Nomura-Backed Laser Digital Secures Japan's First New Crypto Exchange Registration in Four Years

Nomura-backed Laser Digital has secured Japan's first new crypto exchange registration in four years, giving the firm approval to operate under the country's Payment Services Act.

The registration, completed on August 21, covers Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, and Shiba Inu. Laser Digital will initially provide liquidity to licensed domestic virtual-asset service providers, rather than launching as a retail exchange immediately.

This move marks a significant development in Japan's crypto market, which has been waiting for new exchange registrations since 2019. The Japanese government is rewriting rules for crypto investment, trading, and taxation, creating a more favorable environment for institutional investors.