TOKYO AIM Inc., ("TOKYO AIM") today approved six securities firms to operate as 'Japanese Nominated Advisers' (J-Nomads) on the new market:
Daiwa Securities SMBC Co. Ltd.
Mitsubishi UFJ Securities Co., Ltd.
Mizuho Investors Securities Co., Ltd.
Mizuho Securities Co., Ltd.
Nikko Citigroup Limited
Nomura Securities Co., Ltd.
(alphabetical
order)
Tetsutaro Muraki, President and CEO of TOKYO AIM, said: "We are delighted to announce the first group of J-NOMADs based on the formal applications we have received. Reaching this crucial milestone means that companies can now start to prepare listing applications for the new market. J-NOMADs will be an integral part of the effective operation of TOKYO AIM, and we will build this exciting new stock exchange in partnership with them. We look forward to working closely with the J-NOMADs to welcome companies from Japan and the region with strong growth potential, providing them with a venue to raise much needed capital from professional investors."
David Shrimpton, Chairman of Tokyo AIM, said: "The J-Nomads announced today include some of Japan's leading securities houses. We are grateful for their close involvement and support throughout the development of TOKYO AIM and believe it provides a strong indication of their confidence in the potential of the market model. This market represents a unique opportunity in the region for issuers and advisers. As the market continues to develop, we expect to see the network of international participants expand further."
J-Nomads are corporate finance advisers approved by TOKYO AIM. Their role is integral to the TOKYO AIM regulatory model and central to preserving the reputation and integrity of the market. Any company wishing to list on TOKYO AIM must appoint a J-Nomad who will manage the admission process. The J-Nomad will also confirm the overall appropriateness and suitability of the company to list on the market. Companies are obliged to retain a J-Nomad at all times while on TOKYO AIM, and to work closely with the J-Nomad who will provide the company and its directors with advice and guidance in respect of ongoing compliance with the TOKYO AIM rules.