The Osaka Digital Exchange (ODX) has named its Securities Token (ST) Market “START.”

Osaka Digital Exchange Co. (ODX) is poised to transform Japan’s financial landscape with the launch of the country’s inaugural digital securities trading on December 25. This revolutionary platform, established in 2021, boasts backing from influential figures in traditional finance, including SBI Holdings (TYO: 8473) and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (TYO: 8316).

Regulatory approval for ODX’s proprietary trading system, named START, was granted on November 16.

The platform’s launch will showcase security tokens issued by real estate giants Ichigo Inc. (TYO: 2337) and Kenedix Inc. (TYO: 4321), with the initial focus on securities backed by property investments from Ichigo. The Ichigo Owners, a real estate firm, is expected to issue approximately ¥3 billion ($27.1 million) worth of tokenized securities, with the Ichigo Residence Token being the largest issue price ever for an Ichigo Group security token. (CryptoNews)

Security tokens, representing traditionally managed securities in digital form, offer enhanced accessibility, transparency, and efficiency. ODX aims to address the liquidity challenge of security tokens through its regulated platform, START, facilitating seamless trading.

The introduction of digital securities trading in Japan is anticipated to unlock new opportunities for investors, promote diversification, and contribute to the broader adoption of digital securities. Japan’s move into digital securities trading aligns with global trends, with other Asian markets like Hong Kong and South Korea also embracing security token sales.

These developments signify a broader shift towards the integration of alternative assets into Japan’s financial landscape, offering new avenues for investors and addressing the funding needs of the aging population.

This initiative by Osaka Digital Exchange holds promise for transformative changes in Japan’s financial ecosystem.

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