Japan's framework, requiring 100% backing by liquid assets and banning algorithmic stablecoins, is intentionally strict. This approach aims to build institutional trust and position its yen stablecoin as a highly reliable and secure digital asset on the global stage, contrasting with less-regulated cryptocurrencies.

The 24/7 nature of perpetual futures (“perps”) is attractive to traditional markets for assets like the S&P 500. This shift requires 24/7 settlement infrastructure, making stablecoins essential collateral and creating a massive, non-speculative demand driver for them.

Despite being a latecomer, Japan's regulatory framework is setting a global precedent. Its strict requirements—such as 100% backing by high-quality liquid assets and a ban on algorithmic stablecoins—are being mirrored by other major financial centers, positioning Japan's model as the new standard for trust and stability.

The recent explosion of stablecoins wasn't due to a new financial innovation, but the maturation of underlying blockchain infrastructure. Cheaper and faster transactions on Layer 2 solutions and improved Layer 1s finally made large-scale, low-cost payments practical for real-world use.

To extend the solvency of U.S. debt, create a one-to-one stablecoin backed by treasuries. This would grant global citizens, particularly in countries with unstable currencies, a direct way to save in a dollar-denominated asset. This new demand could lengthen the runway for U.S. fiscal policy.

Instead of funding another stablecoin protocol, the more viable investment is in the tooling layer. This includes payment systems, SDKs, and accounting software (like triple-entry bookkeeping) that enable small businesses globally to integrate stablecoin payments into their existing fiat workflows.

Rather than viewing Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and private stablecoins as competitors, Japan's approach suggests a complementary relationship. A government CBDC could serve as foundational public infrastructure, upon which private sector stablecoins can build innovative financial applications and services.

Instead of disrupting the established SWIFT network, Japan's stablecoins are positioned to work alongside it. They offer a parallel system for faster, cheaper transactions, potentially reducing fees by up to 80%, while leveraging SWIFT's existing trust and compliance frameworks for broader adoption.

While stablecoins gain attention, tokenized deposits offer similar benefits—like on-chain transactions—but operate within the existing, trusted regulatory banking framework. As they are simply bank liabilities on a blockchain, they may become a more palatable alternative for corporates seeking efficiency without regulatory uncertainty.