Uniswap partners with SMBC Nikko to build Japan-compliant trading venue by mid-2027

Uniswap: Uniswap is the world's largest decentralized exchange protocol, enabling permissionless token trading via automated market makers across multiple blockchains. Its v4 version introduces hooks that allow custom logic, such as compliance features, to be embedded directly into liquidity pools. Uniswap Labs is supporting SMBC Nikko on protocol integration and liquidity deployment for a Japan-compliant trading venue targeted for mid-2027 launch. SMBC Nikko: SMBC Nikko Securities Inc. is a leading Japanese securities firm and subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group that provides brokerage, investment banking, and asset management services. It established a dedicated DeFi Technology Department in early 2026 to explore cryptocurrency and onchain business opportunities. In this development, SMBC Nikko is co-leading the DeFi Gateway project, managing regulatory dialogue with Japan's Financial Services Agency, and contributing compliance and risk-modeling expertise for custom liquidity pools on Uniswap. Uniswap Labs: Uniswap Labs, operating as Universal Navigation Inc., serves as a core contributor to the Uniswap Protocol and develops tools, interfaces, and infrastructure for decentralized trading. The firm provides technical expertise in protocol design, liquidity strategies, and ecosystem integrations. In this initiative, Uniswap Labs is advising SMBC Nikko on integration details and liquidity deployment to ensure the new venue meets Japan's regulatory standards. Regulatory Compliance: The DeFi Gateway will use Uniswap v4 hooks to embed AML, counterterrorism financing, and investor protection controls directly into liquidity pools for Japanese investors. Institutional Adoption: Major traditional finance players in Japan are collaborating with global DeFi protocol developers and infrastructure providers to create regulated onchain access points.