FinTech/Blockchain

FinTech companies using new technologies such as AI and blockchain have attracted worldwide attention. Today, FinTech companies provide a wide range of services including cryptocurrencies, online payments, crowdfunding, credit scoring, and robo-advice. Depending on the business model, the Banking Act, the Payment Services Act, the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act, the Insurance Business Act, the Money Lending Business Act, the Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds, or the Act on the Protection of Personal Information may apply.

Our lawyers have deep specialist knowledge and extensive experience in this field and constantly expand their know-how through close interaction with the relevant organizations and regulators. In a fast-changing environment, this enables us to stay ahead of the curve and counter risks before they arise.

Leveraging our expertise, we provide a wide range of legal services to companies in the FinTech industry. Our services include advice on structuring business models and products, the preparation of related agreements and internal policies as well as advice on regulatory matters, including the application for licenses and registration.

Experience

• Assisted several crypto asset exchanges with the registration as crypto asset exchange service providers with the FSA and provision of ongoing legal advice.
• Advised crypto asset exchanges on the implementation of internal compliance and governance systems.
• Advised local and foreign companies on the regulatory environment for initial coin offerings (ICOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs) in Japan.
• Assisted blockchain entertainment company with the refund of ICO proceeds in Japan.
• Advised leading stable coin provider on the legal and regulatory environment for stable coins in Japan.
• Advised major crypto company on the provision of crypto derivatives services in Japan and assisted with the roll-out including contract documentation.
• Provided legal advice to blockchain gaming company on legal and regulatory framework for non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
• Provided legal advice to a foreign payment service provider on the roll-out of its services in Japan.
• Advised a foreign broker on the acquisition of a registered FIBO in Japan.
• Provided legal advice to local and foreign credit scoring, factoring, fund settlement, InsureTech and robo-advisory companies.