Baker McKenzie (Gaikokuho Joint Enterprise) is at the forefront of developments in the Japanese fintech space, providing a comprehensive service to regulators, financial institutions, digital leaders, and tech incubators/start-ups. One of the leading members of the firm’s Global Fintech Initiative, Gavin Raftery has considerable experience advising financial institutions and tech companies on a wide range of matters, including AI, algorithmic trading, blockchain and cryptocurrencies, data monetisation, and cybersecurity. Financial regulations specialist Masato Honma provides key support on fintech matters, and often advises on financial regulations.

Clifford Chance (Gaikokuho Kyodo Jigyo)’s broad fintech offering encompasses M&A, blockchain and AI tech, data privacy, financial regulations, and capital markets work, among other areas. Practice head Yusuke Abe draws on his strong banking and finance experience to advise start-ups in relation to fintech matters. Capital markets lawyers Reiko Sakimura and Leng-Fong Lai are both active in the fintech space. Natsuko Sugihara’s varied practice covers M&A, private equity, and, increasingly, fintech matters, and the overlap of these areas. With in-depth knowledge of corporate governance and securities law issues, Michihiro Nishi regularly advises on the acquisition and integration of fintech companies.

Paul Hastings LLP’ fintech offering in Tokyo benefits from collaboration with the firm’s global network to advise clients on the burgeoning fintech scene in Japan, including regulatory matters. Toshiyuki Arai has considerable experience in the Japanese payments market, including the relevant regulatory requirements. At the associate level, Olga Belosludova and Yuko Kamo are key contacts.