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Nomura, Japan's largest investment bank with assets exceeding $500 billion, has introduced the Bitcoin Adoption Fund through its digital asset subsidiary, Laser Digital Asset Management. This fund aims to provide institutional investors with direct exposure to Bitcoin, signaling Nomura's entry into the cryptocurrency market. The Bitcoin Adoption Fund is the first in a series of digital adoption investment solutions planned by the financial giant.
Institutional Access to Bitcoin
The Laser Digital Bitcoin Adoption Fund offers institutional investors the opportunity to gain long-only exposure to Bitcoin. Nomura has selected Komainu as its regulated custody partner to ensure the secure storage of digital assets. This Bitcoin fund operates as part of the Laser Digital Funds Segregated Portfolio Company and is registered as a mutual fund in compliance with the Cayman Islands Regulatory Authority.
Seizing Transformational Change
Sebastian Gugliet, Head of Laser Digital Asset Management, emphasized that Bitcoin plays a pivotal role in driving long-lasting transformation in the financial landscape. Providing investors with long-term exposure to Bitcoin allows them to participate in this significant macro trend.
Nomura's Ongoing Digital Asset Ventures
While the Bitcoin Adoption Fund marks Nomura's debut in offering cryptocurrency investment products, the bank has been actively engaging with the digital asset ecosystem. In September 2022, Nomura established a digital asset venture capital arm to stay at the forefront of digital innovation. Additionally, Nomura's crypto arm, Laser Digital, secured a license from Dubai's Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) to operate in the region.
Global Trend of Bitcoin-Based Investment Products
Nomura's launch of the Bitcoin Adoption Fund aligns with a broader trend of regulated and mainstream financial institutions exploring Bitcoin-based investment products. Notably, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved two Bitcoin-based futures exchange-traded funds (ETFs), although decisions on spot Bitcoin ETFs are pending. Canada and Europe have also authorized various Bitcoin-focused investment products in recent years.
Nomura's entry into the cryptocurrency market through the Bitcoin Adoption Fund reflects the growing interest from institutional investors in gaining exposure to Bitcoin and highlights the expanding acceptance of digital assets within traditional finance.
