tokenization

SBI Ripple Asia Secures Regulatory Approval for XRP Ledger-Based Prepaid Token Platform

Norbert Gehrke

14 Apr 2026 — 2 min read

SBI Ripple Asia has completed the development of a blockchain-based token issuance platform and has officially registered as a "Third-Party Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer."

The registration, finalized on March 26, 2026, marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to integrate public blockchain technology with Japan’s regulated financial landscape. The new platform is built on the XRP Ledger (XRPL), a public blockchain known for its high-speed and low-cost transactions.

The platform is designed to allow businesses to issue and manage digital tokens by connecting to existing applications and websites via API. According to the company, this allows service providers to introduce token functionality without disrupting their current user experience or customer touchpoints.

To ensure compliance with the Payment Services Act, SBI Ripple Asia has combined the XRPL infrastructure with proprietary wallet control technology. This hybrid approach is intended to meet the strict financial regulatory requirements for third-party prepaid payment instruments while maintaining the transparency and efficiency of a public ledger.

Targeting Regional Economies and Digital Incentives

SBI Ripple Asia stated that the platform is initially intended for use in specific "economic zones," such as tourist destinations. The goal is to link consumer behavior with digital incentives, creating a seamless payment and reward ecosystem.

"We are moving forward with the construction of new payment and incentive mechanisms that provide cost benefits and service scalability within the real economy," the company stated in the release.

Strategic Outlook

Looking ahead, SBI Ripple Asia plans to continue its focus on the social implementation of blockchain technology. By collaborating with partner companies and regional authorities, the firm aims to build new business models that remain fully compliant with evolving financial regulations.

Based in Tokyo and led by CEO Masahito Okuyama, SBI Ripple Asia was established in 2016 as a joint venture to provide blockchain solutions across Japan and South Korea, specifically focusing on cross-border payments and digital asset initiatives.

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