Laser Digital, under the Nomura Group, has begun preparations to apply for a license to offer cryptocurrency trading services to institutional clients in Japan. The Swiss-based company is reportedly in preliminary discussions with the Financial Services Agency (FSA). CEO Jez Mohideen emphasized their confidence in the Japanese cryptocurrency market, confirming their plans to enter the country. This move coincides with Daiwa Securities starting to facilitate yen loans collateralized by Bitcoin 
$77,464 and Ethereum 
$2,315, indicating a tighter integration between traditional finance and cryptocurrencies in Japan.
Scope of Laser Digital’s License Application
Laser Digital aims to provide brokerage and trading services in cryptocurrencies to the institutional segment with the license obtained from the FSA. The pre-consultation phase clarifies the roadmap before the standard application process in Japan. The focus is on technical requirements, customer eligibility, and custody arrangements. The company is keen on supporting institutional-scale transaction flows with established financial institutions and cryptocurrency platforms.
As the crypto arm of Nomura Group, Laser Digital has global experience operating under various regulations. The plan in Japan seeks to meet the institutional demand for cryptocurrencies in Asia. Post-license, the management plans to prioritize institutional trading and risk management products, gradually expanding their solution range as the process progresses. The company’s past regulatory authorizations and operational capacity are significant pillars for entering the Tokyo market.
Institutional Cryptocurrency Framework in Japan
Daiwa Securities’ crypto-collateralized lending service highlights how local brokerages are integrating cryptocurrencies into banking product architectures. Clients can use Bitcoin and Ethereum assets as collateral to access yen liquidity. The partnership within the service scope with Fintertech supports the risk and operational processes of the institutional side.
Regulations and oversight approaches that have gained clarity in Japan have increased visibility for institutional capital. Rising transaction volumes and the growing interest of traditional financial players encourage new license applications.
