FX.co ★ Japan Bank Lending Growth Hits Near 5-Year High

In January 2026, Japan experienced a 4.5% year-on-year increase in bank lending, slightly exceeding the previous month's 4.4% rise and aligning with market predictions. This marks the most rapid growth since April 2021. The cumulative outstanding loans from major, regional, and shinkin banks totaled ¥663.8 trillion. Leading this growth, major banks reported a 5.8% increase, followed by regional banks at 4.1%. Shinkin banks, which are local cooperative institutions supporting small businesses and local communities, had a more moderate increase of 1.4%, indicative of softer credit demand in certain economic sectors.