Japan makes a significant stride in XRP payments – the latest update

crypthub

about 11 hours ago

Japan's Crypto Market Leadership

Japan continues to be a leading crypto market, with institutions building real‑world blockchain infrastructure. While many regions are still drafting digital‑asset rules, Japanese firms are actively deploying blockchain solutions. This proactive stance highlights Japan’s advanced regulatory and technical ecosystem.

SBI Ripple Asia & Asia Web3 Alliance Partnership

SBI Ripple Asia and Asia Web3 Alliance Japan signed an agreement on February 20 2026 to support XRP Ledger‑based financial services. The joint effort will give startups and enterprises technical guidance, infrastructure, and compliance advisory. By focusing on regulatory alignment, the partnership aims to accelerate practical adoption over speculative use.

Regulatory Reclassification and Global Impact

Japan plans to reclassify XRP as a financial product under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act by Q2 2026. This move would embed XRP within the formal financial regulatory framework, offering clearer pathways for institutions. Combined with the partnership, the change positions Japan as a hub for compliant, cross‑border payment and enterprise blockchain applications.