Japan Bank Lending Growth Strongest Since 2021

2026-01-12 23:55 By Chusnul Chotimah 1 min. read

Japan’s bank lending increased 4.4% in December 2025, accelerating from a downwardly revised 4.1% growth in November and exceeding market expectations of a 4.1% gain.

It marked the fastest growth since April 2021.

Total outstanding loans across major, regional, and shinkin banks reached ¥660.6 trillion.

Major banks led the expansion with a 5.7% increase, followed by regional banks at 4.1%.

Shinkin banks, local cooperative lenders serving small businesses and communities, recorded a more modest 1.4% rise, indicating softer credit demand in certain parts of the economy.



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Japan Bank Lending Growth Strongest Since 2021
Japan’s bank lending increased 4.4% in December 2025, accelerating from a downwardly revised 4.1% growth in November and exceeding market expectations of a 4.1% gain. It marked the fastest growth since April 2021. Total outstanding loans across major, regional, and shinkin banks reached ¥660.6 trillion. Major banks led the expansion with a 5.7% increase, followed by regional banks at 4.1%. Shinkin banks, local cooperative lenders serving small businesses and communities, recorded a more modest 1.4% rise, indicating softer credit demand in certain parts of the economy.
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