Japan’s financial industry is entering a new phase as Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, and Mizuho Financial Group unite to introduce a stablecoin pegged to the Japanese Yen. According to a Friday report from Nikkei, the collaboration aims to improve value transfer between corporate clients while modernizing the country’s payment systems.
Besides enhancing domestic settlements, the joint venture is exploring the possibility of a U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin to strengthen cross-border payment efficiency. The three banks plan to operate the Yen-based token on a shared infrastructure that enables smooth interoperability between financial institutions, though the exact blockchain has not yet been disclosed.
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Nikkei reported that the upcoming stablecoin is likely to run on MUFG’s Progmat platform, developed in 2023 to digitize real-world assets and improve financial connectivity. This step highlights a broader effort among Japan’s largest banks to integrate blockchain technology while maintaining transparency and compliance.
Japan’s financial regulator, the Financial Services Agency (FSA), has already provided clarity through its 2023 framework allowing only licensed banks, trust companies, and registered money transfer firms to issue fiat-backed stablecoins. With combined assets exceeding $6 trillion, MUFG, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho are well-positioned to lead Japan’s transition toward digital currency issuance under these rules.
Additionally, the move reflects rising global demand for stablecoins beyond the dominance of the U.S. dollar. The $300 billion stablecoin market, led by Tether’s USDT and Circle’s USDC, has prompted countries to develop local-currency alternatives. Through this new venture, customers of Japan’s top banks are expected to enjoy near-instant, 24-hour payment access using digital Yen.
Financial analysts suggest the launch could strengthen Japan’s monetary influence while enhancing the demand for Bank of Japan treasuries. Furthermore, the potential addition of a U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin may streamline cross-border transactions for multinational businesses operating in Japan.
The growing institutional interest in stablecoins, highlighted by recent comments from major global investment leaders, points to rapid market expansion in the near term. Japan’s coordinated approach positions it to become a central hub for compliant, large-scale stablecoin adoption in Asia.
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