Japan Targets Blockchain-Based Real-Time Settlements by Early 2030s

Japan is taking a significant step towards revolutionizing its financial sector by exploring blockchain-based real-time stock and bond settlements. The country's Financial Services Agency, Finance Ministry, and Bank of Japan are forming a study group with major financial institutions to replace traditional securities settlement infrastructure with more efficient systems.

The goal is to achieve operational real-time, round-the-clock stock and bond settlements by the early 2030s. Currently, when shares are bought on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, it takes two business days for the actual exchange of securities and cash to occur, known as T+2. This delay leaves room for counterparty risk and locks up capital.

The study group is not a theoretical initiative; Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group has already announced a proof-of-concept in August 2026 for on-chain Japanese Government Bond repo transactions using the Canton Network. The system enables near-instant settlements that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.