Hokkoku Financial Holdings and Malaysian fintech firm Soft Space are set to launch a SoftPOS solution that will allow merchants in Japan to accept both contactless card and stablecoin payments using only an NFC-enabled Android smartphone or tablet.
Scheduled for launch in Q4 2025, it will reportedly be the first SoftPOS solution to support stablecoin payments in a real commercial setting while meeting global mobile payment security standards.
The initiative is part of Hokkoku’s efforts to build a “Super Cashless Region” by making digital payments more accessible and cost-effective in the Hokuriku area.
Powered by Soft Space’s Fasstap technology, the solution complies with the PCI MPoC standard, the latest global benchmark for secure mobile-based contactless payments.
Merchants can accept payments directly through the app, without needing additional hardware.
A key feature of the service is its integration with Tochika, a Japanese yen-backed stablecoin issued by Hokkoku Bank.
Consumers will be able to make payments using Tochituka, a mobile app developed for the stablecoin.
Tochika is issued in accordance with Japan’s revised Payment Services Act and is fully backed by deposit reserves.
The SoftPOS solution will also support major international card networks including Visa and JCB.
Shuji Tsuemura, President of Hokkoku FHD, said,
“Hokkoku FHD has continuously focused on promoting cashless and digital payments to drive innovative productivity improvements across the Hokuriku region.
We are delighted to collaborate with Soft Space to introduce an innovative touch-first payment service.”
Joel Tay, CEO of Soft Space, said,
“We’re incredibly proud to support Hokkoku Financial Holdings in launching this groundbreaking solution. This is more than just a mobile payment tool — it’s a real-world example of how digital currency can be used by everyday merchants and consumers.
With just a smartphone, businesses can now accept both traditional and next-generation payments in a simple and secure way.”
