SoftBank’s PayPay has announced a major move in Japan’s digital finance sector by acquiring a 40% stake in Binance Japan, the local subsidiary of the global crypto exchange Binance. This strategic partnership is designed to integrate PayPay’s popular cashless payment system with Binance’s blockchain technology, paving the way for a unified financial platform where users can move seamlessly between traditional money and cryptocurrencies.

As part of the collaboration, users will soon be able to buy cryptocurrencies directly through the Binance app using PayPay Money, and withdraw funds from crypto sales back into their PayPay accounts. This streamlined experience aims to reduce barriers between fiat and digital assets, making it easier for millions of Japanese users to engage with Web3 and digital finance innovations.

The alliance arrives as Japan’s crypto sector experiences rapid growth, with digital asset transactions doubling to ¥33.7 trillion in 2025. Both PayPay and Binance Japan are fully compliant with Japan’s strict financial regulations, including robust anti-money laundering rules and asset protection standards.

PayPay’s investment aligns with SoftBank’s broader fintech expansion strategy, strengthening PayPay’s role as a leader in digital payments while positioning it at the forefront of crypto adoption. By combining PayPay’s trusted payment network with Binance’s blockchain leadership, the partnership promises to deliver secure and accessible digital asset services tailored to Japanese consumers.

This move reflects the transformative impact of regulatory clarity in Japan, encouraging innovation and building confidence in the digital finance ecosystem. With this collaboration, PayPay and Binance Japan are setting a new standard for seamlessly integrating cashless and crypto transactions under a single, user-friendly platform.