Crédit Agricole CIB supports the first digital inclusion bond for SMFG

The 6-year (NC5) senior unsecured transaction, which priced on February 3, 2026, attracted overwhelming demand from investors with a final order book exceeding USD 2.1 billion, representing more than 4.3 times oversubscription.

The innovative structure of the bond was designed to address a critical gap in global financial infrastructure, proceeds will be used to finance digital loans for micro, small, and medium enterprises, specifically targeting underserved populations without traditional banking access in developing countries. By financing digital assets that enable the community’s participation in the formal financial system, the bond goes beyond conventional financial inclusion to unlock broader economic participation for those historically excluded from mainstream banking.

The bond is the first to align with the World Economic Forum’s guidebook to Digital Inclusion Bond Financing published in 2021. It is also aligned with the Social Bond Principles (SBP) from the International Capital Market Association (ICMA).

The transaction follows SMBC, SMFG’s main banking subsidy, publishing its inaugural social finance framework in July, which specifically identified ‘digital inclusion’ social projects, including those focused on access to essential services in healthcare and education, as well as basic infrastructure.

Crédit Agricole CIB served as joint bookrunner, reinforcing the bank's leading position in the sustainable bond market and its commitment to financing solutions that address global development challenges.