Mark Piano: Yen Stablecoins & Japan’s Crypto Future

Mark Piano: Yen Stablecoins & Japan’s Crypto Future

Author: Bitcoin.com April 13, 2026 Duration: 29:34

Mark Piano, Director and Consultant at Horizons Global, joins Bitcoin.com News to discuss the future of yen-backed stablecoins, Japan’s evolving crypto regulations, and how legal frameworks are shaping the next phase of Web3 growth.


In this episode, Mark explains why Japan’s regulatory clarity could become a major advantage for blockchain builders, and how yen stablecoins may unlock new opportunities in tokenization, DeFi, and cross-border finance. He also breaks down the role of offshore structures, including Cayman foundation companies, and why they’ve become a standard for Web3 projects globally.

From Bitcoin’s early real-world use cases to the lessons learned from the DAO hack, this conversation explores how law, infrastructure, and innovation intersect in the crypto industry.


Topics include: stablecoins, Japan crypto regulation, Web3 infrastructure, tokenization, DeFi, offshore finance, Cayman foundations, Bitcoin adoption, and global crypto markets.


Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

01:08 – Bitcoin Utility in Myanmar (No ATMs)

02:30 – The DAO Hack & Becoming a Crypto Lawyer

03:45 – Moving to the Cayman Islands

04:50 – Why Cayman Became a Crypto Hub

06:05 – What Are Cayman Foundation Companies?

06:45 – Why Ownerless Foundations Matter in Web3

08:00 – Onshore vs Offshore Structures

14:13 – Directors’ Fiduciary Duties Explained

16:33 – Why Mark Is in Japan

17:18 – Yen Stablecoins & Tokenization Opportunities

19:58 – Offshore Stablecoin Issuance21:09 – Institutional vs Retail Market Access


Bitcoin.com News Interviews offers a direct line to the people shaping the digital economy. Each episode features a focused conversation, pulling back the curtain on the strategies, challenges, and personal insights of influential figures from across the Bitcoin and broader cryptocurrency landscape. You'll hear founders explaining the real-world problems their projects aim to solve, investors discussing the shifting tides of market sentiment, and veteran leaders reflecting on the industry's rapid evolution. This isn't about hype or price predictions; it's about understanding the foundational ideas and human decisions driving this technological frontier. The discussions are grounded and substantive, providing context that goes far beyond headlines. By listening to this podcast, you gain access to the nuanced perspectives that often remain behind the scenes, offering a clearer picture of where things have been and where they might be headed. It's a resource for anyone looking to move past surface-level news and engage with the substantive dialogue happening within the cryptoverse. These interviews serve as an essential audio companion, translating complex concepts into relatable conversations and connecting the dots between technological innovation, economic shifts, and community building. Tune in for thoughtful, long-form dialogues that illuminate the key players and pivotal moments defining this dynamic space.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

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