In April 2025, SMBC announced that if a company suffers a loss of a certain scale due to a natural disaster, etc. A new type of loan that exempts you from repayment of loans We are pleased to announce the introduction of the following:
This system goes beyond mere financial support and provides a way for companies to Measures to improve business continuity (BCP) It is also attracting attention as a groundbreaking initiative from the perspective of integrating sustainable management (SDGs) and finance.
Significance of Disaster Response as a New Financial Scheme
In recent years, the risk of disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and torrential rains has increased, and the impact of interruptions in corporate activities and damage to infrastructure on the economy has become more serious.
Under these circumstances, companies are also Financing Strategies Incorporating Disaster Risk We have entered an era in which we are required to do so.
The system introduced by SMBC has the following features:
- If more than a certain amount of damage is confirmed at the time of the disaster, Repayment forgiveness (exemption conditions apply)
- At the time of loan screening BCP (Business Continuity Plan) and regional cooperation are also taken into account.
- Positioned as an SDGs loan and a part of sustainable finance
Meets the "Business Continuity Enhancement Act" of companies
It has a high affinity with the "Business Continuity Enhancement Plan (Small and Medium Enterprise Agency)" promoted by the government, and for companies that have received BCP certification and small and medium-sized enterprises that are conducting disaster drills, etc. Benefits that make it easier to receive financial support There is.
In addition, cooperation with regional banks and local governments is also being considered. Contributing to the improvement of disaster response capabilities of the entire region It is expected to be.
Integration of SDGs management and resilience investment
This system is not only a disaster relief aspect. A system for evaluating companies that are sustainable even in times of disaster It is also.
For example, the following management policies may be evaluated:
- Conclusion of Disaster Cooperation Agreements with Local Communities
- Introduction of renewable energy and distributed generation
- Preparation of evacuation drills and recovery manuals
In other words, this loan is A new measure of SDGs management from the perspective of financial institutions It can also be.
Ripple effect on the entire financial industry and future prospects
SMBC's efforts may spread to other megabanks and regional banks in the future.
In regions particularly affected by natural disasters, **Business continuity × financial risk response** are expected to become mainstream.
In addition, future developments include:
- Strengthening Cooperation with ESG Assessments
- Securitization of receivables and hybridization with insurance
- Connectivity to International Sustainable Finance Standards
A more complex and advanced financial support model is assumed.
Summary|New finance in the era of living with disasters
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation's "Disaster Repayment Forgiveness Loan" is not just a disaster prevention measure. Financial tools to protect the future of management It is attracting attention as.
Companies of the future will need to have a system that is not afraid of risk, but rather can prepare for risk and respond flexibly.
This system is an advanced initiative to meet the demands of such times. A new financial model originating in Japan, a disaster-prone country It is expected to develop in the future.
