Japan’s Stablecoin Framework Sets Global Safety Standards but May Stifle DeFi Innovation
Japan's 2023 amendments to the Payment Services Act established rigorous consumer protections for stablecoins, mandating bank-led issuance and full reserve backing. While praised for legal clarity, economists warn the domestically-focused framework risks leaving Japan behind Hong Kong and Singapore in the race for crypto innovation.
"Hong Kong's regulations are stricter but more open to international players," says Keio University's Professor Sayuri Shirai. The contrast highlights a regional divide: Asian financial hubs increasingly compete to attract global stablecoin issuers while Japan prioritizes domestic transaction security.