Nomura-backed Laser Digital secures Japan’s first crypto asset license in four years.

Japan’s financial regulator has approved Laser Digital Japan’s registration as a crypto asset transaction service provider, making it the first new entrant to obtain such a license in Japan in nearly four years, marking the accelerated entry of institutional-grade digital asset services into the Japanese market. Laser Digital stated that it will initially provide liquidity services for local virtual asset service providers in Japan, with plans to further launch digital asset trading services for institutional investors in the future; specific launch timelines and business scopes have not yet been announced. Laser Digital is backed by Nomura Holdings, one of Japan’s largest investment banks. Jez Mohideen, co-founder and CEO of the company, noted that Japan’s digital asset market is entering a new stage of development, and with rising interest from institutional investors, the market needs more reliable counterparties and infrastructure. A prior institutional investor survey released by Nomura and Laser Digital showed that 79% of respondents plan to invest in crypto assets within the next three years. This regulatory approval comes as Japan advances crypto asset regulatory reforms. Japan has previously reclassified cryptocurrencies as financial assets, laying a legal foundation for the future launch of crypto asset ETFs and the implementation of a separate tax system, with the new rules expected to take effect in 2027. Steve Ashley, executive chairman of Laser Digital, said global institutional investors are increasingly focusing on the digital asset market and seeking professional infrastructure tailored to institutional needs.