#Japan #Tokyo #Asteria #OpenLoop #JPYC Gateway

Partnership Announcement: Asteria and Howdy Crypto

Asteria, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has teamed up with Howdy Crypto, based in Chuo, Tokyo, to enhance stablecoin transactions within Japan. This strategic partnership involves Asteria's JPYC Gateway, a service designed for corporate handling of deposits and withdrawals in the JPYC stablecoin, alongside Howdy Crypto's innovative hardware wallet, Openloop. This collaboration aims to provide secure management for digital assets and fast-track corporate implementation of Japanese yen-backed stablecoins.

Background of the Collaboration

The emergence of the JPYC stablecoin is set to revolutionize the financial landscape, with its issuance forecasted to begin in October 2025 and a market size projection of ¥30 trillion by 2030. However, as businesses begin to adopt stablecoins, ensuring the secure management of private keys becomes paramount. Any leaks or unauthorized access to these keys can lead to severe business risks. Currently, most available hardware wallets are internationally produced, creating a need in the Japanese market for reliable devices that are developed and supported domestically, adapting flexibly to the market’s evolving landscape.

To address this gap, Asteria and Howdy Crypto have forged a partnership that aims to enable companies to utilize JPYC safely and effectively through robust security measures.

Overview of the Business Collaboration

The partnership will focus on several key initiatives:

• - Integration of Hardware Wallets: The JPYC Gateway will connect with the Openloop hardware wallet to ensure a secure environment for key management. During transaction processes, users will verify transaction details on the device's touchscreen before cryptographically signing, preventing unauthorized transactions.

• - Launch Campaign for Businesses: As part of the introductory offering, the first 100 companies to adopt the JPYC Gateway will receive the Openloop wallet free of charge. This initiative supports businesses in setting up a secure digital wallet environment from the get-go.

• - Development of Best Practices for Businesses: Both Asteria and Howdy Crypto will collaborate to create and share best practices for utilizing stablecoins in a corporate environment.

Details on JPYC Gateway

The JPYC Gateway is positioned as an efficient solution for companies managing JPYC transactions. It features low transaction fees of just ¥8 per transfer—significantly lower than typical banking fees—and integrates seamlessly with existing ERP and accounting systems through Asteria Warp's no-code capabilities.

Launch Date

• - Expected Availability: April 1, 2026

Target Audience

• - Suitable For: Corporations

Pricing Structure

• - Base Fee: ¥98,000 per month
• - Transaction Fees: ¥8 per transaction (standard plan)

Supported Stablecoins

• - Available Now: JPYC (additional coins to be supported in due course)

Website for More Information

JPYC Gateway

Information on Openloop Hardware Wallet

Developed from the ground up by Howdy Crypto, Openloop is a domestic hardware wallet engineered to securely hold private keys offline. Its EAL6+ certified secure element protects the master key, and through its unique 'DualSecure' technology, two independent chips encrypt the seed, ensuring safety even in the event of a chip breach.

The wallet features an intuitive design with a touchscreen, is battery-operated, and provides voice feedback—ideal for both individuals and corporations. Openloop supports various connectivity options including Air Gap (QR codes), USB, and Bluetooth, allowing flexible use according to security policies.

Technical Specifications

• - Size: 54mm x 54mm x 15mm
• - Weight: Approximately 50g
• - Display: 2.0-inch IPS LCD (320x240), touchscreen supported
• - Secure Element: NXP SE050 (EAL6+ certified)

Softwares Supported

• - Stablecoins: JPYC, USDT, USDC, DAI, BUSD, TUSD, FRAX, and others
• - Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, TRON, among 2,600 cryptocurrencies
• - Network Compatibility: Over 220 networks, including EVM-compatible chains
• - Languages Supported: Japanese / English

Free Offering for Early Adopters

Eligibility: Corporations that sign up for the JPYC Gateway's standard plan (first 100 companies)

• - Openloop hardware wallet: One unit provided free of charge
• - Provision Timing: Expected around summer 2026
• - Application Period: Starting April 1, 2026, until reaching 100 companies
• - Application Method: Apply upon signing the JPYC Gateway contract

Future Developments

Through this partnership, Asteria and Howdy Crypto seek to strengthen the foundation for safe stablecoin utilization within enterprises. Asteria will leverage its robust ecosystem built around ASTERIA Warp, while Howdy Crypto will utilize Openloop’s secure technology to develop payment infrastructures compatible with the AI-driven future.

(Note: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.)

About Asteria Corporation

Asteria operates under the ethos of connecting individuals and enterprises through innovative software solutions. Its flagship product, ASTERIA Warp, is a no-code tool that enables integration of diverse systems and cloud data, adopted by over 10,000 businesses. Moreover, Asteria participates in several innovation initiatives, including establishing organizations aimed at promoting blockchain technology.

About Howdy Crypto

Established in February 2026 as a group company of Howdy, Howdy Crypto focuses on enhancing Japan through hardware and AI. Their motto emphasizes the evolution of cryptocurrency wallets into connectors between people and AI, leading to the development of Openloop, which is built to swiftly adapt to changing regulatory landscapes and market requirements.