SoftBank’s PayPay has acquired a 40% stake in Binance Japan, marking a major crossover between regulated fintech and crypto infrastructure. The deal makes Binance Japan an equity-method affiliate of PayPay and strengthens Binance’s position in one of Asia’s most tightly regulated digital asset markets. Integration goals Both companies plan to link PayPay’s payment network with Binance Japan’s exchange platform, enabling users to access crypto services directly through PayPay Money. The integration aims to simplify digital asset transactions for mainstream users while maintaining compliance with Japan’s licensing standards. Strategic impact For PayPay, the investment extends its reach beyond payments into digital asset management and Web3 finance. For Binance, the partnership restores local presence after its 2021 exit and underscores Japan’s growing appeal as a compliant base for global exchanges.
