Tanaka Precious Metals Co., Ltd. announced Thursday it will introduce a membership system for individual asset-based precious metal transactions [1].
The move signals a shift toward stricter regulatory compliance in the gold and silver markets. By requiring membership and official identification, the company aims to align its over-the-counter and online operations with global anti-money laundering standards.
The company plans to implement the membership system across all individual asset transactions during 2027 [1]. As part of this transition, the firm will use the Japanese government's "My Number" cards for identity verification during face-to-face transactions [1].
This policy change follows a period of rapid growth in the company's digital sector. The number of new members for internet-compatible services has increased approximately fourfold compared to 2023 [1]. A spokesperson for Tanaka Precious Metals said internet trading is increasing and showing great vitality [2].
Demographics of the company's client base are also shifting. The proportion of members aged 30 and younger rose from 23% in 2023 to 36% in 2026 [1]. This trend suggests a growing interest in precious metals as a hedge or investment among younger generations.
Company representatives said the goal is to strengthen anti-money laundering measures, and provide a smooth, consistent service [1]. The new system will be integrated across the company's headquarters in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, as well as its various storefronts and online platforms [1, 2].
“The number of new members for internet-compatible services has increased approximately fourfold compared to 2023.”
The transition to a mandatory membership model reflects the increasing scrutiny of precious metal markets as vehicles for illicit finance. By leveraging the My Number card system, Tanaka Precious Metals is digitizing the trust layer of physical asset trading. The surge in younger investors indicates that gold and silver are becoming mainstream digital-first assets, necessitating a more robust institutional framework to manage the volume and verify the identity of a new generation of traders.
