Japan’s FSA Considers Allowing Banks to Invest in Cryptocurrency

Japan’s Financial Services Agency is evaluating regulatory reforms to permit banks’ direct investments in digital assets, signaling a policy shift involving major banks, notably Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group.

This potential change could increase institutional engagement with cryptocurrencies, impacting market liquidity and enabling Japanese banks to operate crypto exchanges, altering the nation’s financial landscape.

Japan’s Financial Services Agency is exploring reforms enabling banks to invest directly in digital assets. This move signifies a potential shift in the country’s management of crypto assets.

The main players in this initiative include Japan’s Financial Services Agency and major banks like Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho. These reforms will be discussed within the advisory body to the Prime Minister.

Institutional Crypto Engagement Set to Surge

Allowing banks to invest in digital assets could significantly increase institutional engagement with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. The financial landscape could transform with increased institutional activity.

Potential outcomes include increased risk and capital management requirements for banks and a shift in registered crypto accounts. Historical trends show a 3.5 times increase in crypto accounts over five years.

Japanese Banks on the Brink of Crypto Involvement

Historically, Japanese banks were restricted from holding crypto assets. The Financial Instruments and Exchange Act had previously allowed some trade, but direct bank involvement marks a first.

Experts suggest that if Japanese banks follow trends seen in Swiss banks and the U.S., there could be substantial inflows into major cryptocurrencies. This shift aligns with a global move towards institutional crypto adoption.

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