Nomura-Backed Firm Wins Key Approval to Offer Crypto Services in Japan

Laser Digital Japan, the Japanese arm of Nomura's digital assets subsidiary, has secured key approval from regulators to offer crypto services in the country. This move marks a significant milestone for the firm as it prepares to begin building its institutional crypto business in Japan.

The registration with Japanese regulators allows Laser Digital Japan to focus on providing liquidity for domestic virtual asset service providers, with plans to eventually offer digital asset trading opportunities to institutional investors. The company has not yet disclosed when those services will launch or exactly which products will be available.

Japan's institutions are becoming increasingly receptive to crypto as an investment asset class, according to a 2026 Institutional Investor Survey by Nomura and Laser Digital. The survey found that 65% of respondents consider crypto assets a diversification tool, while nearly 79% said they plan to invest in the asset class over the next three years.

Laser Digital Japan has emphasized its commitment to meeting regulatory requirements and investor protection standards. The company will maintain compliance, risk management, and governance standards consistent with global practices.