According to a recent Bloomberg report, the Osaka Exchange in Japan is exploring a cryptocurrency derivatives strategy. This move marks a crucial step towards the institutional adoption of digital assets in Japan.
The president of the Osaka Exchange, Ryusuke Yokoyama, revealed plans to investigate cryptocurrency derivatives in response to growing investor demand. The exchange will contact Japan's Financial Services Agency following discussions on regulatory changes in the cryptocurrency sector. Yokoyama stated, "We will thoroughly study various international specifications and conduct research to determine if they are suitable for Japan as a preliminary step."
Interestingly, the parent company, Japan Exchange Group (JPX), is exploring the possibility of launching cryptocurrency-related exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Yokoyama stated that if the plan is approved, the ETF will be listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. According to Yokoyama, exploring cryptocurrency-related ETFs offers opportunities to develop products with greater exposure, leveraging the existing infrastructure of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
It is noteworthy that this move coincides with Japan's recent decision to lift the ban on cryptocurrency ETFs. As reported by CoinGape, Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) proposed a significant regulatory reform for cryptocurrencies, suggesting that digital assets be governed by a new framework under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act.
Meanwhile, JPX's CEO, Hiromi Yamamichi, stated that the company's medium-term management plan aims to expand into new asset classes, including cryptocurrencies, to meet the changing needs of the market. This plan aligns with JPX's long-term vision of becoming a comprehensive global financial and information platform.
Japan was one of the first countries to legalize cryptocurrencies. The country accepted digital assets as legal payment methods in 2017. Despite challenges such as the collapse of Mt. Gox and major cyberattacks, Japan has continued to refine its regulatory framework, establishing a benchmark for other countries. Starting in July 2025, Japan will update its cryptocurrency regulations, tighten anti-money laundering laws, introduce new tax reporting obligations, and reclassify tokens.
The Japanese investment giant Metaplanet is aggressively accumulating Bitcoin, mimicking Michael Saylor's BTC strategy. This also highlights Japan's growing enthusiasm for digital assets.
