This SBI Blockchain Bet Could Turn Japanese Stocks Into Tokens by 2026

TLDR:

• SBI aims to tokenize Japanese stocks using blockchain by 2026, cutting trading costs and settlement times to seconds.
• The new venture with Startail Group will create a blockchain platform for stocks, bonds, and ETFs.
• Tokenized stocks are expected to track real prices and yields, reducing volatility linked with crypto assets.
• SBI plans to announce the platform roadmap at the WebX crypto event, according to TV Tokyo reports.

Japan’s SBI Holdings is moving toward blockchain-based stock tokenization, a step that could reshape trading for millions of investors.

The financial group wants to create a platform that links stock ownership directly to digital tokens. If realized, it could slash costs, speed up cross-border trading, and bypass brokerage hurdles. The initiative comes as other global players explore blockchain for equities, fueling momentum around tokenized assets.

Sources told TV Tokyo that a launch may happen as early as 2026, with testing already in discussion stages.

SBI Blockchain Plan for Stock Tokenization

SBI Holdings is preparing to establish a joint venture with Singapore-based Startail Group, according to a TV Tokyo interview. 

The collaboration aims to build a blockchain-powered system that digitizes stocks, bonds, and ETFs under one financial infrastructure. This structure would replace traditional intermediaries, bringing faster and cheaper settlement to the market.

Executives see this as a way to make Japanese equities easier to access for overseas investors.The concept involves issuing stocks as tokens.

Unlike cryptocurrencies that fluctuate sharply, tokenized equities are tied to real stock prices and yields. That link is expected to stabilize value while allowing digital-style trading efficiency. Transactions could be completed within seconds, with costs close to zero.

SBI’s customer reach is another driver. The company has over 50 million clients across its banking and securities divisions. Leadership believes this base could accelerate adoption once tokenized assets are introduced. The plan, if launched, could place Japan among countries experimenting with blockchain-powered equity markets.

Global Context and Market Reaction

Stock tokenization is not new internationally. Robinhood and Kraken announced in June they would roll out tokenized U.S. equities on blockchain platforms.

Regulators in the United States have begun drafting standards to separate securities from other crypto assets. That push, backed by the SEC chairman under President Trump, signals broader acceptance of the approach.

Japan has seen progress on digital finance too. Earlier this month, authorities approved the country’s first fiat-linked stablecoin. However, conversations about tokenized equities remain at an early stage compared with the U.S. market.SBI’s initiative may bring these discussions forward, especially with major institutions leading the effort.

SBI Chairman Yoshitaka Kitao is expected to share the company’s next steps at the WebX crypto event starting August 22. He has reportedly described the project as a chance to create new global trading infrastructure. 

The timeline points toward a release window of late 2026 or 2027. If successful, Japan could see stocks, bonds, and ETFs available as blockchain tokens within just a few years.

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