Nomura Contemplates Divesting Cryptocurrency Subsidiary Laser Digital Amid European Losses

Nomura Holdings Considers Divesting Cryptocurrency Subsidiary

Nomura Holdings, one of Japan's leading financial institutions, is reportedly considering divesting its cryptocurrency subsidiary, Laser Digital, amidst ongoing financial struggles in its European sector. This scrutiny comes after Nomura’s European operations have recorded a significant pretax loss of 7.4 billion yen (approximately $46.5 million) for the quarter ending on September 30, 2026, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of financial setbacks in that region. In stark contrast, other regions where Nomura operates reported pretax profits during this period.

About Laser Digital

Laser Digital, which was founded in 2022 and is based in Switzerland, specializes in providing services related to institutional cryptocurrency trading, asset management, and venture investments. The subsidiary has been actively trying to strengthen its presence in the crypto market, recently achieving a milestone by obtaining Japan's first new crypto exchange license in four years, facilitating its institutional trading services in the country. Furthermore, it is eyeing growth in the United States, having received initial backing from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency for a proposed national trust bank.

Future of Laser Digital

Though Nomura has initiated discussions with potential buyers, including Marex Group, it has not yet confirmed whether a sale will proceed or if they will choose to maintain ownership of Laser Digital. During a recent earnings call in January, the company's Chief Financial Officer, Hiroyuki Moriuchi, mentioned strategies to reduce exposure to cryptocurrency trading to mitigate short-term fluctuations, while also emphasizing a long-term vision for the growth of Laser Digital.

Broader Financial Context

The financial giant is not only grappling with its European losses but is also managing an extensive investment management division that oversees assets worth about 152.8 trillion yen (around $960 billion) as of September 2026. As Nomura navigates these challenges, the fate of Laser Digital remains uncertain, reflecting broader market volatility and the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency within the finance sector.