CMC News

Sony #Stablecoin Set for 2026 Launch Across #PlayStation Ecosystem

Sony Bank is preparing to introduce a dollar-pegged stablecoin in 2026 that will enable cryptocurrency payments for PlayStation games, subscriptions, and anime content across its U.S. operations.

The online lending subsidiary of Sony Financial Group filed for a U.S. banking license in October to establish a stablecoin-focused subsidiary. The initiative targets American customers who represent roughly 30% of Sony Group's external sales, according to a Monday report from Nikkei.

The stablecoin will function alongside traditional payment methods like credit cards. Sony expects the digital currency to reduce transaction fees paid to card networks while expanding payment flexibility for users purchasing digital content.

Sony Bank has partnered with U.S. stablecoin issuer Bastion to develop the project. Sony's venture arm participated in Bastion's $14.6 million funding round led by Coinbase Ventures, strengthening the #partnership between the two firms.

The bank established a dedicated Web3 subsidiary called BlockBloom in June with initial capital of 300 million yen ($1.9 million). The unit aims to create an ecosystem that connects fans, artists, #NFTs and both fiat and digital currencies, according to company statements.