Skip to main content
Japan May Allow Banks to Hold Bitcoin for Investment Purposes
Policy • Regulation • Bitcoin

Japan Is Considering Allowing Banks to Hold Bitcoin for Investment Purposes

Published · ~4 min read
Japan considering allowing banks to hold Bitcoin illustration
Japan’s regulators move closer to approving Bitcoin holdings for banks — a major milestone for global finance.

Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) is reportedly considering new policies that would permit banks to hold Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for investment purposes. If passed, the decision could mark a turning point in Japan’s evolving approach to digital finance.

Japan’s Evolving Crypto Policy

Since becoming the first major economy to regulate Bitcoin in 2017, Japan has been cautious yet progressive about digital asset integration. While exchanges and custodians operate under strict oversight, traditional banks have so far been prohibited from holding cryptocurrencies directly.

What’s Being Discussed

Under the new framework, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin could be classified as “eligible financial assets” for banks. The FSA would define exposure limits, capital requirements, and cybersecurity standards before officially approving such investments.

Implications for the Market

Analysts believe this policy could increase institutional trust in Bitcoin and enhance liquidity in Japan’s crypto sector. It may also encourage corporate treasuries to diversify their portfolios with digital assets as hedges against inflation and currency volatility.

International Reactions

The move positions Japan alongside Switzerland and Singapore — both known for their balanced regulatory frameworks supporting institutional crypto adoption. Experts expect Japan’s decision to influence other Asian markets to revisit their banking crypto restrictions.

Remaining Challenges

  • Concerns about price volatility and systemic exposure.
  • Need for new accounting and risk management standards.
  • Cybersecurity threats and custody infrastructure improvements.

Looking Ahead

If approved, the policy could go into effect in 2026, making Japan one of the first major economies to allow banks to invest directly in Bitcoin. Regulators emphasize a balance between innovation and stability — ensuring that financial institutions can participate in the crypto market without compromising investor protection.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Create a Payza Account in Minutes: Step-by-Step Guide (Availability May Vary) Create a Payza Account in Minutes: Step-by-Step Guide Follow these quick steps to create, verify, and secure your Payza e-wallet. Note: Service availability and features can change—verify on the official site first. Signing up takes a few minutes—verification and security settings keep your wallet safer. Key takeaways Fast signup: Create an account with a valid email, then confirm and complete your profile. Verify early: Prepare ID + proof of address to unlock higher limits and withdrawals. Secure it: Enable 2FA, set strong passwords, and review notification settings. Contents Create Your Account Complete KYC Verification Harden Security (Highly R...
FTX/Alameda Wrapped Tokens on Solana Are No Longer Redeemable: What It Means for soBTC & soETH FTX/Alameda Wrapped Tokens on Solana Are No Longer Redeemable: What It Means for soBTC & soETH A quick, clear explainer on how wrapped-token redemption works, what changed after FTX/Alameda’s collapse, and practical steps to reduce risk. When backing fails, wrapped tokens can lose redemption and deviate from their peg. Key takeaways Wrapped tokens like soBTC and soETH relied on redemption backing tied to FTX/Alameda. After bankruptcy, redemption mechanisms ceased , causing price dislocations on Solana. Holders should evaluate liquidity, contract risk, and official notices before acting. Contents What Happened Wrapped ...
Huobi Group Launches New Investment & Incubation Division: What It Means for Web3 Builders Huobi Group Launches New Investment & Incubation Division: What It Means for Web3 Builders A practical overview for founders and developers—focus areas, how to pitch, and what diligence to expect. Huobi’s new initiative aims to accelerate promising Web3 startups with capital and ecosystem support. Key takeaways Founder-focused: Backing teams in DeFi, infrastructure, wallets, payments, NFTs, gaming, and security. Beyond funding: Access to Huobi’s network, GTM playbooks, and technical/security guidance. Be diligence-ready: Show traction, audits, token economics, and a clear execution plan. Contents Focus Areas & Eligibility Applicatio...