SMBC Nikko and Uniswap to launch regulated DeFi gateway

6.6 Regulation

Oct 2, 2026

SMBC Nikko, Uniswap Labs, Nethermind, Base, and Nyx Foundation will build a regulated DeFi gateway for Japan, using Uniswap v4 hooks for compliance, with a target launch in mid-2027.

SMBC Nikko Securities, Uniswap Labs, Nethermind, Base, and Nyx Foundation have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a regulated decentralized finance (DeFi) gateway for Japanese investors, with a target launch by mid-2027. The project will leverage Uniswap v4’s Hooks feature to create custom liquidity pools that integrate anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CFT), and investor protection mechanisms, ensuring full compliance with Japanese regulations. Nethermind will lead technical development, focusing on AI integration and smart contract security, while SMBC Nikko will handle regulatory communication and compliance. The initiative also aims to explore AI-driven vaults, stablecoins, and strategies for real-world asset liquidity. Although still in development and not yet approved for public use, the project seeks to provide a compliant on-ramp for traditional financial institutions and investors in Japan, potentially setting a new standard for regulated DeFi adoption globally.