FAQ

What does the IBA Japan do?

IBA Japan represents the collective interests of its member international banks, securities firms, asset management firms, and associated companies operating in Japan. We engage with Japanese authorities and relevant stakeholders to contribute constructively to policy and regulatory discussions, with the aim of supporting a strong and efficient financial market.

IBA Japan also serves as a forum for members to exchange views and develop common positions on regulatory and market issues. Our activities include responding to public consultations, participating in government and industry working groups, and providing members with timely clarification on regulatory and legislative developments.

In addition, we offer a wide range of member services designed to enhance professional knowledge, support compliance readiness, and help members navigate Japan’s evolving regulatory environment

What are IBA Japan’s objectives?

IBA Japan aims to promote and support a strong and efficient financial sector in Japan by facilitating constructive dialogue between international financial institutions and Japanese authorities.  

When was IBA Japan formed?

IBA Japan was established in 1984 as an informal group of 12 foreign commercial banks. Today, the association comprises approximately 42 banks, 31 securities firms, 28 asset management firms, and 22 associate member firms. Since April 2013, IBA Japan has been incorporated as a general incorporated association (ippan shadan hojin) under Japanese law. 
Click here to learn more about our history.

Is IBA Japan part of a larger organisation?

No. IBA Japan is an organisation incorporated in Japan and represents the interests of its members based in Japan.

Where do IBA Japan’s members come from?

IBA Japan’s member firms are headquartered in 25 countries across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania.

Who can be a member of IBA Japan?

Foreign commercial banks, securities firms, and asset management firms licensed in Japan or with representative offices are eligible for IBA Japan membership. This includes foreign financial groups, commercial banks, securities companies, asset management firms, and bank, securities, and asset management company representative offices.

IBA Japan also has an associate membership category. Firms operating in areas such as law, accountancy, tax, credit rating, consulting, exchanges, and information technology that provide services to international financial institutions may apply for associate membership. 

What attracts foreign banks and securities companies to Japan?

Japan is a major global financial market and the world’s third-largest economy. It is home to one of the largest stock exchanges, one of the world’s largest government bond markets, significant institutional investors including major pension funds, and a large base of cash-rich corporates and personal wealth. Tokyo plays a central role as a domestic financial centre and an important source of global liquidity and investment.

In addition, current government policy has placed increased emphasis on developing Japan as an asset management centre, forming part of the broader environment in which foreign financial institutions operate

Is the regulatory environment different for foreign firms in Japan?

Japan’s financial regulatory framework is broadly aligned with international standards. Foreign financial institutions operating in Japan are subject to the same regulatory requirements as other regulated firms, in accordance with applicable laws and supervisory practices.

IBA Japan engages in dialogue with regulatory authorities and other stakeholders to support clarity, transparency, and mutual understanding of regulatory and supervisory expectations relevant to its members. 

Does IBA Japan play a role in global regulations and international financial policy?

IBA Japan engages in discussions on international regulatory developments where these are relevant to Japan’s financial markets.

IBA Japan established the Japan Financial Markets Council (JFMC) in 2012 as a forum for dialogue among international and domestic financial institutions on the implications of global regulatory reforms for Japanese financial markets. The IBA Japan secretariat acts as a proxy secretariat for the JFMC, supporting its coordination and information-sharing activities.

Through this role, IBA Japan facilitates dialogue with Japanese and international stakeholders, while the views expressed through the JFMC reflect the collective perspectives of participating institutions rather than the position of any individual firm.