The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan Financial Services Agency (JFSA) have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen financial sector development across Asia and the Pacific. The agreement, signed by ADB President Masato Kanda and JFSA Commissioner Yutaka Ito in Tokyo, aims to help emerging economies in the region leverage technology for financial inclusion, deepen capital markets, and build more resilient and stable financial systems.
ADB President Kanda highlighted the importance of open trade and robust financial institutions in fostering sustainable economic growth and resilience to external shocks. He emphasized that through this collaboration, ADB and JFSA will work to connect global investors with Asia’s expanding growth opportunities, creating a continuous cycle of long-term capital investment that supports regional prosperity.
The signing took place during the Asia Day event at Japan Weeks 2025, where Kanda delivered a keynote address on unlocking Asia’s vast financial market potential. He noted that market-based financing accounts for only 14% of total corporate debt in Asia, underscoring the need for deeper, better-connected capital markets. With trillions of dollars in untapped investment potential, he stressed that collective regional and global efforts are vital to mobilize institutional investors and strengthen market frameworks.
Kanda further reiterated ADB’s catalytic role in developing Asia’s financial systems through strengthening financial institutions, enhancing market infrastructure, and promoting sustainable finance that channels regional savings into productive investments.
ADB continues to play a central role in advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth throughout Asia and the Pacific. By fostering innovation, expanding partnerships, and investing in quality infrastructure, ADB helps member countries address development challenges and accelerate progress toward long-term prosperity.
