In recent years, Japanese investment companies have played an increasingly important role in the global financial markets. As the world’s third largest economy, Japan is home to some of the biggest asset management and investment firms globally. In this article, we will provide an overview of the major Japanese investment companies, as well as a list of their publicly traded stocks and relevant stock information for investors interested in the Japanese investment sector.

Nomura Holdings – A leading Japanese financial services group
Nomura Holdings (NYSE: NMR) is one of the big three securities companies in Japan alongside Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group. It provides investment banking, brokerage, asset management and other financial services worldwide. Nomura is a highly diversified group, with retail, wholesale and investment banking divisions. Its stock is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange and other major global exchanges. As a prominent Japanese investment firm with global reach, Nomura Holdings is a noteworthy stock for investors looking to gain exposure in this sector.
Daiwa Securities Group – Major retail and institutional brokerage services
Daiwa Securities Group (TSE: 8601) is the second largest securities brokerage firm in Japan. It provides comprehensive financial services including retail broking, investment banking, institutional sales and trading and asset management services. The company has expanded beyond its domestic Japanese market, with operations across Asia, Europe and Americas. For investors seeking Japanese brokerage stocks, Daiwa Securities is a major name alongside Nomura Holdings. Its shares trade on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Sony Financial Holdings – Investment and insurance services arm of Sony
Sony Financial Holdings (TSE: 8729) is the financial services subsidiary of global technology giant Sony. It was established in 2004 to oversee Sony’s financial services businesses including life insurance, non-life insurance, banking and securities brokerage operations. Sony Financial Holdings provides a range of investment and insurance products and services targeted at the retail market. For investors looking to invest alongside Sony in financial services, Sony Financial Holdings provides a stock option on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Orix – Diversified financial services conglomerate
Orix (TSE: 8591) is one of Japan’s largest diversified financial services groups engaging in leasing, lending, investment banking, asset management and other businesses globally. Founded in 1964, Orix operates an extensive international network spanning over 30 countries. It serves retail, corporate and institutional clients. Orix Corporation’s shares are listed on the Tokyo and New York Stock Exchanges. For investors seeking exposure to Japan’s diverse finance sector, Orix provides a stock investment option across major global markets.
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group – Largest bank in Japan
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (NYSE: MUFG) is Japan’s largest financial services company, with commercial banking, trust banking, securities, credit cards, consumer finance and asset management operations. Its banking arm, MUFG Bank, is Japan’s largest bank by assets. MUFG’s securities unit, Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities, is one of the country’s largest investment banking and brokerage firms. MUFG holds a controlling stake in Morgan Stanley following capital investments. MUFG’s shares trade in Tokyo and New York. The company offers investors looking to invest in Japan’s banking sector an established stock option on major exchanges.
In summary, major Japanese investment firms like Nomura, Daiwa, Sony Financial, Orix and Mitsubishi UFJ are noteworthy options for investors seeking exposure to Japan’s financial services and investment sector. Their publicly listed stocks provide accessible investment exposure to this market segment. With strong domestic and global operations, these companies reflect the growing prominence of Japanese investment firms worldwide.