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Circle will launch the stablecoin USDC in Giappone on March 26 thanks to a partnership with SBI Holdings.
The operation follows the approval of the Japan Financial Services Agency (JFSA) and represents a significant step for the adoption of digital currencies in the country.
The adoption of digital assets continues to grow globally, and Japan confirms itself as a key market for the development of cryptocurrencies. Circle, a leading company in the stablecoin sector, is preparing to introduce USDC into the Japanese market through an agreement with SBI Holdings.
The initiative follows the regulatory approval obtained at the beginning of March from the Japan Financial Services Agency (JFSA) and marks an important evolution for the blockchain-based financial system in the country.
Summary
USDC lands in Japan thanks to the collaboration between Circle and SBI Holdings
Japan has long been a pioneer in the adoption of blockchain technology and criptovalute. The country’s regulatory framework is among the clearest and most advanced internationally, establishing precise rules on the use of stablecoin in local financial markets.
Jeremy Allaire, co-founder and CEO of Circle, highlighted how the Japanese regulatory environment facilitates the development of the sector:
“Japan has always been at the forefront in the adoption of Web3 and blockchain technology. The country’s leadership in regulation has established clear rules for the use of stablecoins in the local financial system”,
stated Allaire in an official statement.
The launch process of USDC in Japan was not improvised. Circle worked for two years with local regulatory authorities to ensure the compliance of its stablecoin with the Japanese legislative framework.
SBI Holdings to Accelerate the Adoption of USDC in Japan
The agreement between Circle and SBI Holdings represents a strategic alliance for the success of USDC in the Japanese market. SBI Holdings is one of the most influential financial groups in the country, and its involvement could promote a rapid adoption of the stablecoin among institutions and retail users.
“We believe that this initiative will enhance financial accessibility and drive innovation in the field of digital assets. It aligns with our global vision for the future of payments and blockchain-based finance in Japan”,
stated Yoshitaka Kitao, President and CEO of SBI Holdings.
Thanks to this collaboration, Japanese consumers and businesses will be able to access USDC more easily, using it for digital payments, money transfers, and other financial transactions.
Growing adoption of USDC in the Asia-Pacific region
The expansion of USDC in Japan is part of a broader trend of growth in the adoption of digital currencies in the Asia-Pacific region.
According to a report published by Circle in 2024, the Asia-Pacific region accounts for 29% of the global volume of digital currency transactions. This figure places the region ahead of Western Europe (22%) and North America (19%), highlighting a strong interest in the use of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins.
The growing demand for digital assets in Asia is also confirmed by the integration of USDC into the GCash digital wallet of the Philippines, one of the largest electronic payment systems in the region.
The stablecoin market and the position of USDC
USDC is currently one of the most used stablecoins in the world, with a market capitalization of approximately 59.7 billion dollars according to CoinGecko data. Through the launch in Japan, Circle aims to strengthen its position in the sector and increase the adoption of its digital currency globally.
The decision to expand into Japan stems not only from favorable regulations but also from the growing demand for secure and stable alternative payment methods in the country. With the blockchain infrastructure continuously evolving and the support of local financial institutions, Circle sees Japan as a key market for the growth of USDC and the entire stablecoin sector.
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Conclusions
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The launch of USDC in Japan on March 26 marks a significant development for the cryptocurrency sector and solidifies the country as one of the leaders in the adoption of digital assets. The regulatory approval from the Japan Financial Services Agency and the partnership with SBI Holdings provide a favorable context for the integration of the stablecoin into the local financial market.
With a continuously growing demand and clear regulation, Japan could become a benchmark for the responsible and institutional use of stablecoins globally. Circle’s strategy, supported by collaborations with leading financial players, highlights the potential of digital currencies in transforming the international payments system.