Japan Signals Major Push Toward Digital Finance in 2026

Japan has begun 2026 with a strong policy signal toward digital finance. Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama spoke at the Tokyo Stock Exchange during her New Year’s address. 

She showed strong support for bringing digital assets into Japan’s traditional financial system. She said the year ahead will be important for financial innovation.

Japan Looks to Exchanges to Lead Digital Asset Adoption

Katayama stressed that stock and commodity exchanges play a central role in expanding public access to digital and blockchain-based assets. 

She explained that these institutions can act as trusted bridges between traditional markets and new digital products. This would help investors take part safely and efficiently.

The finance minister pointed to developments in the United States to support her vision. She highlighted the growth of crypto-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which many investors use to manage risk and hedge against inflation. 

Her remarks suggest that Japan may take a similar path in the future. For now, Japan does not have any locally listed crypto exchange-traded funds.

However, Katayama’s comments show growing interest among policymakers. This interest could help create conditions for such products to enter the Japanese market.

2026 Set as Japan’s Digital Turning Point

During her speech, Katayama officially described 2026 as the digital year and pledged full government support for stock and commodity exchanges. 

Her goal is to help these crypto exchanges build innovative trading environments that use advanced technology and meet global standards.

This commitment shows a wider effort to modernize Japan’s financial system. It also aims to keep Japan competitive as digital finance grows around the world.

Beyond digital assets, Katayama said this year marks a turning point for Japan’s economy. She linked financial innovation to efforts to solve long-standing problems like deflation. 

She explained that fiscal policy and focused investment in key growth areas will help revive the economy. The move toward digital finance is part of a wider strategy. 

New technologies are expected to bring in more investment, make systems work better, and support steady growth over time.

Japan Moves Forward With Crypto-Friendly Financial Reforms

Japan has already taken steps to change its financial system. In October, the Financial Services Agency (FSA) discussed letting banks trade and hold crypto assets like traditional securities.

The agency also approved Japan’s first yen-pegged stablecoin, JPYC, during the same period. In November, regulators approved plans to treat 105 major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, as financial products under existing laws. 

This change could make it easier to use these assets in the traditional financial system. Authorities are also considering a major tax change for cryptocurrencies. 

The proposal would cut the top tax rate from 55% to 20%, which could make investing in digital assets more appealing to both individuals and institutions.