Sumitomo Targets Stablecoins and Trade Finance with New Blockchain Infrastructure Division
Sumitomo Corporation, one of Japan’s leading general trading houses, is deepening its footprint in the digital asset infrastructure space. The conglomerate announced the launch of its Blockchain Node Operation Initiative, a move designed to integrate decentralized technology into its core business lines, ranging from trade finance to energy.
In collaboration with its IT subsidiary SCSK, Sumitomo has commenced node operations on major public and enterprise ledgers, including Ethereum, Avalanche, and the Canton Network. By running nodes—the critical infrastructure responsible for validating transactions and maintaining network consensus—Sumitomo is effectively positioning itself as a stakeholder in the governance and security of these ecosystems.
The move signals a shift in institutional adoption from exploration to active participation. While blockchain technology was once synonymous with cryptocurrency speculation, Sumitomo is leveraging the technology to overhaul legacy industrial processes. The corporation cites tokenization, supply chain transparency, and automated settlements as key drivers for the initiative.
According to the company, direct participation in node operations will facilitate the development of proprietary on-chain applications. Of note to investors, Sumitomo disclosed it is actively considering stablecoin-based initiatives to streamline cross-border remittances, a sector long plagued by high fees and slow settlement times in traditional banking.
Looking ahead, Sumitomo plans to expand its operational footprint to additional high-impact blockchain networks, aiming to accelerate the deployment of business-linked Web3 solutions across its global portfolio.
Norbert Gehrke
