History
A rich history underscores purpose, potential, and prosperity
Our company was built on long-lasting relationships and trust—earned through an unshakable foundation and shared success. A steadfast commitment to honor runs through everyone in our organization.
More than 400 years of endless growth and stability
From our roots as Japanese merchants to our present as an international financial firm, SMBC boasts more than four centuries of integrity and innovation. More than a hundred years ago, we bravely ventured to the Americas, bringing along our focus on long-lasting relationships and tradition of honorable service. Our people have continued to earn trust, while forging a path of innovation for the stakeholders we serve.
1590
The Sumitomo family business opens
Masatomo Sumitomo, a native of Kyoto, started a copper-refining business and established industrial capital integrating copper-mine development, refining and export.
1673
The Mitsui family business opens
Takatoshi Mitsui opened Echigoya, a high-volume kimono retail store—perhaps the world’s first and largest in terms of space and employees—in Edo, present-day Tokyo.
1674-1875
The Mitsui and Sumitomo families expand capabilities
Mitsui and Sumitomo strengthened their capabilities in imports and exports, finance, transportation, and manufacturing to become two of the top business names in Japan.
1876
Mitsui Bank established
The Mitsui family established Mitsui Bank, the first private sector bank in Japan.
1895
Sumitomo Bank established
The Sumitomo family established Sumitomo Bank in Osaka with the capitalization of one million yen.
1916
San Francisco Branch of Sumitomo Bank opens
The first commercial bank from Japan to open a branch overseas.
1918
Japan established its New York Agency (converted to Branch status 1922)
Expanding its footprint in the Americas.
1922
New York Branch of Mitsui Bank opens
Expanding its footprint in the Americas.
1957
Brazil subsidiary of Sumitomo Bank opens
Entering one of the most dynamic emerging markets in the world.
1981
Manufacturers Bank joins Mitsui Bank
To serve middle market and small business clients.
1988
Los Angeles Branch of Sumitomo Bank opens
Expanding its footprint in the Americas.
1990
Mitsui Bank merges with Taiyo Kobe Bank
To form Mitsui Taiyo Kobe Bank.
1992
Mitsui Taiyo Kobe Bank renamed Sakura Bank
The Sakura brand is highly complementary with strength in Eastern Japan.
2001
Sakura Bank and Sumitomo Bank merge
To form Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.
2002
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group established
To enhance governance and strengthen strategic businesses of the group.
2007
Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing formed
To expand business into finance and leasing space.
2009
Nikko Cordial Securities (now SMBC Nikko Securities) joins SMFG
Well respected broker-dealer added to world-wide capability.
2010
SMFG listed on New York Stock Exchange
In a pivotal move, SMFG’s shares start trading on Wall Street.
2013
SMBC Rail Services joins SMBC
Expanding the leasing and equipment space to SMBC.
2017
American Railcar Leasing, of the United States, joins SMFG
SMFG completes American Railcar Leasing acquisition.