TL;DR
SBI Securities and Rakuten Securities announced they will begin offering in-house developed cryptocurrency investment trusts. This marks a significant step in Japan’s evolving crypto investment market, with other firms considering similar moves once regulations are clarified.
SBI Securities and Rakuten Securities have announced plans to start offering cryptocurrency investment trusts developed in-house, marking a notable development in Japan’s digital asset market.
On May 17, 2026, SBI Securities and Rakuten Securities disclosed their intentions to launch cryptocurrency investment trusts created internally. These products will allow investors to gain exposure to cryptocurrencies through professionally managed trust funds, a move that aligns with broader industry trends in digital asset investment.
According to sources within the firms, the products are currently in the development phase and are awaiting regulatory approval from Japanese financial authorities. The firms indicated that their offerings would be compliant with existing regulations, which are expected to be clarified further in the coming months.
Other major securities firms, including Nomura Securities, are reportedly considering entering the market once the regulatory framework is in place, signaling a potential expansion of crypto-related investment products in Japan.
Why It Matters
This development is significant because it represents a shift towards more institutionalized and regulated crypto investment products in Japan. The move by SBI and Rakuten demonstrates growing confidence in digital assets as a mainstream investment class. For investors, this could mean increased access to diversified crypto exposure through traditional financial channels, potentially boosting adoption and market maturity.
Moreover, the involvement of major firms like SBI and Rakuten could influence regulatory discussions and pave the way for broader acceptance of crypto investment trusts within Japan’s financial system.
The Basics of Bitcoins and Blockchains: An Introduction to Cryptocurrencies and the Technology that Powers Them (Cryptography, Derivatives Investments, Futures Trading, Digital Assets, NFT)
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Background
Japan has been gradually integrating cryptocurrencies into its financial landscape, with regulatory efforts aimed at balancing innovation and investor protection. Currently, digital assets are subject to oversight, but specific investment products such as trusts are still emerging. The announcement by SBI and Rakuten follows a period of increased interest in crypto assets, especially in the context of global trends where investment trusts are a common vehicle for retail investors.
Previously, similar products have been offered in the U.S. and other markets, but Japan’s regulatory environment remains cautious. The firms’ plans are contingent upon regulatory approval, which is expected to be clarified as authorities review proposed frameworks for crypto investment products.
“We are committed to developing compliant crypto investment products that meet investor needs and regulatory standards.”
— An SBI Securities spokesperson
“Our upcoming crypto trust offerings aim to provide diversified digital asset exposure within a regulated framework.”
— A Rakuten Securities official
What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear when the regulatory approval will be granted and the specific details of the products once launched. Additionally, the scope of offerings by other firms and the regulatory response are still developing.
What’s Next
Next steps include regulatory reviews and approvals, with the firms likely to announce official launch dates once compliance is confirmed. Monitoring regulatory developments will be key to understanding the timeline for market entry.
Key Questions
What are cryptocurrency investment trusts?
Cryptocurrency investment trusts are financial products that pool investor funds to invest in cryptocurrencies, offering a managed exposure to digital assets within a regulated structure.
Why are SBI and Rakuten developing these products now?
The firms aim to capitalize on growing investor interest in digital assets and to offer regulated, accessible crypto investment options in Japan.
When will these products be available to investors?
The timeline depends on regulatory approval, which is expected in the coming months, but an exact launch date has not yet been announced.
How might this affect the Japanese crypto market?
If successful, these offerings could lead to increased institutional participation and broader acceptance of crypto investment products in Japan.
