Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi Denies Any Connection to Cryptocurrency “Sanae Token”
March 4, 2026 — Tokyo
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has publicly denied any involvement with a cryptocurrency named “Sanae Token” that features her likeness and name. The token was recently introduced on the website of the “Japan Is Back Project,” sparking confusion and concern among the public.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on March 2, Prime Minister Takaichi emphatically stated that she “knows nothing” about the crypto asset and has not authorized its use or creation in any capacity. She expressed her decision to issue the statement was motivated by a desire to prevent the public from being misled by the cryptocurrency bearing her name.
The cryptocurrency, Sanae Token, reportedly went on sale on February 25 as part of a project involving entrepreneur Yuji Mizoguchi. According to the official website and accompanying materials, the project claims that the token “will deliver users’ voices to Takaichi and other policymakers ‘as the voice of the people,’ to be used as a reference for policy formulation.”
However, the Financial Services Agency (FSA), Japan’s financial regulatory body, has launched an investigation amid suspicions that the sale of Sanae Token is occurring without the legally required registration. Under current FSA guidelines, operating a cryptocurrency exchange business—including selling cryptocurrencies or trading them for other digital assets—requires formal registration with the agency. The company behind Sanae Token is reportedly unregistered and has not passed scrutiny by any industry self-regulatory organization.
If the FSA confirms the lack of registration, it is expected to demand registration from the operator or, should the operator refuse to comply, seek to halt sales of the cryptocurrency.
This development highlights ongoing regulatory challenges in Japan’s cryptocurrency market as the government strives to ensure investor protection and compliance with legal frameworks.
Background on Sanae Token and Japan Is Back Project
The Japan Is Back Project, associated with the launch of Sanae Token, is presented as an initiative aimed at enhancing dialogue between citizens and policymakers. The project suggests that token holders’ input could influence policy decisions. However, the prime minister’s denial of any connection with the cryptocurrency has cast doubt on the legitimacy and official standing of the initiative.
Financial Services Agency’s Role
Japan’s FSA has been vigilant in monitoring cryptocurrency activities to safeguard consumers and uphold the integrity of financial markets. Registration requirements for cryptocurrency exchanges help ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to anti-money laundering regulations. The agency’s investigation into Sanae Token underscores its commitment to enforcing these standards.
Public Advisory
Prime Minister Takaichi has cautioned the public to exercise vigilance with regard to the cryptocurrency, emphasizing that she has not endorsed or authorized Sanae Token. Investors and users are advised to thoroughly verify the legitimacy of crypto assets and projects, particularly those that appear to use the names or images of public figures without consent.
As the probe unfolds, updates from the Financial Services Agency and official government communications are expected to provide further clarity on the status and legality of the Sanae Token.
Reported by Daiki Koga and Toshiki Horigome, The Asahi Shimbun