Nomura-backed Laser Digital wins key approval to offer crypto services in Japan

Laser Digital Japan, the Japanese arm of Nomura’s digital assets subsidiary, has completed its registration with Japanese regulators as a Crypto Asset Exchange Service Provider, which allows the firm to begin building its institutional crypto business in the country, according to a Friday announcement. Laser Digital Japan will focus on providing liquidity for domestic virtual asset service providers, with plans to eventually offer digital asset trading opportunities to institutional investors. The firm has not yet disclosed when those services will launch or exactly which products will be available. The regulatory approval comes as Japanese institutions become increasingly receptive to crypto as an investment asset class. According to the 2026 Institutional Investor Survey by Nomura and Laser Digital, 65% of respondents consider crypto assets a diversification tool, while nearly 79% said they plan to invest in the asset class over the next three years. Steve Ashley, co-founder and executive chairman of Laser Digital, said the approval underscores the company’s readiness to meet Japan’s regulatory standards as sophisticated investors seek greater access to digital assets and institu...