- Circle has partnered with SBI Holdings to launch USDC in Japan, increasing adoption of the stablecoin.
- Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) recently approved USDC, making it the first internationally issued dollar stablecoin legally recognized under Japan’s stablecoin framework.
- USDC trading on SBI VC Trade will begin on March 26, 2025.
Circle, a global financial technology company, announced a strategic partnership with SBI Holdings to expand support for its USD Coin (USDC) stablecoin in Japan.
This collaboration represents a significant milestone for stablecoin adoption in Japan, arriving just weeks after SBI VC Trade, a cryptocurrency exchange operated by SBI Holdings, received regulatory approval to introduce USDC under Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) stablecoin framework on March 4, 2025.
The FSA’s approval makes USDC the first internationally issued dollar-denominated stablecoin to be legally recognized within Japan’s stablecoin regulatory framework.
Major cryptocurrency exchanges list USDC
Over the past two years, Circle has worked closely with banking partners and regulators to comply with Japan’s transparent stablecoin rules.
Through this partnership, Circle and SBI Holdings intend to accelerate USDC adoption in Japan by leveraging Circle’s technology platforms. After a pilot phase for selected users, SBI VC Trade will launch large-scale USDC trading on March 26, 2025.
This launch is expected to boost liquidity in Japan’s crypto market and attract institutional investors. Major exchanges, including Binance Japan, bitbank and bitFlyer, have also committed to listing and distributing USDC, further extending its reach and accessibility across Japan.
Circle’s expansion in Japan
Circle is strengthening its commitment to Japan through its local entity, Circle Japan KK, and strategic partnerships with SBI Holdings and leading exchanges.
The Circle–SBI partnership is expected to improve usability and access to digital assets for both consumers and businesses, supporting digital payments, settlements and treasury operations in Japan.
Japan’s progressive stance on digital finance and stablecoin regulation positions the country as a leader in the global stablecoin market.
With a dedicated local presence, Circle is well positioned to accelerate stablecoin adoption, enhance market infrastructure and support companies and institutions pursuing digital finance innovation.
The introduction of USDC in Japan is poised to reshape the country’s digital finance ecosystem. Pegged to the U.S. dollar, USDC can improve efficiency in cross-border transactions, especially those involving the United States—an important consideration for Japan’s remittance market, which handles billions of dollars annually.
Additionally, USDC’s stability and transparency make it an attractive option for digital transactions, aligning with Japan’s ambitions to foster Web3 companies and broader digital finance innovation.