings Rules

By Mark Johnston | 13/03/2026

New report highlights the rise of voluntary codes and binding rules for ESG ratings providers across Asia-Pacific jurisdictions.

Capital / Liquidity

Japan Banking Body to Develop Risk Guidelines for LBO Market

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 13/03/2026

The Japanese Bankers Association will release guidelines this month to address the risks of the growing leveraged buyout market.

Fintech / Regtech

Japan FSA Prioritises Real-World Use Cases to Guide Digital Asset Rule-Making

By Manesh Samtani | 12/03/2026

A senior official outlined Japan's focus on fostering real-world applications for stablecoins and tokenised assets while seeking global consensus on DeFi.