Minor Investors Welcome: Japan Ponders Over Permitting NISA Use for Underage Citizens

The Japanese government is considering a policy amendment to allow minors to use the NISA (Nippon Individual Savings Account) investment system. If approved, it would open up avenues for the younger generation to invest in stocks and other assets. This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage finance literacy among young people and foster a culture of early investing.

In Japan, financial literacy education is becoming increasingly prioritized, and this consideration is seen as a step in that direction. Presently, only individuals aged 20 and above can open a NISA, making it unavailable to minors. By opening NISA to underage citizens, the government hopes to instill investment knowledge and skills at a younger age.

In the US and EU, minors can invest in stocks under custodial accounts supervised by adults. This Japanese proposal aligns with these practices and seeks to foster financial independence and awareness among younger citizens.

Information for Your Country

For residents outside Japan interested in international investing, brokerage firms like Interactive Brokers or Fidelity International offer access to global markets including Japan.