Laser Digital Applies for Japan Crypto License: Nomura Subsidiary Expands Digital Asset Services

Laser Digital, the cryptocurrency subsidiary of Japanese financial giant Nomura Holdings, is advancing plans to secure a digital asset trading license in Japan. According to Bloomberg reports, the Switzerland-based firm has entered pre-application discussions with Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) to establish regulated crypto services for institutional investors. CEO Jez Mohideen confirmed the strategic expansion, stating "Our entry into Japan reflects our optimism in the Japanese digital-asset ecosystem." This development coincides with growing institutional crypto adoption in Japan, as competitor Daiwa Securities recently began accepting Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) as collateral for yen loans, signaling increased integration between traditional finance and digital assets in the Japanese market.