Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) was established in April 2001 through the merger of two leading banks: The Sakura Bank, Limited, and The Sumitomo Bank, Limited. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc., was established in December 2002 through a stock transfer as a bank holding company, and SMBC became a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMFG. In March 2003, SMBC merged with the Wakashio Bank, Ltd. SMBC’s competitive advantages include a strong customer base, the quick implementation of strategies, and an extensive lineup of financial products and services that leverage the expertise of strategic Group companies in specialized areas. SMBC, as a core member of SMFG, works together with other members of the Group to offer customers highly sophisticated, comprehensive financial services.