Key Takeaways
- Japan has made XRP a core financial standard by integrating the token into its national economic infrastructure.
- SBI Holdings made a significant investment in Ripple in early 2016, establishing SBI Ripple Asia to expand blockchain finance across the Asia-Pacific region.
- Over 80% of Japanese banks are connected to Ripple-based networks, with leading banks like MUFG and Mizuho having tested Ripple’s cross-border payment solutions.
Japan has taken a significant step towards cryptocurrency adoption and blockchain integration by making XRP a core financial standard and a cornerstone of its economic infrastructure.
According to a post on X by X Finance Bull, while many other countries adopted a cautious approach, Japan integrated XRP deeply into its financial infrastructure through early investment, banking integration, and regulatory clarity. This has positioned XRP not just as a tradable digital asset but as a fundamental part of the nation’s financial technology.
Accelerate Blockchain Finance Adoption
In early 2026, SBI Holdings initiated an XRP strategy by investing approximately $25 million in Ripple. The investment gave the conglomerate at least 17% ownership and a pivotal role in shaping Ripple’s expansion in Asia. Over time, SBI continuously adjusted its stake, maintaining significant influence and support for Ripple’s continued operations. By 2021, SBI disclosed that it held around 10% of Ripple’s equity, underscoring its continued confidence in Ripple’s long-term value proposition.
During the same year, SBI partnered with Ripple to launch SBI Ripple Asia Co., Ltd. to accelerate blockchain finance adoption across the region. This partnership enabled Ripple’s solutions to enter key Asian markets, reinforcing Japan’s leadership in blockchain applications. As a result of the cooperation, Ripple’s network has expanded rapidly across neighboring financial systems, including Thailand and Cambodia.
XRP as Infrastructure
SBI’s partnership with Ripple supersedes ownership to encompass matters related to technology development and the deployment of payment solutions. The group has already integrated RippleNet into its cross-border services and supported XRP liquidity on its digital asset exchange. This structure built a foundation for XRP to operate not as an asset class alone, but as infrastructure.
Several central Japanese banks have already adopted Ripple’s payment systems, in addition to testing XRP integration for settlement. Among the banks that have led the way in this area of trialing Ripple-based cross-border transfers are Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Mizuho Financial Group. These efforts aim to reduce transaction times and costs compared to existing financial networks.
Unified Approach to Blockchain Innovation
According to local data, Japanese banks have been broadly exposed to XRP, with records showing that at least 80% of domestic banks are connected through Ripple-affiliated platforms. These include mobile payment solutions, interbank transfer systems, and blockchain-based financial apps powered by Ripple’s protocols. Such integration reflects Japan’s unified approach to blockchain innovation.
Conclusion
Japan’s adoption of XRP as a financial core standard extends beyond being a regional phenomenon to becoming a case study for the rest of the world. By integrating XRP across several banks, as well as retail and institutional players, the country has demonstrated what can be achieved when innovation meets regulatory foresight. As countries like the USA and European nations grapple with digital asset frameworks, Japan is a success story of what XRP can offer and what the future could hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Japan a crypto-friendly country?
Japan is the most crypto-friendly nation in Asia and one of the top crypto-friendly countries globally. Japan has recognized Bitcoin as a legal form of payment since 2017, making its markets a mature adopter of digital currencies.
Is crypto legal in Japan?
Yes, crypto is legal. In the Chainalysis’ 2024 Global Adoption Index, Japan ranked 23rd globally in terms of adoption, alongside other East Asian nations, South Korea, China, and Hong Kong.
What crypto is used in Japan?
MonaCoin is a cryptocurrency primarily used in Japan. Like Bitcoin, MonaCoin uses the proof-of-work operating protocol.