Japanese tech and financial leaders collaborate to launch institutional-grade digital yen, targeting global blockchain-based financial infrastructure.
Startale and SBI Holdings Unveil Regulated Yen Stablecoin for Global Settlement
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Startale Group and SBI Holdings announced a Memorandum of Understanding on December 16, 2025, to develop a fully regulated Japanese yen-denominated stablecoin. The initiative aims to provide an alternative in the $300 billion stablecoin market, with Shinsei Trust & Banking handling issuance and SBI VC Trade managing circulation as a licensed Crypto Asset Exchange Service Provider.
Backed by Japan’s Financial Services Agency and supported by the Payment Innovation Project, the stablecoin is designed to serve as a global settlement currency and bridge between regulated digital assets and the broader onchain economy. The project is scheduled for launch in Q2 2026, complementing Startale’s existing USDSC stablecoin and positioning Japan at the forefront of digital financial innovation.
🧭 FAQs
• Who is developing the yen stablecoin? Startale Group and SBI Holdings in a joint initiative.
• When is the launch planned? Q2 2026, following regulatory framework establishment.
• What is the primary purpose of the stablecoin? Global settlement and institutional adoption of a digital yen.
• Which Japanese regulatory body supports the project? The Financial Services Agency (FSA) through its Payment Innovation Project.
