Sony Group, a global conglomerate known for its substantial presence in electronics, gaming, and entertainment, has taken a bold step into the crypto exchange market through the acquisition of Amber Japan, a subsidiary of the international crypto finance company, Amber Group. This move, initially reported by Wu Blockchain, signifies Sony’s strategic expansion into the rapidly evolving Web3 and digital asset landscape.
Sony Goes Crypto
Previously operating under the name DeCurret, Amber Japan was acquired by Amber Group in 2022 and has now been renamed S.BLOX, following its acquisition by Sony. A press release on PR Times detailed the upcoming substantial enhancements to the platform, including a completely redesigned user interface and the development of a new mobile application, aimed at improving user accessibility and functionality.
The acquisition was finalized in August 2023 when Quetta Web Co., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony, took over the platform. This strategic acquisition follows a tumultuous period for Amber Group, which faced significant challenges after the collapse of the crypto exchange FTX. Despite these hurdles, Sony’s move to rebrand the service to S.BLOX is a clear indication of its commitment to not only entering but also innovating within the space.
As part of its integration strategy, Sony plans to leverage its broad network of businesses to enhance the crypto trading services provided by S.BLOX. The integration aims to foster synergies between Sony’s existing technology and entertainment ecosystems and the newly acquired trading platform. However, the specific launch date for the revamped S.BLOX crypto exchange remains under wraps, suggesting a meticulously planned rollout to ensure alignment with Sony’s high standards and strategic objectives.
Moreover, Sony’s foray into blockchain technology isn’t limited to crypto trading. The conglomerate has been exploring the implementation of blockchain and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) within its gaming division for several years. In 2022, Sony filed a patent for a “NFT Framework for Transferring and Using Digital Assets Between Games Platforms.” This framework outlines a system that facilitates the use of NFTs across different gaming platforms, featuring innovative concepts such as NFT-locked gameplay and rewards for players with unique digital assets.
The leadership of the new crypto initiative will include key figures from the blockchain industry, such as Sota Watanabe, founder and CEO of Startale Labs. Watanabe disclosed via a post on X that an external director from Startale will head Sony’s new exchange, indicating a strategic alignment with experienced leaders in the blockchain sector to guide Sony’s efforts.
This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by Sony to diversify its business and maintain its competitiveness in the digital age. With a market value already exceeding $100 billion, Sony’s entry into the crypto exchange market could not only diversify its revenue streams but also enhance its positioning as a leader in digital innovation.
At press time, BTC traded at $62,835.
