The Japanese fintech landscape is undergoing a transformative shift as a wave of publicly traded companies announces plans to enter the cryptocurrency exchange sector. From financial tech innovators to entertainment giants and healthcare providers, firms across diverse industries are signaling strong interest in blockchain and digital assets. This strategic pivot reflects growing confidence in the regulatory clarity provided by Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) and the long-term potential of cryptocurrencies as both investment vehicles and payment solutions.
With 16 fully licensed crypto exchanges already operating in Japan and over 100 additional companies reportedly exploring entry—including major players like SBI Group, Line, and Yahoo Japan—the market is poised for significant expansion. Among the latest entrants are Money Forward, Drecom, Yamane Healthcare, Adways, Avex, and Daiwa Securities Group—each bringing unique strengths and visions to the evolving digital economy.
Money Forward: From Budgeting App to Blockchain Pioneer
Money Forward (TYO: 3994), best known for its popular personal finance management app used by over 5.5 million users, has taken decisive steps into the blockchain space. The company announced the establishment of a wholly owned subsidiary, Money Forward Financial (MF Financial), which will focus on blockchain media initiatives launching in summer 2018, with plans to operate a virtual currency exchange by year-end.
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Originally recognized for its award-winning money-tracking app—named Google Play’s Best Finance App for three consecutive years from 2013—Money Forward is now expanding its fintech ecosystem. In addition to launching its own exchange, the company has partnered with leading Japanese platforms including Bitflyer, Coincheck, and Zaif, while preparing collaborations with Btcbox, Bitbank, Quoine, and Fisco to offer comprehensive settlement solutions for traders.
This dual strategy—building internal infrastructure while integrating with existing exchanges—positions Money Forward at the forefront of Japan’s regulated crypto movement.
Gaming & Entertainment Giants Enter the Crypto Arena
Drecom: Bridging Mobile Gaming and Digital Currencies
Drecom (TYO: 3793), a prominent developer of mobile and PC entertainment content, revealed plans to amend its corporate charter to include cryptocurrency-related operations. The proposed changes, set for shareholder approval at the next annual meeting, explicitly add “planning, operation, and management of virtual currency exchanges” as a core business activity.
Additionally, Drecom intends to roll out digital currency settlement services, potentially enabling in-game purchases and cross-border payments via blockchain technology—an evolution that could redefine user engagement in Japan’s $13 billion gaming industry.
Avex: Where Music Meets Blockchain
Avex (TYO: 7860), one of Japan’s largest music and entertainment conglomerates—home to artists like Ayumi Hamasaki and Pikotaro—has also filed amendments to enter the crypto exchange business. Known for its influence in J-pop, anime, gaming, and live events, Avex’s move suggests a broader vision: leveraging blockchain for royalty tracking, fan tokens, and secure digital content distribution.
By integrating cryptocurrency exchanges into its ecosystem, Avex may pioneer new monetization models for creators and deepen fan interactions through tokenized experiences.
Healthcare and Advertising Firms Embrace Digital Transformation
Yamane Healthcare: Expanding Care Through Technology
Yamane Healthcare (TYO: 2144), primarily engaged in elderly care services through facilities like Nagoya Residence, is also diversifying into blockchain. The company plans to revise its business scope to include virtual currency exchange operations, along with system development and consulting services related to digital currencies.
While seemingly unrelated at first glance, this move underscores a growing trend: traditional service-based industries adopting fintech to improve operational efficiency, enable secure data transfers, and explore innovative funding mechanisms for social infrastructure.
Adways: Powering Mobile Marketing with Crypto Integration
Adways (TYO: 2489), a Tokyo-based global mobile marketing firm offering ad networks and tracking tools, has similarly updated its corporate charter. It now includes provisions to conduct virtual currency exchange business under Japan’s Payment Services Act, which came into effect in April 2017.
This law recognizes cryptocurrencies as legal payment methods and mandates registration with the FSA—a critical framework that has given companies the confidence to enter the space responsibly. Adways’ pivot could lead to blockchain-powered advertising ecosystems, where transparent transaction records enhance trust between advertisers and publishers.
Daiwa Securities: Traditional Finance Weighs In on Crypto
Even established financial institutions are acknowledging crypto’s momentum. Seiji Nakada, President and CEO of Daiwa Securities Group (TYO: 8601), stated this week that digital currencies could become “a highly practical platform” if proper legal safeguards exist. While noting concerns about price volatility and speculative trading, Nakada emphasized that large corporations may need to step in to stabilize and mature the market.
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This sentiment echoes a broader shift: legacy finance embracing digital assets not just as speculative tools but as foundational components of next-generation financial infrastructure.
Japan’s Regulatory Framework: A Catalyst for Innovation
Japan’s proactive regulation has been instrumental in fostering this surge of corporate interest. With 16 licensed exchanges currently operating and eight more awaiting FSA approval, the country offers one of the most structured environments for crypto businesses globally. The Payment Services Act ensures consumer protection while encouraging innovation—a balance many nations are striving to achieve.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why are so many Japanese companies entering the cryptocurrency exchange space?
A: Japan’s clear regulatory framework under the Payment Services Act has created a safe environment for businesses to innovate. Combined with growing public interest in digital assets, this has encouraged diverse industries—from healthcare to entertainment—to explore crypto opportunities.
Q: Are these new exchanges already operational?
A: Most are still in planning or application stages. For example, Money Forward aims to launch its exchange by the end of 2018, while others await shareholder approval or FSA licensing.
Q: How does Japan regulate cryptocurrency exchanges?
A: The Financial Services Agency (FSA) requires all exchanges to register under the Payment Services Act. This includes strict rules on security, anti-money laundering (AML), and customer fund protection.
Q: Can foreign investors use Japanese crypto exchanges?
A: Some platforms accept international users, though access varies by exchange and compliance requirements. Fully licensed exchanges typically enforce KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures.
Q: What risks do these companies face entering the crypto market?
A: Key challenges include price volatility, cybersecurity threats, evolving regulations, and public perception. However, strong governance and technical expertise can mitigate these risks.
Q: Will entertainment companies like Avex create their own cryptocurrencies?
A: While not confirmed, it's possible. Many media firms are exploring fan tokens or NFTs for exclusive content access—blockchain integration could be a natural extension of such initiatives.