Investigation Into Mizuho Securities: Press Conference By KATAYAMA Satsuki, Japan Minister Of Finance And Minister Of State For Financial Services

Regarding reports that the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission (SESC) is conducting an investigation into Mizuho Securities, could you update us on the current status and your policy response going forward? In addition, the SESC yesterday filed a criminal accusation with the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office against a former director of Mita Securities and others, on suspicion of insider trading. How do you view the situation of insider trading cases occurring one after another in the financial industry?

We are aware of the reports, but we do not usually comment on matters related to individual investigations, and we must refrain from doing so. We appreciate your understanding. From the standpoint of protecting investors, as a general matter, any instance of misconduct is highly regrettable. To prevent such incidents from recurring, we have put in place various laws and regulations, and the SESC acts under that framework. That is what we can say. As for individual cases, we have nothing to add at this time.