Japan’s SBI Holdings is preparing to take a significant step into blockchain-based stock tokenization, a move that could transform equity trading for millions of investors. The initiative is aimed at directly linking stock ownership to digital tokens, potentially cutting costs, accelerating cross-border transactions, and reducing reliance on traditional brokerages.
Reports from TV Tokyo indicated that the launch of the project could come as early as 2026, with discussions on pilot testing already underway. To advance this plan, SBI is reportedly forming a joint venture with Singapore-based Startail Group. The collaboration is expected to create a blockchain-powered infrastructure capable of digitizing multiple financial instruments, including stocks, bonds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), under a single platform.
Digital tokens tied to equities
Executives within the group have highlighted that the project seeks to replace intermediaries with faster, blockchain-driven settlement processes. Issuing equities as tokens would make Japanese stocks more accessible to overseas investors while offering greater efficiency in the domestic market. Unlike cryptocurrencies that often face sharp fluctuations, tokenized equities would be pegged to actual stock values and yields. This linkage is anticipated to stabilize their worth while still providing the benefits of digital trading, such as near-instant transactions and minimal costs.
SBI’s customer base, numbering over 50 million across its banking and securities divisions, is seen as a key driver of adoption. The leadership believes that once tokenized products are introduced, the company’s large client network could accelerate uptake and position Japan as a leader in blockchain-powered capital markets.
Global momentum in tokenized assets
Internationally, the concept of tokenized equities is gaining ground. In June, platforms such as Robinhood and Kraken announced their plans to offer tokenized U.S. stocks through blockchain technology. At the same time, U.S. regulators have begun establishing guidelines to distinguish securities from other crypto assets, with support from the Securities and Exchange Commission. This regulatory shift suggests broader acceptance of tokenization as a legitimate structure for capital markets.
Japan has also been making strides in digital finance. Earlier this month, regulators approved the nation’s first fiat-linked stablecoin, signaling increased openness to financial innovation. However, discussions around tokenized equities remain at an early stage compared to the U.S., making SBI’s move one of the first major pushes in this direction within Japan.
Strategic timeline and leadership vision
The initiative is expected to be presented in more detail by SBI Chairman Yoshitaka Kitao during the WebX crypto event starting on August 22. He has reportedly characterized the project as an opportunity to develop new global trading infrastructure.
While early testing is still in progress, the expected release window for the platform is between late 2026 and 2027. If successful, the project could lead to a future in which stocks, bonds, and ETFs are all available in tokenized form on blockchain networks, providing Japanese and global investors with faster, more efficient access to financial markets.
