Japan Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) Issues World First Digital Inclusion Social Bond with $500 Million USD Digital Inclusion Bond for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, $500 Million Bond Will be Allocated to Digital Inclusion Eligible Social Projects under SMFG / SMBC Social Finance Framework, World Bank IFC (International Finance Corporation) is Anchor Investor
14th February 2026 | Hong Kong
Japan Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) has issued the world’s first digital inclusion social bond with $500 million USD Digital Inclusion Bond for micro, small & medium enterprises. The $500 million bond will be allocated to Digital Inclusion Eligible Social Projects under SMFG / SMBC Social Finance Framework. World Bank IFC (International Finance Corporation) is anchor investor. Announcement (13/2/26): “Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. (Group CEO: Toru Nakashima; hereafter, “SMBC Group” collectively refers to our group companies) issued a U.S. dollar–denominated Digital Inclusion Bond (the “Bond”) in overseas markets. This Bond represents a sustainability-related financing initiative, and it marks the first issuance of its kind in the world dedicated to the theme of “Digital Inclusion”. Digital Inclusion refers to the concept of ensuring that every person, regardless of attributes such as race, place of residence, income, or family environment, can safely and freely access and utilize digital technologies. Today, approximately 33% of the global population is still unable to access the Internet due to factors such as insufficient telecommunication infrastructure, the high cost of devices, and its connectivity. This highlights the need for continued infrastructure development and technological innovation. The issuance of this Bond is expected to expand new financing approaches aimed at social value creation. Funds raised through the Bond will be allocated to Digital Inclusion Eligible Social Projects under the SMFG/SMBC’s Social Finance Framework (※1). Use of Proceeds include projects for financial inclusion such as digital loans in emerging markets, for development of basic telecommunication infrastructure to expand digital services, and for enhancing healthcare, education, and vocational training. The Bond aligns with ICMA’s Social Bond Principles 2025 (※2), Japan FSA’s Social Bond Guidelines 2021(※3), and the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s Guidebook to Digital Inclusion Bond Financing(※4). SMBC Group has identified the key priority issues including “Environment”, “DE&I & Human Rights”, “Poverty & Inequality”, “Declining Birthrate & Aging Population”, and “Japan’s Regrowth” in its pursuit of social value creation. Through issuance of this Bond, the Group aims to contribute to an inclusive society by addressing the digital divide. Additionally, SMBC will continue to capture business opportunities in the fast- growing digital sector and advance digital financial services.”
“ Japan Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) Issues World First Digital Inclusion Social Bond with $500 Million USD Digital Inclusion Bond for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, $500 Million Bond Will be Allocated to Digital Inclusion Eligible Social Projects under SMFG / SMBC Social Finance Framework, World Bank IFC (International Finance Corporation) is Anchor Investor “
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Japan Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) Issues World First Digital Inclusion Social Bond with $500 Million USD Digital Inclusion Bond for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, $500 Million Bond Will be Allocated to Digital Inclusion Eligible Social Projects under SMFG / SMBC Social Finance Framework, World Bank IFC (International Finance Corporation) is Anchor Investor
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