Japan

As Japan puts an end to the global negative interest rate era, its central bank's QE programme remains in place and may be a model for peers. Investors maintain a bullish outlook on the stock market.

Stock market reform has not only revitalized the country's capital markets but has also permeated the real economy. Countries like Korea are quickly following suit. Interestingly, China also seems to be drawing inspiration.

Many factors explain Japan’s renewed allure to global corporate and financial institutions. Inbound FDI is rising, with local stock prices regularly hitting record highs. Is the economy’s long-awaited renaissance a passing phase or here to stay?

Following a notable period of growth for Japan’s largest bank by customers, Rakuten Bank wins the best bank for digital solutions award this year.

MUFG Bank is Japan’s best bank for corporates after a period of impressive financial achievement. It has made investments to help foster the development of the country’s startup culture and to help improve sustainability among its corporate community.

After a period that saw the bank achieve solid market share in all core parts of its investment banking business in Japan, Morgan Stanley is named best investment bank in the country this year.

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation has backed initiatives to support the elderly and the young and to improve education among those who struggle to access it in the country. It is named best bank for corporate social responsibility in Japan this year.

For underwriting a range of sustainable debt financings and an equity deal over the awards period, Morgan Stanley wins Japan’s best bank for environmental, social and governance this year.

Resona Group wins best bank for small and medium-sized enterprises this year. It rivals the country’s larger banks in terms of the scale of its loan portfolio to the segment and its commitment to these businesses through various products and services.