OREANDA-NEWS. Aozora Bank, Ltd. announced that it had conducted a survey of its financial institution and corporate customers through its think tank subsidiary, Aozora Regional Consulti ng Co., Ltd., related to customer sentiment about the change in economic conditions last year.

In comparison with general surveys by think tanks and other organizations, the Aozora survey had the following three distinctive characteristics:
1. Survey of both financial institution customers and corporate customers
The results of this survey of both financial institution and corporate customers allowed the Bank to shed light on the current multi-faceted relationship between the country’s industries and finance.

2. Encompassing regional financial in stitutions throughout the country
The survey was conducted among Aozora customers throughout the country (regional banks, second tier regional banks, shinkin banks, credit unions, and agricultural cooperatives), and encompassed financial institutions that play an important role in regional finance.

3. Timely setting of themes
The survey process, including the design, implementation, collation of responses, analysis, and announcement can require a great deal of time, even if particular themes are set; however, the Aozora Bank Group fully leveraged its flexibility and announced the results of its survey with in a month of commencement.

Business sentiment focusing on customers’ own company is improving. Over 30% of companies have a bright outlook for the future. The view that things at least will not get worse is held by the remaining approximately 70%.

In terms of the regions in which companies responded that business conditions would improve, Tohoku and Kanto were significantly above average.

In terms of the industries in which companies responded that capex would increase, medical welfare was significantly above average.

Employment is improving. Over 30% of companies stated that they were considering increasing their hiring. The remaining approximately 70% stated the view that at the very least they would not decrease their workforce.

In terms of the regions in which companies responded that employment had increased, Tohoku, Kanto and Shikoku were significantly above average.

In terms of the industries in which companies responded that they would increase employment, real estate, medical welfare, and services for individuals significantly exceeded the average.

Summary
- While the outlook of companies in terms of the direction of the economy is bright, they are also adopting a wait and see position for the time being. - While the overall tone is bright, the proportion of companies that have a positive future vision will need to increase in order for further progress to be made towards strong improvement.

Aozora Bank continues to make proposals that are the best fit for its customers as the ‘Primary Secondary Bank: Another Reliable Partner’. The results of this survey have revealed that a large number of customers are doing their utmost to solve their management issues as they aim to make strong improvements to their business. Aozora is committed to providing full support in solving these issues as a partner to its customers.