Circle Expands its USD Coin (USDC) Stablecoin to Japan Through Strategic Partnership with SBI Holdings

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the adoption of stablecoins in the country, seeing that it comes a few weeks after SBI VC Trade, a cryptocurrency exchange under SBI Holdings, secured regulatory approval to introduce USDC under Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) stablecoin regulatory framework on March 4, 2025.

Circle, a global financial technology company, has announced a strategic partnership with SBI Holdings to extend support for its USD Coin (USDC) stablecoin in Japan.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the integration of stablecoins into the Japanese financial ecosystem. It follows SBI VC Trade, a cryptocurrency exchange operated by SBI Holdings, securing approval from Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) to introduce USDC in the country.

The approval, which was granted on March 4, 2025, makes USDC the first international dollar stablecoin to be fully recognized under Japan’s new stablecoin regulatory framework.

Major crypto exchanges to list USDC

Over the past two years, Circle has been diligently working with banking partners and regulators to ensure seamless integration of its stablecoin offering in accordance with Japan’s transparent and comprehensive stablecoin regulations.

This partnership will see Circle and SBI Holdings jointly strive to expand the adoption of USDC in Japan, utilizing Circle’s platforms and technologies.

SBI VC Trade will commence full-scale USDC trading on March 26, 2025, after a trial period with selected users. This launch is anticipated to boost liquidity in the Japanese crypto market and attract institutional investors.

Major exchanges, including Binance Japan, bitbank, and bitFlyer, have also pledged to list and distribute USDC, further increasing its reach and accessibility to a broader user base in the country.

Circle is strengthening its commitment to the Japanese market with the establishment of its local entity, Circle Japan KK, and partnerships with SBI Holdings and leading exchanges.

The partnership between Circle and SBI Holdings aims to enhance the usability and accessibility of digital assets for both consumers and businesses, supporting digital payments, settlements, and treasury operations in Japan.

Japan’s progressive stance on digital finance and its early integration of stablecoin regulation positions the country as a leader in the global stablecoin market.

With its local presence and partnerships, Circle is well-positioned to accelerate stablecoin adoption, enhance market infrastructure, and support businesses and institutions in driving digital finance innovation in Japan.

USDC’s entry into Japan is set to transform the country’s digital finance ecosystem. Known for its dollar peg and low transaction fees, USDC can enhance efficiency in international transactions, especially with the US.

This is particularly relevant for Japan’s remittance market, which handles billions of dollars annually.

Furthermore, USDC’s stability and transparency make it an attractive option for digital transactions, aligning with Japan’s ambitions to nurture Web3 companies and foster a more inclusive financial system.

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