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Major Japanese Securities Firms Plan Crypto Trading Expansion

Major Japanese Securities Firms Plan Crypto Trading Expansion

Nomura Holdings, Daiwa Securities, and SMBC Nikko Securities aim to enter cryptocurrency trading, leveraging Tokyo’s anticipated ETF rule easing to boost institutional access to digital assets.

Fact Check
Multiple high-authority, highly relevant primary and secondary sources consistently report that major Japanese securities firms—including Nomura Holdings, Daiwa Securities Group, and SMBC Nikko Securities—are actively planning expansions into cryptocurrency trading and exchange operations. Corporate announcements confirm the creation of dedicated departments for crypto asset business development, such as SMBC Nikko's DeFi Technology Department, demonstrating direct commitment to the sector. Independent financial news outlets corroborate these expansions and provide details on timelines (e.g., targeting 2025), specific initiatives, and strategic pivots towards digital assets. There is clear alignment between corporate official statements and media reports, with no credible contradictory evidence presented. The convergence of authoritative corporate communications and reputable news agency reporting strongly supports the truthfulness of the statement.
Summary

Three Japanese securities firms — Nomura Holdings, Daiwa Securities, and SMBC Nikko Securities — with a combined market capitalization of $48 billion are preparing to enter cryptocurrency trading. Nomura’s Switzerland-based subsidiary Laser Digital will spearhead the initiative, while Daiwa and SMBC Nikko position themselves for market entry ahead of Tokyo’s expected relaxation of ETF regulations. The regulatory shift is anticipated to enhance institutional participation and broaden digital asset investment choices in Japan.

Terms & Concepts
  • ETF (exchange-traded fund): A fund traded on stock exchanges that holds assets like stocks or commodities, allowing investors to buy shares representing its holdings.
  • Crypto Trading: The buying and selling of cryptocurrencies through exchanges or trading platforms for profit, investment, or hedging purposes.
  • Swiss Subsidiary: A branch or company located in Switzerland and owned by a parent company, often used for international operations.