SMBC targets green debt expansion via Climate Bonds Initiative deal

It also said that certain categories in its finance framework are aligned with the Climate Bonds’ criteria.

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and SMBC Nikko Securities have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Climate Bonds Initiative to cooperate on sustainable financing activities.

The MOU will see the three entities cooperate towards a “sound, credible, and sustainable development of markets for financing activities that contribute to climate change adaptation and resilience,” the Japanese megabank said in a statement on 25 September 2026.

The three companies plan to exchange views and explore potential initiatives to promote financing for projects tied to climate change adaptation and resilience.

They will also share information, knowledge and expertise, and exchange views on domestic and international principles, standards, taxonomies, certification approaches,

Separately, SMBC said that it has obtained confirmation from Climate Bonds Initiative that certain categories under its SMBC Sustainable Finance Framework are aligned with the relevant Climate Bonds criteria for climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.

SMBC and SMBC Nikko said that they will work to enhance the credibility and transparency of financing activities that contribute to climate change adaptation and resilience.