Malaysia-based fintech firm Soft Space and Japan-based Hokkoku Financial Holdings (Hokkoku FHD) have teamed up to launch the next-generation SoftPOS solution that enables merchants to accept both contactless card payments and, for the first time, regulated stablecoin payments — using only a smartphone or tablet.

This will be the world’s first deployment of a SoftPOS solution 1 , certified under global mobile payment security standards, that supports stablecoin transactions in a
real commercial setting, the duo said in a statement on Tuesday.

The new service supports Hokkoku’s mission to create a Super Cashless Region, making digital payments more accessible and cost-effective across the Hokuriku area.

Merchants can accept payments without installing special hardware — all they need is an Android device with the payment app installed.

A key innovation of the service is support for Tochika, Hokkoku Bank’s Japanese yen deposit-backed stablecoin. Consumers can use Tochituka, a mobile app developed for
the stablecoin, to make fast and secure payments to participating merchants.

Tochika is issued in compliance with Japan’s revised Payment Services Act and is fully backed by deposit reserves.

The SoftPOS solution is powered by Soft Space’s proprietary Fasstap technology and complies with the PCI MPoC (Mobile Payments on COTS) security standard, the latest global benchmark for mobile-based contactless payments.

By eliminating the need for physical payment terminals, it helps merchants reduce cost and operational overhead while expanding access to digital payments.

“Hokkoku FHD has continuously focused on promoting cashless and digital payments to drive innovative productivity improvements across the Hokuriku region，

“We are delighted to collaborate with Soft Space to introduce an innovative touch-first payment service，” said Shuji Tsuemura, President of Hokkoku FHD.

Joel Tay, Chief Executive Officer of Soft Space, added that the solution is more than just a mobile payment tool — it’s a real-world example of how digital currency can be used by everyday merchants and consumers.

“With just a smartphone, businesses can now accept both traditional and next-generation payments in a simple and secure way,” he added.

The service is scheduled to launch in Autumn 2025 and will support major international card networks such as Visa and JCB along with Tochika stablecoin payments.

Founded in 2012, Soft Space is a fintech player headquartered in Kuala Lumpur.

Serving over 90 financial institutions and partners across 30 global markets, Soft Space offers both merchants and consumers a range of solutions, ranging from contactless payments through mobile devices to comprehensive white-label e-wallet services.

Hokkoku FHD is a financial holding company that offers a wide range of services as a “next-generation regional integrated company.”

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