Japan to let startups raise VC funding via digital assets: Nikkei

The proposed regulation would include digital assets among the existing investment options for VC firms targeting emerging crypto startups

Sep 16 (blockworks) - Japan is reportedly preparing to allow startups to raise fresh funding from venture capital firms through the sale of digital assets.

According to a report by Nikkei on Friday, the plan from the Japanese government is expected to be submitted to parliament as early as next year. Blockworks has reached out for further confirmation.

Traditionally, the VC environment in Japan has been seen as conservative compared to more aggressive markets like Silicon Valley. Regulations have been viewed as stringent and the investment scene risk-averse.

Limited partnerships, the common vehicle for VC investment in Japan, are generally restricted to more conventional assets.

The new rule would add digital assets to a list of investment avenues available to those firms looking to put money into budding crypto startups, including stock options and securities.

Crimes by U.S. Military Personnel Hit Record High in Okinawa

The number of U.S. military personnel arrested for criminal offenses in Okinawa has reached 77 so far this year, already surpassing the record total for all of 2024 as of the end of September.

Japan to Tighten Visa Rules on Foreigners Behind on Health Insurance

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare plans to introduce a new system starting in June 2027 that will, in principle, deny changes or renewals of residence status for foreign residents who fail to pay their national health insurance premiums despite repeated requests for payment.

New Typhoon is Forming, Okinawa Could Be Affected Next Week

As of November 4th, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that a tropical depression near the Caroline Islands is expected to develop into a typhoon within the next 24 hours. The system is separate from Typhoon No. 25 (Haiyan) currently near the Philippines and is projected to move northwestward once it intensifies.

Akita Woman Becomes 13th Bear Victim

Japan’s record-breaking bear crisis has entered a new and deadly phase, with authorities confirming that a 79-year-old woman missing in Akita Prefecture was found dead in the mountains, believed to be the 13th fatality from bear attacks this year.

Second Bird Flu Case of the Season, Massive Culling Underway

An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed at a poultry farm in Eniwa City, Hokkaido, prompting authorities to begin culling operations on Sunday afternoon.

MEDIA CHANNELS