Japan Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has addressed questions about the possibility of Japan establishing a Bitcoin strategic reserve, expressing uncertainty over global movements in this area. During a December 26 session, Ishiba responded to Satoshi Hamada, a member of the House of Councilors from the Party to Protect the People from NHK, who advocated for Japan to follow the United States in adopting Bitcoin as part of its foreign exchange reserves.
Hamada urged the Japanese government to consider diversifying its reserves with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, highlighting the growing global interest in the asset. However, Ishiba stated that crypto assets do not currently fall under Japan’s foreign exchange category and emphasized the lack of clarity on international approaches, making it difficult for the government to adopt a definitive stance.
Global Push for Bitcoin Reserves Gains Traction
Japan’s hesitancy comes as other nations explore the potential of Bitcoin in sovereign reserves. Jack Mallers, the CEO of Strike, recently predicted that Donald Trump, upon assuming the U.S. presidency, might issue an executive order designating Bitcoin as a reserve asset.
Similarly, Brazil has made strides in this direction. Congressman Eros Biondini introduced a bill on November 25 to establish a Sovereign Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, known as RESBit. If passed, Brazil would join a small but growing group of nations recognizing Bitcoin’s role in financial strategy.
These developments reflect an increasing acknowledgment of Bitcoin’s potential as a hedge against inflation and a diversifier in foreign reserves. However, Japan’s conservative approach to financial innovation, coupled with its commitment to regulatory clarity, suggests the country may adopt a wait-and-see strategy.
Japan’s Balanced Approach
While the Bitcoin reserve debate unfolds, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has pointed to Japan’s proactive stance on cryptocurrency regulation. Speaking in September, Garlinghouse noted Japan’s openness to stablecoin innovation, particularly the potential for a yen-backed stablecoin. He praised the country’s regulatory clarity, describing its market as “healthy” despite its conservatism.
Japan’s focus on stablecoins could reflect its preference for financial instruments that align more closely with existing frameworks. However, the global shift toward Bitcoin reserves could put pressure on Japan to reevaluate its stance in the coming years.
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